'This is an excellent book that provides us with important insights into a central, but so far insufficiently studied aspect of China's criminal justice through its in-depth studies of how 'criminal reconciliation' works on the ground. It is well-grounded in empirical research and critical analysis, and its argument is persuasive. This book is of great value to readers interested in the criminal justice system, judicial reforms, and human rights in China.' --Eva Pils, King's College London, UK'This detailed ethnographic study of ''criminal reconciliation'' (xingshi hejie) in China's criminal process uncovers a major contradiction between the formal rules and lived reality. In place of voluntary admissions of guilt, education and correction, the author found enforced ''reconciliation'' driven by criminal justice officials seeking to meet official performance evaluation criteria. This insightful study demonstrates how informal rules may be accorded primary importance in practice mirroring the Party's promotion of the ''rule of law with Chinese characteristics'' as it extends its authoritarian grip on everyday life.' --Mike McConville, Emeritus Professor, The Chinese University of Hong Kong