He is the most significant Labor figure in Australia since Paul Keating, and the most dominant Victorian premier since Jeff Kennett. He combines Labor’s progressive streak with its conservative edge, implementing both an infrastructure program and social reforms of a scale unseen in the state since the era of John Cain.

Sumeyya Ilanbey’s biography of Daniel Andrews tells the extraordinary story of the factional hack who became premier. She reveals how he defied the conventional political playbook to win back the blue collar vote for Labor, and overcome crises that could have been his downfall. His government imposed some of the longest pandemic lockdowns in the world, yet the more he was attacked for this by opponents, the more his popularity increased.

At a time when state leaders have reversed the long drift of political power to Canberra, Daniel Andrews is the most successful among them. This is a fascinating behind the scenes account of the breathtaking ruthlessness and masterful control of communications that underpin his political power.