Linda Midmore

This is a thought-provoking story that seems particularly relevant today when Putin is reportedly in secret talks with the leader of North Korea…. I read this book as a thriller, and wasn’t expecting great literature. Just as well. All the criticisms about the female leads are true, and some of the dialogue is cringeworthy. I would defend Ken against the accusation that the 3 separate plot lines never interconnect. As is always the case, some stories are more engaging than others, but the American president is obviously a key player in any plot line involving global nuclear war, as is the CIA. And the folksy opposition senator is almost comic in his rabble-rousing speeches, if only he didn’t sound so familiar…. The Chad storyline is easily the most exciting and its characters are the most interesting. Arguably the main story could survive without the Chad subplot, but its inclusion is justified by showing how extreme Islamist groups are funded by drugs and people trafficking. It also highlights the desperation and vulnerability of those caught up in these trades. The scenes at the illegal goldmine were truly horrific. Finally, the Chinese subplot is necessary to give balance to the Americans. I thought Ken handled this side very well, showing the pressures of culture and history facing a young reformer, Kai, trying to avoid the escalation of hostilities against a background of political party intrigue and back-stabbing. I found this part realistic and the characters convincing and interesting. Overall, if you want an entertaining holiday read that will remain in your mind afterwards, keep reading. Despite its flaws I enjoyed reading this and raced through the final part.