Douglas Blackburn’s “Dar al Salaam” is an enthralling novel set against a backdrop of global instability, where civil wars and fractured states have become the norm. In this setting, the UN Secretary-General entrusts a senior Chinese official, educated at Cambridge, with an almost insurmountable challenge. The official, Li, is tasked with assembling a team of experts capable of intervening in critical global crises. The narrative intensifies as they confront a secret plot that threatens to destabilise the world’s oil supplies, setting superpowers on a collision course and potentially reviving a medieval Caliphate.

The book masterfully explores the nuances of international politics and the complexities of espionage. As Li meticulously selects a team of extraordinarily gifted individuals, the story delves into their backgrounds, skills, and the dynamics of their collaboration. The real suspense lies in whether this diverse team can come together in time to prevent a global catastrophe, with the threat of economic meltdown and war looming large. “Dar al Salaam” is not just a story of geopolitical intrigue but also a testament to the power of collective intelligence and bravery in the face of daunting odds.