A Bold Voice in Environmental Crime Fiction
Immersing readers in the shadowy underworld of ivory trafficking and the high‑stakes fight to save Africa’s elephants, ‘Ivory’ by Paul Smith is a gripping eco‑thriller that straddles crime fiction and conservation drama.
In Guangzhou, Ming Wei’s life takes a dark turn after the Black Claws gang kills his mentor, Old Dragon Yuan. Racked with guilt, Ming Wei turns informant for Detective Li Jie, exposing “Operation White Gold,” a massive ivory shipment routed through Kenya. Simultaneously, in the Serengeti, conservation officer Zara Okonkwo discovers a brutal elephant massacre marked with the Black Claws’ signature claw gouges. Teaming up with Interpol agent Jack Hawkins, Zara uncovers a sinister scheme to flood the market with lab‑grown “synthetic ivory” as cover for real tusks. As Ming infiltrates Huang’s inner circle and Zara exposes corruption within Kenya Wildlife Service, two storylines converge in a pre‑dawn raid on a coastal warehouse.
Paul Smith’s writing hooks you from the first page, shifting effortlessly between the gritty glow of Guangzhou and the harsh beauty of East Africa. His scenes are so vivid—steam-choked markets, bloodied savannahs—you can almost feel the heat and tension. The plot moves at just the right pace, balancing deep insider knowledge of conservation and crime with emotionally resonant characters. Ming’s redemption journey and Zara’s determination give the story heart, while the supporting cast bring nuance and complexity. With crisp dialogue and real stakes, the story builds to a payoff that feels both earned and thought-provoking.
Gripping, gutsy, and unforgettable, ‘Ivory’ delivers a compelling blend of action and insight. If you’re into crime stories with real-world stakes, this is a must-read. Paul Smith masterfully combines heart-pounding suspense with a powerful message about wildlife conservation, keeping the story both thrilling and thought-provoking. Whether you’re drawn to detective tales or passionate about environmental causes, this book hits the mark. Solid 5 stars—no hesitation!
