Duringthe three years that the author was Canadian ambassador in Quito,Ecuador, the country experienced – often simultaneously –volcanic eruptions, economic collapse, indigenous uprisings and acoup d’état by the military. Adding to the crisis was a kidnappingof Canadians in the Amazon region. This diary details day by day thethreats and challenges faced by the ambassador, his family and theembassy staff.

Inspite of the chaos, Canada emerged during this period as a majorplayer in Ecuador’s political and economic life. This story willintrigue readers with its account of a developing nation’sstruggles, as well as descriptions of the Andes, the Amazon and themagnificent Galapagos Islands.

"Asa key player, and the Canadian lead in efforts to secure the releaseof the kidnapped workers, Ambassador Kneale offers abehind-the-scenes look at the negotiations conducted with a groupintent on achieving its goals, even at a risk to the lives of eightinnocent men."

GordonBlack, Chief Superintendent (retired)

RoyalCanadian Mounted Police

HostageNegotiator

"JohnKneale's Ecuador memoir crackles with murderous bickering,extravagant local corruption, double dealing, and bloated egos incollision. At the centre is an unsparing cautionary tale about theoften fumbled reactions in Ottawa and Washington to the kidnapping ofCanadian and American oil field workers. An excellent read."

JohnW. Graham

Formerambassador, chair emeritus of the Canadian Foundation for theAmericas, and author of the forthcoming memoir "Whose Man inHavana? Adventures from the Far Side of Diplomacy"

Kneale'sdescription of the challenges for a Canadian oil company working inthe Amazon jungle and dealing with the political realities of 1990sEcuador is spot-on. When the dust settles and the rhetoric fadesaway, ethics and integrity compel a faithful re-telling of history.Kneale captures perfectly the spectrum of potential outcomes whencultures, politics, business and diplomacy mingle but don't alwaysmix.

JohnD. Wright

Presidentand CEO

PetroBakkenEnergy Ltd.