About the Book:

Flashpoint China depicts tensions in the Taiwan Strait when an unprecedented alignment of presidential selections in Taiwan, China, and the United States destabilizes international relations in 2012.  The charismatic president of Taiwan  mobilizes widespread support among Taiwanese for a new constitution declaring full independence from mainland China.  The new president of China, selected in a bitter struggle with his rival, remains determined to maintain China’s claim on Taiwan amidst enormous internal cross-pressures.  In the U.S., the first black female ever to occupy the Oval Office faces reelection in a close race against a rival who fans anti-Chinese sentiment while the president adheres to the longstanding policy of dual deterrence.

While the American president strives to maintain peace in the Taiwan Strait, her counterpart in Beijing begins a blockade to choke Taiwan economically.  A crisis breaks out when a Chinese cruiser torpedoes a U.S. destroyer.  The U.S. Navy retaliates, and the situation quickly escalates as the region heads for all out war.   

About the Author:

Dr. William E. Cooper serves as Distinguished University Professor and President Emeritus at the University of Richmond.  He has authored several books and articles in cognitive science, higher education, and international relations.