As a reader of many Follett books ---and this one is quite gripping in its narritive, I am somewhat puzzled. Even with the story line as presented, it amazes that the leaders of the world's strongest nations would resort to such drastic moves WITHOUT more one on one communication. Too many "advisors" that lack the ability to plan a move or two past the present one, is unrealistic even in a novel. The result is inevitable, but hopefully not prophetic.