'Live by your own rules' - Robert Greene, the 'modern Machiavelli' debunks the prevailing mythology of success and presents a radical new way to greatness.

Around the globe, people are facing the same problem - that we are born as individuals but are forced to conform to the rules of society if we want to succeed. To see our uniqueness expressed in our achievements, we must first learn the rules - and then how to change them completely. Charles Darwin began as an underachieving schoolboy, Leonardo da Vinci as an illegitimate outcast. The secret of their eventual greatness lies in a 'rigorous apprenticeship': by paying close and careful attention, they learnt to master the 'hidden codes' which determine ultimate success or failure. Then, they rewrote the rules as a reflection of their own individuality, blasting previous patterns of achievement open from within. Told through Robert Greene's signature blend of historical anecdote and psychological insight and drawing on interviews with world leaders, Mastery builds on the strategies outlined in The 48 Laws of Power to provide a practical guide to greatness - and how to start living by your own rules.

"Praise for The 48 Laws of Power: 'At last, the book to help you scheme your way into the upper echelons of power. Essential rules for the new Machiavellis" - Daily Express

"The year's surprise bestseller will doubtless appeal to all armchair megalomaniacs" - Daily Mail

"Beguiling ... literate ... fascinating ... a wry primer for people who desperately want to be on top" - People

"Machiavelli has a new rival, and Sun-tzu had better watch his back" - New York Times