Chinese Intelligence uncover a North Korean trying to sell a nuclear device. Then they find FIVE other dealers trying to do the same.
The buyer is the same in every case--the Pashtuns.
Is this "simply" nuclear proliferation?
A "Pashtun Spring"?
The realignment of geopolitical power in Central Asia?
A resurgence of Islamist terrorism?
How will the restless minorities in China, the Tibetans and the Uyghurs, react?
In order to anticipate and confront these threats, Spymaster Wang must negotiate through inter-agency and bureaucratic rivalries as well as personal ambitions, at home and abroad. He reaches for ancient insight into strategies and unorthodox alliances. But the struggle he must undertake cannot cease and the outcome always remains in doubt.
This is not the usual tale of "feel good vengeance" or the exploration of the Western id or libido in espionage. It appeals to readers with a curiosity about non-western traditions, cultures and expectations about the value of action--and non-action.
UPDATED June 29, 2012