Our ever-increasing understanding of viral replication, not only in terms of the functions of viral proteins, but also those of cellular ones, has allowed the development of antiviral agents that have proved a real success in the treatment of diseases caused by herpes viruses, human immunodeficiency virus and influenza virus, and it probably will not be long before hepatitis C virus can be added to the list. This book describes the efforts that are being made to identify and validate antiviral targets and evaluate their efficacy in animal models and in the clinic. The critical issue of drug resistance is discussed, as is the possibility of using microbicides to prevent infection. The book contains a wealth of information and I can recommend it to all students, research scientists and clinicians interested in human viral disease and it's management. The book's hefty price tag, however, is likely to limit its purchase to institutions.