Masters of the Game

Book excerpt: A veteran legal reporter reveals the inner workings of Washington’s most powerful law firm with “vivid, savvy reportage” (Kirkus Reviews). For decades, journalist Kim Eisler has covered the law firm of Williams & Connolly as its partners have risen to key positions in American politics, business, and culture. From presidential impeachments to professional sports teams, from the Iran-Contra scandal to the rise of Sarah Palin, Williams & Connolly has been behind the scenes. Now, with her deep knowledge and unprecedented access to its partners, Eisler reveals how Williams & Connolly has attained such power and influence. Eisler begins with the firm’s founder, Edward Bennett Williams, who often said he was building not just a law firm but a monument. Masters of the Game shows how his disciples carried his philosophy and practices beyond Washington to dominate business, media, finance, sports and the American psyche itself.