"A Killing Smile" by Christopher G. Moore is a gripping and atmospheric novel that sets the stage for the Land of Smiles Trilogy. This cult classic tale of betrayal and exploitation follows Lawrence Baring, a successful Los Angeles attorney, who travels to Bangkok after discovering his late wife's long-distance affair with Robert Tuttle, a man entrenched in the Bangkok underworld.
As Baring navigates the complex and often treacherous world of Bangkok's nightlife, he finds himself entangled in a web of intrigue and deception. The novel delves into the city's vibrant yet dark underbelly, where characters from all walks of life-spies, gangsters, diplomats, and expatriates-converge in places like Patpong and Soi Cowboy.
Moore masterfully weaves a narrative that explores themes of friendship, revenge, and cultural misunderstandings, offering a nuanced portrayal of Thai culture and society. With its vivid descriptions and intricate plot, "A Killing Smile" is both a haunting drama and a fascinating exploration of human relationships in a foreign land.