There are two mysteries running though this excellent novel. The first involves a series of deaths of top Chinese athletes just prior to a competition with the United States. The second involves the on-again-off-again romance between Section Chief Li Yan and the American pathologist, Margaret Campbell, who is almost in her ninth month of pregnancy and carrying his child,
It remains for the combined sleuthing of the pair to determine whether or not the deaths of the six top-rated athletes are a coincidence or something much more sinister. At the same time, will their planned marriage in two weeks take place? Tune in and find out.
Overall, it is a provocative story, keeping the reader on the edge of his/her seat on both themes. At the same time, the author provides interesting insights into Chinese culture and society, as well as the clashes among other characters. Well-written and well worth reading, and recommended.
[The book has been simultaneously published in a trade paperback edition]
