In the politically charged weeks before the 1996 election, "The Campaign: Shadows of Power" delves into the covert sabotage of three socially liberal political campaigns. Set in a thrilling backdrop of fictitious American locales, the story unravels a sinister conspiracy against candidates Lynn Stannos, Susan Shales, and Jack Flexman.
The narrative begins with an attempt to derail Stannos' campaign in Harriston, WI, hinting at the deep-seated conspiracy. The plot then thickens, introducing the shadowy "Committee" orchestrating these events from Casper Woods, NY. This Committee, comprising an evangelical preacher, a U.S. Congressman, a Vatican representative, and a Mafia figure, sets a chilling tone of power and manipulation.
In Wheatburg, MA, the campaign of Susan Shales becomes the next target. Here, embezzlement and scandal intertwine with election interference, revealing the Committee's far-reaching influence. Similarly, in the Arizona suburb of Sand Hill, Jack Flexman's campaign faces sabotage, sparking an internet outcry that draws the attention of computer hackers and reporters.
The story takes a darker turn as Eliot Ryback, a cab-driving hacker, and Eric Linton, a renowned hacker, join forces to expose the conspiracy. However, their investigation triggers a deadly response from the Committee, leading to a series of murders to silence those close to the truth.
Amidst escalating tension, reporters Rod Delano and Meg Tandy race against time to uncover and publish the conspiracy before Election Day. The climax reveals the Committee's desperate measures, including high-profile assassinations, to maintain their grip on power.
"The Campaign: Shadows of Power" is a gripping political thriller that weaves together elements of espionage, technology, and media manipulation. It presents a chilling reflection on the fragility of democracy and the relentless pursuit of power. This novel is a must-read for fans of political intrigue and conspiracies, offering a stark warning of the potential consequences of unchecked authority.
