Crespino does a good job of complicating the story of Strom Thurmond and prevents readers from placing him in strict categories defined by overt racism.  It was interesting to see his role in the rise of modern conservatism, but it was also very intriguing to see his political journey throughout the book.  He has a fascinating public and private life that attracts the reader throughout.  Overall, Crespino goes beyond Storm's racist roots and succeeds in depicting him as a complex political figure that pioneered conservative ideas that we still see today.