“CONFLICT” by Greg Kennedy is a gripping political military fiction that delves deep into the intricacies of global power struggles and the ever-evolving nature of warfare. Set against the backdrop of the South China Sea, this novel offers a panoramic view of a world on the brink of catastrophe. This book is timely.

The story unfolds with China launching an aggressive campaign against its neighbouring countries-first targeting the Philippines, then Vietnam, and Japan. As the conflict escalates, the ambition of the Chinese leadership becomes clear: world dominance. The narrative shifts between the perspectives of key global leaders, including the Presidents of the USA, China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Russia, France, Ukraine and the Prime Ministers of Britain, Japan and Australia. The reader is taken on a journey through war rooms and covert operations, revealing the high-stakes decisions and strategies that shape the course of history.

The South China Sea becomes the epicentre of the conflict, where naval battles and aerial dogfights ensue. The climax of the story occurs when China faces a critical defeat in the South China Sea. In a desperate bid for victory, China attempts to deploy a nuclear device against the United States. However, this catastrophic plan fails, marking a turning point in the war.

The resolution comes with a dramatic twist: the Vice-President of China inform the Americans that the Chinese President has died, signalling an unexpected shift in the political landscape. This revelation opens the door for negotiations and a possible end to the hostilities.

Throughout the novel, the theme of intelligence gathering is prominently featured. It is through the meticulous work of intelligence agencies that crucial information is uncovered, ultimately leading to the prevention of the nuclear disaster and the eventual downfall of the Chinese aggression. Greg Kennedy’s deep understanding of intelligence operations provides a unique and authentic perspective, challenging the reader to keep pace with the fast-moving and ever-changing scenarios.

Central to the narrative is the exploration of how political decisions dramatically influence the nature of war. The book intricately details how the calculations and miscalculations of world leaders can escalate conflicts or pave the way for peace. Political manoeuvres, alliances, and betrayals shape the strategies on the ground and the fate of nations, demonstrating that warfare is as much a battle of minds as it is of might.

With a descriptive tone and a style that immerses the reader in the tension and urgency of global conflict, “CONFLICT” stands out for its detailed portrayal of modern warfare and political manoeuvring. Kennedy’s identifying little known intelligence services within the intelligence agencies adds a layer of authenticity that will captivate readers who crave a realistic and thought-provoking military thriller.

The synopsis emphasizes the critical role of political decisions in shaping the course of war and state affairs.