In this sequel to The Use of Power, Damon Hawkers fiance is kidnapped in an attempt to force him to reveal valuable information. In the process of rescuing her, he uncovers a plot thatif allowed to reach fruitionwill result in the mass murder of thousands of Americans. He is then forced by circumstances to assume a role that he detests in order to foil the plot and avoid causing a disastrous war between Russia and the United States. His efforts to that end lead to exotic dangers and take him on out-of-this-world adventures.