For thirty-three years, Stojo Petkanow ruled as head of state and leader of the Communist Party, was a hero of labor, and a leader of the antifascist resistance. Now he is being put on trial. The charges include theft, embezzlement of public funds, corruption, complicity in murder, violation of human rights, and much more. What gives his accuser—appointed by Petkanow himself—his legitimacy? What happens when evidence is lacking, but a conviction is needed? Is a Stalinist to blame if methods of a Stalinist show trial are applied to him? Where is the praised democratic renewal? Through the example of a fictional Eastern European state, Julian Barnes explores the political changes following the collapse of the Eastern Bloc. An exciting political novel, a sharp satire.