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The author makes frequent use of flashbacks, employing a simple device - three full stops - to signal a shift in time. This simple technique has the effect of deepening understanding of the characters, in particular that of Michael Smith who has returned to Phnom Penh after six months absence. Gradually, the flashbacks reveal his reasons for returning. Part political intrigue and part love story, the book concerns an essentially honourable man who is persuaded to become involved in commercial and governmental corruption. In agreeing to do so he is unaware that Zainab, the woman he loves and who works for a United States NGO, is a supporter of the Reform Party and is attempting to bring about a cleaner, more transparent government. This is noticed in government circles and life becomes increasingly dangerous for her. She is aware of the threat but ignores the possible consequences. Michael Smith feels himself responsible for her safety and it is his attempt to rescue her from danger that forms the climax to the book. In another sense, however, the love story subsumes the politics and becomes all-important. Zainab, the wife of a British Embassy official, is a Buddhist and her beliefs lead her to question whether she should be involved with another man. Michael also has reservations at being part of an adulterous affair. Both of them are aware of a loss of integrity in pursuing the relationship but neither can bear the thought of ending it. The progress of their love and its eventual outcome are touchingly told without a trace of sentimentality. In particular – because it is told from Michael Smith's point of view – we are presented with a powerful, picture of a man's love for a woman. But not only does he love her, he learns from her. It is clear that the author has carried out considerable research into both the area itself and the plight of its ordinary people, who experience ‘hunger in the provinces and more poverty in the capital'. The atmosphere of Cambodia, the monsoon and the heat are all well brought out. The two major characters are convincing and the lesser ones are described with an attention to detail, which always makes them interesting to us. All in all THE END OF THE MONSOON is a very good book. § Arnold Taylor is a retired Examinations Board Officer, amateur writer and even more amateur bridge player.
Reviewed by Arnold Taylor, August 2011
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