Takeover

No treaties, no truces, this one is to the finish . . . When Jim Crawford, the flamboyant CEO of electronics company, Ayot plc launches a hostile bid for old-fashioned Byfield plc it at first appears just another example of market forces dictating the survival of the fittest, irrespective of the human cost. But it soon becomes apparent that Crawford has another motivation: an old score to settle with Byfield's Chairman, John Parker. When things get personal cool business sense is the first casualty. Ride the takeover roundabout and experience the thrill of success and the grim reality of the terrible financial and human cost when things go wrong. "Takeover" is both a gripping read and informative. Step by step, we are led through the drama of a contested bid - and see all the skills, action and emotion that lie behind the headlines. The story shows the human cost of the world of business - and the sacrifices that are made to reach and stay at the top. Winner takes all in the City - but it is not always clear who are the winners and who are really the losers. Peter Harris, Group Managing Director, Lex Service plc A gripping tale of intrigue and passions ' Sir Malcolm Bates, Chairman, Pearl Group plc "Takeover" is a racy novel written by authors who know the territory and work on boards. They have produced a page-turner which rings true. Business people will instantly recognise the characters, the tensions, the personal triumphs and tragedies.' Professor Bernard Taylor, Centre for Business Excellence, Henley Management College A book every businessperson should read.' John Cowling, Managing Director, Casio Electronics Co. Ltd The deadly countdown to completion of the takeover heightens the excitement and parallels real life all too closely. This is a book that is hard to put down.' Richard Holland, CEO, Boosey & Hawkes Group plc