'[An] impressive study . . . Transformed by the People is by its nature a book that will have a particularly select readership but it is probably the best of its kind in English to date on the subject and is essential reading for anyone with an interest in Syria in the post-Assad era.'

'Haenni and Drevon are both experts on this recent chapter of Syrian history, having watched much of it unfold in real time.'

'Essential reading... a landmark contribution.'

'A timely analysis of how a jihadi faction reinvented itself as a governing force in post-Al-Assad Syria.'

'Haenni and Drevon have done the impossible: They stuck with the Syrian tragedy long after others had shifted their attention, focused on Hayat Tahrir al-Sham at a time when it was not yet fashionable, and enjoyed deep familiarity with Syria's new leaders as everyone else had to play catch up. The result is a gem, a superb, edifying and eye-opening account of the evolution of the jihadist movement and a definitive response to those who wonder whether Sharaa's conversion and HTS's deradicalization are genuine or counterfeit. If any policymaker ever questions the utility of field work, you now have your answer: Just give them a copy of Transformed by the People. They won't regret it.'

'The authors have marshalled a tremendous amount of unique field research to develop a coherent, controversial, and ultimately convincing account of the pragmatic evolution of HTS.'

'Transformed by the People looks beyond the hysterics of the War on Terror and takes a serious historical view of the forces at play. Being the first westerners to reach out and connect with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and its leadership, Haenni and Drevon--in ground breaking fieldwork--reveal the deeper processes behind al Sharaa's moderation. This work will stand as an essential guide for any future analysts that aim at real explanation over simple polemics.'

'Haenni and Drevon have written a timely and original book that helps illuminate a critical issue: how and why the new leaders of Syria transformed from jihadists into pragmatists.'

'Those curious about Syria, its recent history, and its new transitional government will find all the necessary information and food for thought in this book. The history and transformation of HTS are presented meticulously, insightfully, and analytically. Black and white are passé; it is the shades of grey that strengthen our understanding of this enigmatic and fascinating movement and its leaders. For those who need or want to engage with the new Syria politically, this book is essential.'

'Rather than labelling HTS in the received terms of analysis as being "liberal", "secular", or even "realist", the authors argue that it represents a new and uncharted political experiment which moves beyond such categories but has not yet established its own.'

'An extraordinary book that dissects a complex phenomenon in a provocative and original manner. It does not dwell on paradoxes but shows concretely how a jihadist leader can evolve into a responsible national politician without denying himself. It is a rare example analysis of political sociology based on in-depth fieldwork that manages to avoid value judgments and ideological polemics.'

'Transformed by the People is a vital resource for understanding the remarkable journey of this formerly terrorist organisation into a major, and quite possibly stabilising, force not just in Syria but the entire Middle East.'

Patrick Haenni PhD specialises in social movements and the state in the Middle East. Jerome Drevon PhD is Senior Analyst in Jihad and Modern Conflict at the International Crisis Group and a research associate at the Geneva Graduate Institute. Both have spent many years carrying out on-the-ground research in Syria.