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Black Gold Finale

· By Anthony Wells · From pages 4, 5 of the print edition

The backdrop for Dr. Wells' international thriller is a world in conflict, with an energy crisis more severe than even the most astute analysts could have predicted. The United States' position as a superpower is threatened by an economic downturn that makes the Great Depression pale in comparison. As Islamic fundamentalists struggle to control the oil supply in the middle east and China threatens to create a new world order, newly elected President Angela Truman must deal with colliding interests to stabilize the global economy and defuse a military crisis that may result in World War III.

At the heart of the solution lies the Submarine Force of the United States Pacific Fleet. The interplay among the military, the shadowy intelligence forces of the CIA and Britain's MI-6 with the new administration in Washington is vividly portrayed by Wells as Commander Mark Clark, of the submarine USS Virginia, relies on his experience and sharp instincts to avert disaster.

With over forty years of experience in the national security and intelligence business, Dr. Wells skillfully draws the reader into the fray. His novel gives us a unique perspective on the complex economic and energy crises facing our global society today. His characters immerse us in a world known to few, but fascinating to all.