“A compelling account by a distinguished Vermont judge who seeks to uphold the rule of law in a part of the world that ‘repays blood with blood.’ Always attuned to humanity, Dean Pineles takes us on a journey that can be harrowing or humorous, but leaves readers with a profound appreciation of the devastating consequences when a society values vendettas more than victims, and power more than precedent.” –Jeffrey Amestoy, former Chief Justice Vermont Supreme Court and author of Slavish Shore: The Odyssey of Richard Henry Dana Jr.

“Dean Pineles offers a delightful, entertaining account of his career in the international arena, where he worked to build rule of law in a variety of countries as they emerged from dictatorship or conflict. Anyone who reads this will gain an appreciation for how challenging, and how rewarding, this work can be.” —Clint Williamson, 3rd United States Ambassador-at-Large for War Crimes

This book provides a fascinating insight into the minutia of international justice. Judge Pineles’ account highlights the many challenges faced by those tasked with actually implementing ambitious mandates, and the difficulties inherent in navigating both bureaucracy and political interests at both local and international levels.” –Aidan Hehir, University of Westminster, London, and co-editor of Kosovo and Transitional Justice: The Pursuit of Justice After Large-Scale Conflict