Positives Nicole Perlroth's book is widely praised as a highly readable and engaging exploration of global cyber warfare, often likened to a thriller. Reviewers consistently highlight its ability to make complex cybersecurity concepts, such as "zero day" vulnerabilities, accessible and understandable for a general audience. The book is commended for offering an illuminating and often frightening historical overview of hacking, the evolving market for digital vulnerabilities, and the rise of state-sponsored cyberattacks. Many found it well-researched, drawing on extensive interviews and investigative journalism, and appreciated how it effectively conveys the critical vulnerability of our interconnected digital society and infrastructure.
Negatives Despite its strengths, the book faces significant criticism regarding its structure and editing, with many readers finding it repetitive, disorganized, and overly long. Some reviewers felt the author's personal anecdotes and journalistic journey were overemphasized, at times detracting from the core subject matter. A notable point of contention among some is the author's perceived political bias, particularly a pro-American stance and critical views on specific US administrations, which some felt lacked nuance or objectivity. While generally praised for its accessibility, a segment of technical readers desired more in-depth technical analysis, and others found the writing style occasionally sensationalistic, bombastic, or reliant on stereotypes.
Conclusion Ultimately, the book is considered an important and sobering read, serving as a critical warning about the existential threat posed by the global cyber arms race. It is particularly recommended for lay readers and general audiences seeking an accessible and engaging introduction to the complex world of cybersecurity and its historical implications. However, readers who prefer a more concise, strictly objective, or highly technical analysis, or those sensitive to perceived political biases, might approach the book with caution.
