The Christmas Strike

Charismatic California Senator Jack Cortland has his eye on the White House. He counts on support from the nation's labor unions and on profits from his oil portfolio. Incumbent President Sheridan Washburn must decide whether to launch a clandestine military operation to rescue a group of international hostages in an oil-rich African country. Cantara Suhayar, a dedicated young terrorist, launches the ultimate strike against America to avenge the death of her brother at the hands of the CIA. Caught in the maelstrom of international intrigue is Pete Carpenter, the Senator's legislative analyst. He is forced to choose between loyalty to his country, to his boss, and to the young woman who shares his life. A fast-paced political thriller, zooming from Africa to Vienna to Washington and San Francisco, it is also a thought-provoking commentary on life in the turbulent post-9/11 era.