In Paris, a physicist dies after a visit from a beautiful stranger. In the jungles of Malaysia, a mysterious buyer purchases deadly technology. In Vancouver, a research submarine is hired for use in the waters off New Guinea. And in Tokyo, Professor John Kenner - intelligence agent and environmental specialist ­works to uncover an unprecedented threat to the future of the entire world.

State of Fear races on a roller-coaster thrill ride across the globe - from the volcanoes of Antarctica to the streets of Paris and the beaches of los Angeles ­all the while keeping, the brain in high gear. Gripping and thought-provoking, this potent blend of scientific fact and pulse-pounding action is Michael Crichton at his very best.