Truly an incredible read for all those who favor John le Carre, Graham Greene, or Thomas Perry ("Metzger's Dog"). Mr. Burdett really has guanxi when it comes to global finance and Asian economics, and so forth! And a tremendous mystery novel and primer for anyone unfamiliar with the labrynthine and bizantine politics of Thailand (some of the most complex in existence); with a topical and future subject: international organ harvesting and trafficking.

** Stars. I have enjoyed this series for years because the protagonist is a Bangkok policeman and I lived and studied in Thailand. Yes, I was a farang. It's fun to understand the "inside" humor. This particular edition was my least favorite of the series. It deals with an international human organ selling conspiracy. Still enjoy the main characters and recommend the series, if not this particular book. Again if you are interested in the adventures of Detective Sonchai Jitpleecheep start with "Bangkok 8".

The first two books in this series were such a joy: so fresh and delightful. Sonchai's naive narrative with its Buddhist slant provided an unusual Asian perspective to his police work in the seamy side of life in Bangkok. But there has been a steady decline since then in books three and four and now this one, the fifth, is feeling a bit tired and Sonchai is becoming too cynical. I think it's time for Sonchai to retire.