First of all let me tell you that this plot is not new. The movie "Wag the Dog" starring Dustin Hoffman has a fake war too.
The story is well written and fast paced so you'll have a good time reading it but it also has some blunders.

Spoiler:
If you haven't read the book don't read this:

The plot is a little far-fetched because I really don't think that Russia or China will start a war just for hearing some scuttlebutt and not checking the truth of it. I think that part is utterly false and wrong not to mention that everybody will use the same dealer to buy war-ware.

Another reviewer suggested that this book is akin to a James Bond story and, yes, I agree, but it's such a fast, good read that it's fun. Set the scene with a multi billionaire on his own luxury yacht, down in the bowels of which is his private submarine in which he may come and go unseen. The central character is named Shaw and is a secret operative for a government agency, fighting crime. When Shaw becomes engaged to marry a brilliant and beautiful woman who works for a Hong Kong based company which employs only exceptionally clever people to act as a think tank for world problems, he tries to leave his very dangerous occupation to lead a normal life with her. His employer refuses to allow him to leave until he has carried out another mission to prevent the possibility of WW3. Multi billionaire, Nicholas Creel, head of the armament company, Ares Corporation, is planning to create suspicion between China and Russia, in order to sell massive amounts of arms and to keep the world in a state of Cold War. Yes, it's quite a Bond story but one which I found to be a good, exciting read with danger, murder, spectacular fights, beautiful girls and hunky heroes!

I received this book in excellent condition at a cheaper price than could be found ANYWHERE. And it arrived quickly as well. Thanks!

Wonderful story. Listened with my husband on the road to Santa Fe. We both in joyed it. Thanks

Awesome book. David Baldacci is a wonderful author who paints pictures with words. Don't read this book unless you are willing to stay put until its finished. Draws you in and doesn't let go. Fantastic.