by R. M. Koster
First published 1990
Panama trembles as military strongmen seize control of the nation. Omar Torrijos consolidates power through force and manipulation, backed by shadowy American intelligence operatives who see him as a useful ally. When Torrijos dies, Manuel Noriega emerges from the ranks to claim leadership, proving even more brutal and corrupt than his predecessor. Both dictators crush opposition voices, eliminate threats, and transform Panama into their personal fiefdom while Washington continues its support despite mounting evidence of their crimes. Citizens disappear in the night. Journalists fall silent. Those brave enough to resist face torture or death. The story follows ordinary Panamanians caught between their oppressive rulers and the foreign powers that enable them, revealing how tyranny takes root when democratic institutions crumble and international allies prioritize geopolitical convenience over human rights.
Genres: american-fiction, historical-fiction, 20th-century, thriller, 21st-century, political-thriller
Vibes: dark, emotional, fast-paced, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-allies, ordinary-people-in-extraordinary-circumstances, power-struggle
Setting: Panama, United States
Period: 20th Century, 21st Century
416 pages · Hardcover · Martin Secker & Warburg Ltd
Content warnings: abuse, torture