Taken As Red

‘A balanced, thoughtful narrative that reflects opinions both within and between the parties. A must-read.’ The Guardian

‘A revelatory and insightful account. Asthana is one of the best-connected journalists in Westminster.’ Tim Shipman

‘The swiftest “first draft of history” to land, a comprehensive exploration into everything that led to Keir Starmer marching into Downing Street … Packed with detail and meticulously sourced. … An invaluable resource.’ New Statesman

‘Anushka Asthana’s storytelling, contacts and analysis are second to none. This is an unmissable political book.’ Robert Peston

‘Interesting reading for all armchair politicians.’ The Sun *****

‘Anushka knows all the key players intimately, but never forgets that the most important thing is to understand the voters. With her expertise, insight and empathy, plus her tenacious reporting skills, there are few journalists better placed to write this book.’ Katharine Viner

‘You won’t find a more meticulously researched account of the election.’ Paul Brand

‘A brilliant woman and journalist – and now author.’ Pippa Crerar

‘A superb account of recent political history … Essential reading.’ John Rentoul

‘Impeccable analysis and access told with humanity by a journalist who has it all.’ Daniel Hewitt

‘What makes this book really interesting is it shows how a campaign feels to a journalist when the cameras are off.’ Tom Baldwin

‘One of the best political reporters out there – as comfortable delivering top-level analysis from Westminster as she is reporting human stories around the country. This book is a must-read.’ Esme Wren

‘Anushka writes with authority, ease, warmth and intellect. A masterful interviewer, and an utterly brilliant storyteller.’ Charlene White

‘Full of telling descriptive points … provides as thorough an account of Labour’s election victory as you’re likely to find.’ LabourList

‘A vividly written page-turner. … All students of Starmerism would do well to examine this book closely and take heed.’ The House

Anushka Asthana is deputy political editor at ITV News. Previously the Guardian’s political editor and host of the Today in Focus podcast, she has also been senior political correspondent at Sky News, and before that chief political correspondent and columnist at The Times. Shortlisted for political journalist of the year by the Press Gazette in 2023.