Hong Kong Redux

Is the battle for, or invasion of, Taiwan just around the corner, five years out, or starting tomorrow? Major Steve North, USMC, serving as Deputy Director of the NSA’s China Unit, is dedicated – some say relentless. He has a knack for seeing what others do not and, most importantly, acting on them. Investigating the murder of a dear friend and his family in Australia, he is drawn into a conspiracy with international implications. As parts of the plan are revealed, he devises a bold operation to stop a war, only to discover that some believe his actions may actually trigger the conflict, rather than prevent it. As ‘H’ hour approaches, new information and his knowledge of Sun Tzu’s ‘Art of War’ help him reveal the ‘true’ objective of the plan. North counsels U.S. leadership to prevent another ‘Hong Kong Redux,’ where China gets to walk away with the prize, without a single shot being fired!”

Editorial Review ★★★★★

In this gripping geopolitical thriller, the author delivers a masterfully crafted tale of international intrigue that feels ripped from tomorrow’s headlines. Through the keen eyes of Major Steve North, readers are thrust into a complex web of global politics, military strategy, and personal vendetta that keeps them guessing until the final page.

What sets this novel apart is its sophisticated understanding of Asia-Pacific dynamics and military strategy. The author’s knowledge of Sun Tzu’s principles and their modern applications adds remarkable depth to the narrative, elevating it above typical military thrillers. The parallels drawn between Hong Kong’s transformation and potential future scenarios are both thought-provoking and unsettling in their plausibility.

Major North emerges as a compelling protagonist whose analytical mind and “relentless” determination drive the story forward. His role at the NSA’s China Unit provides a perfect vantage point for unraveling the complex conspiracy at the heart of the novel. The author skillfully balances North’s professional expertise with his personal investment in solving his friend’s murder, creating a character who is both competent and humanly flawed.

The plot’s construction is particularly impressive, building tension through multiple layers of deception and revelation. What begins as a murder investigation in Australia expertly expands into a much larger geopolitical crisis, with each new discovery raising the stakes. The author’s ability to weave together personal tragedy with international diplomacy and military strategy creates a narrative that is both intimate and expansive.

Perhaps most impressive is how the novel handles its complex themes without losing momentum. The exploration of modern warfare strategies, where victories might be achieved without traditional military engagement, offers a sobering look at contemporary geopolitical realities. The author’s treatment of these sensitive topics maintains suspense while avoiding simplistic solutions or caricatures.

“Hong Kong Redux” stands as a superior example of the modern political thriller, combining authentic military expertise with page-turning suspense. It’s a must-read for fans of Tom Clancy and Daniel Silva, offering both entertainment and insight into the complex dynamics of modern international relations.