In "Erdogan's Empire," Soner Cagaptay embarks on a riveting journey through Turkey's ambitious quest for greatness under the shadow of Recep Tayyip Erdogan's rule. As Erdogan steers Turkey away from its secular roots and its allegiance with the West, towards a path reminiscent of the Ottoman sultans and Ataturk's visions, Cagaptay meticulously unravels the complex fabric of Middle Eastern power politics and Turkey's contentious role within it. This book stands as a testament to Erdogan's unyielding dream of transforming Turkey into a formidable standalone power, navigating through an era marked by diplomatic isolation and internal suppression. Cagaptay's narrative, rich with historical insights and contemporary analysis, paints a vivid picture of a nation at a crossroads, torn between its glorious past and an uncertain future. As Erdogan's empire expands, so do the challenges - from a crackdown on freedom at home to a rapidly changing alliance network abroad, against the backdrop of a resurgent Russia and Iran. "Erdogan's Empire" not only questions the feasibility of Erdogan's imperial ambitions but also probes the profound implications for Turkey and the broader region. Through this masterful overview, Cagaptay offers a critical examination of what it means to be a great power in today's volatile world and the high stakes that come with Erdogan's audacious dream.