Inversion

Detailed Synopsis

The world's economic order stands on the brink of transformation. During a G8 summit in Canada, developing nations secretly gathe. Led by Argentina and Peru, they declare "Jubilee"—a biblical-inspired movement refusing to pay international debts. This coordinated action sends shockwaves through the global financial system.

David Krynauw, once a prominent Jubilee protest leader, is appointed to head JCOM (Jubilee Committee), tasked by G8 nations to monitor and report on the worldwide impact of this economic revolution. He assembles a team including Heather Gaes, his longtime friend and eventual romantic interest, and Lucinda, his capable assistant with her own complicated past.

The story unfolds across multiple countries as nations respond differently to the new economic reality. Argentina embraces change, implementing environmental taxation and local economic development. Nigeria remains under foreign influence, particularly from the United States. India struggles with environmental devastation while attempting progressive reforms. The United States, facing severe energy crises and economic upheaval, desperately resists change.

Opposition to JCOM's work turns deadly. The team faces infiltration attempts, media manipulation, and violence. A key team member, Cong Yan, is assassinated in London after refusing to bow to blackmail. David himself survives an assassination attempt in Switzerland. Throughout these challenges, the team uncovers how various powers, particularly within the United States, attempt to maintain control through media manipulation and economic pressure.

The narrative weaves together global politics with personal relationships. David and Heather's long-standing friendship evolves into romance, while Lucinda navigates threats related to her ex-husband's criminal connections. The team must also cope with internal betrayal when they discover their secretary is working for opposing forces.

As the story progresses, even the United States begins to acknowledge the need for change, particularly after David orchestrates a clever media campaign exposing years of manipulated reporting about Jubilee. Countries experiment with new economic models, emphasizing environmental responsibility and local sustainability over global trade.

The novel reaches its climax during a meeting with world leaders in Switzerland, where David presents JCOM's findings. A failed assassination attempt by a displaced American political figure confirms the desperate measures some will take to resist change. Despite the danger, David's work helps validate the Jubilee movement's goals while exposing the need for fundamental economic and environmental reform.

The story concludes with David planning to step back from JCOM after completing the U.S. report, looking toward a future with Heather in the Rocky Mountains. Their planned wedding at Iguaçu Falls symbolizes hope for a better future, even as the world continues to adapt to dramatic economic and environmental changes.

Throughout the narrative, the book explores themes of economic justice, environmental sustainability, power dynamics, and personal courage in the face of systemic opposition. It combines elements of political thriller, romance, and social commentary to examine how global change affects both international relations and individual lives.

The novel suggests that while transformative change brings significant challenges and resistance, it also offers hope for a more sustainable and equitable world. This message is conveyed through both the broad global narrative and the personal journeys of its characters.