CIA Intelligence Officer Brian Latell released his book about how Cuba would fare after Fidel Castro left office, assuming for the most part that he would have to die for that departure to take place.

Raul Castro is profiled extensively in this book and was the heir apparent in 2006 when the book first appeared. The author has extensive knowledge about the inner workings of the Castro regime and the history of the Castro family.

This is not a one-sided view of Raul Castro. His character traits complemented his brother's almost perfectly allowing them to rule Cuba together with an iron fist for over fifty years. That Fidel was willing to cede power to his brother and Raul was able to keep the country together is the big surprise. Mr. Latell opined that Raul's succession without Fidel's prior demise would be unsuccessful.

History has proven him wrong, of course.

This book is a compelling behind-the-scenes account of the extraordinary Castro brothers and the impending dynastic succession of Fidel's younger brother Raul. Brian Latell, the CIA analyst who has followed Castro since the sixties, gives an unprecedented view into Fidel and Raul's remarkable relationship, revealing how they have collaborated in policy making, divided responsibilities, and resolved disagreements for more than forty years -- a challenge to the notion that Fidel always acts alone. Latell has had more access to the brothers than anyone else in this country, and his briefs to the CIA informed much of U.S. policy. Based on his knowledge of Raul Castro, Latell makes projections on what kind of leader Raul would be and how the shift in power might influence U.S.-Cuban relations. - Publisher.