by Ron Van Der Holt (Author)
Set in the early 1980s, Roland, a young chef, emerges from a long shift and walks to his girlfriend Lena's apartment. He discovers she's gone and her place is empty. Where is she? Accidentally, he discovers she's left for Thailand. He quits his job and, embarking upon a path he never anticipated, attempts to find her.
As experienced through the eyes of Roland and many people he meets, the reader journeys from the thriving streets of Hong Kong to bustling Bangkok, from the idyllic islands of southern Thailand to northern jungles beyond Chang Mai. Following clues and sightings, Roland pursues Lena from counter culture Kathmandu to the Nepalese Himalayas, from teeming Mumbai to the beaches of Goa. In every location there are tantalising hints, and indications of her next destination.
Who or what is the adversary? Why does Roland insist on reuniting with Lena? Who's pursuing both? Is the adversary a few steps behind, a few steps ahead, or is the adversary within? "The Adversary" is an exploration of motivation, conflict and resolution set against the back drop of exotic Asian locations. Immersed in paradise, what's the dark secret? Finally in Goa, Roland is forced to confront his adversary. Only one will survive.