In this novel, a British writer embarks on a harrowing quest to find her friend, a playwright who has gone missing in Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge regime. The narrative weaves together the writer's journey through a landscape of political turmoil and personal discovery, with letters and fragments from the missing friend that reveal the brutal reality of the regime. As the protagonist delves deeper into the darkness that has engulfed her friend, she confronts the limits of art, the responsibilities of intellectuals, and the haunting interplay between politics and individual lives. The story is a poignant exploration of the human capacity for both cruelty and compassion, set against the backdrop of one of the 20th century's most tragic episodes.

"The Quality of Mercy" delves into the complex world of international aid, examining the effectiveness and ethical implications of humanitarian efforts in crisis-stricken regions. The book scrutinizes the roles played by various NGOs, government agencies, and international bodies, questioning whether their interventions truly serve the best interests of those in need or if they inadvertently perpetuate dependency and conflict. Through a series of case studies and firsthand accounts, the author challenges readers to reconsider the consequences of aid and the balance between compassion and practicality in addressing global suffering.