This book is a wonderful slice of Reformation history. The figure of John Calvin looms large in history, and his theological and ecclesial influences are still felt to this day. Often when we reflect on historical figures and read their works we see them as fully formed and complete in their thought, but the reality is not true. Historical figures, especially those who were theologians, arrived at their conclusions over long periods of time. There's give and take in discussion with others. This book highlights the back and forth between Calvin and those who caused him a great deal of mental agony and the theological back and forth that helped Calvin, and at times forced him, to realize a more fully formed position on various issues. This book does not function as a apologia for Calvin and his theology, but functions as an important piece of scholarship which serves to not only humanize Calvin but to set his various theological issues in the light of contemporary issues of his time.