Guinn lingers longer on the botched mechanics of the federal government’s handling of the siege, along with the origins of the Branch Davidians and their leader, David Koresh.

Impressively researched and written with storytelling verve..

Gripping.

Substantial..

Guinn was uniquely suited to write this book, having previously written about Charles Manson and Jonestown. He is steeped in the apocalyptic lore that drives many cults.

Jeff Guinn skillfully examines this complex and terrible moment in American history.

Guinn focuses on the standoff and the myriad bad decisions by the ATF and the FBI, capably tracing a throughline to the increase in anti-government hate groups. Readers may be left wanting more on the provocative idea of Waco’s continued influence, but overall this is extremely well done and thought-provoking..

In riveting detail, Guinn describes the high-tension ordeal, drawing on a wealth of new information, including several eyewitness accounts. As the author did in previous reports on Charles Manson and Jonestown, Guinn dives deeply into his subject to present a vivid combination of well-researched facts, personal testimonials, and controversial perspectives.

Scrupulous and frequently enthralling, this is a sobering account of a tragedy woven into the fabric of modern America..