David Petraeus bio sullied by affair

"All In" is the title of the David Petraeus biography, and no book is more aptly titled. His caree is now in a shambles because he made a big, disasterous bet -- having an affair with co-author Paula Broadwell -- and it led to his resignation as CIA director.

The affair also sullies the book by Broadwell and Washington Post editor Vernon Loeb, which was highly praised. The prurient may read it, for clues to the Petraeus/Broadwell relationship. But how can anyone else now believe it is an objective account of his personality and leadership? I'm betting that Tom Brokaw, Doris Kearns Goodwin and others whose praise is noted on the publisher's website would love a chance at a rewrite.

Here's an example from Mark Bowden, author of the acclaimed "Black Hawk Down": "Anyone seeking to understand the nature of American warfighting in the 21st century, how it is both like and utterly unlike that of any previous one, needs to understand Petraeus, his remarkable career, his thinking, and his character. All In is an excellent place to start. It is fascinating and insightful, informed by remarkable access to the man both on and off the battlefield."

Remarkable access, indeed.