This book is primarily set in Saudi Arabia & Iran, although Switzerland, America & Europe also are featured. Written in 1976, and set in 1978-9 it is a little dated, the leader of Iran is the Shahanshah, Mohammad Rezā Shāh Pahlavī, so obviously it takes place in a world where there's been no Islamic Revolution, no Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, etc.

However if you're able to take this in your stride it is a gripping tale of high finance & international intrigue. At 350 pages it's a medium length novel, yet enthralling enough that I tackled it in one sitting without noticing the time passing.

The writing style could be classified as 'coarse' however I felt such fitted well with the narration by the cynical protagonist Bill Hitchcock and gave you a greater feeling of the character.

I'm looking forward to my next Paul Erdman read. ( )