by R. M. Koster
First published 2013
Kiki stands in the shadow of his father, a man who twice held the presidency of Tinieblas before losing it. Now Kiki burns with his own presidential ambitions in this volatile nation where military coups strike as regularly as tropical storms. Political enemies circle like vultures, but they represent only half the challenge. American interests loom over Tinieblas, pulling strings and toppling governments that displease them. Kiki must navigate both local rivals and foreign powers if he hopes to claim the presidency. He studies the art of political manipulation, learning when to strike and when to retreat. Violence erupts around him as factions clash for control. The son of a former president discovers that winning power requires more than birthright or desire. Success demands the cold calculation of a true Machiavellian prince. This National Book Award nominee captures the brutal comedy of political ambition in a nation where democracy and dictatorship dance together in an endless, bloody waltz.
Genres: american-fiction, historical-fiction, contemporary, political-thriller
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, family-drama
Setting: Tinieblas
Period: 20th-century, 21st-century
352 pages · Paperback · The Overlook Press
Content warnings: violence