ABOUT THE BOOK

In this second book of the Code Word series, Al Qaeda’s master bomber launches jihad in America. Secretary of Homeland Security Ray Morales vows to stop him and in their struggle violates his own moral code. Amidst the pressure of his reelection campaign, President Martin compromises to save lives and win votes by a means he abhors. An assassination in Korea sucks China and America toward war, thrusting Martin into a high-stakes encounter with China’s president. Diplomatic, military, and covert action enmesh America, China, Korea, Japan, and Iran, forcing Morales and Martin into a struggle to defeat evil without becoming evil.

“Utterly topical, exciting, and definitely food for thought, Code Word: Pandora exposes the tectonic pressures of being The President, as he copes with staff intrigues and their burning political ambitions, while enduring the gut-wrenching loneliness of the man who has to choose between no good options on a daily basis. Great read.”

—NYT best-selling author P.T. Deutermann, author of Red Swan.

“Doug Norton’s latest thriller offers not just edge-of-your seat suspense, but demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of Asian politics, particularly the China-North Korea-Japan trifecta of history and warfare still affecting today’s U.S. security dangers and uncertainties. This is a must-read for both fiction fans and China specialists.”

—Bernard D. Cole, author of China’s Quest for Great Power: Ships, Oil, and Foreign Policy.

“Code Word: Pandora is a riveting read; ripped from the headlines immediacy crossed with real-world knowledge of someone who’s been there and done that. Compelling characters and a story that is all too possible. Doug Norton’s Code Word series will keep you up at night, even after you’ve finished reading.”

— Matthew Palmer, author of Enemy of the Good.