Bangkok is the setting for Poke Rafferty’s dangerous experiences, and this latest chapter in the series, perhaps the most thrilling, is no exception. Having already written a few books, and as part of his research into a new one, Rafferty induces his policemen friends, Arthit and Kosit, to set up a poker game with a known criminal serving a lengthy sentence to serve as a tutorial in cheating. (The tutor is promised six months off his sentence to cooperate.)
The poker game includes three rich businessmen, one of whom, a billionaire (in Bahts or dollars is not clear), is drunk and takes exception on seeing a secret signal and deducing that the game is fixed. He insists on an honest game with Poke, and in an effort to quiet the man’s rage, Rafferty names the terms of the bet: an honest biography of the billionaire, Pan, a man of whom little is known, if he wins. The challenge is accepted and eventually Rafferty wins.
The problem arises when two opposing forces confront Rafferty: one that demands he write a negative book, the other that he not write one at all. The plot involves all sorts of shenanigans, some amusing, others exciting, but all of potential danger to Poke, his wife and daughter.
Another fun read in an excellent series, and recommended.
