In a world teetering on the brink of environmental collapse, The Pacific Affair introduces readers to billionaire eco-philanthropist Charles Langham, a man determined to tackle humanity’s greatest crises head-on. Faced with global famine, rampant deforestation, and the growing extinction of species, Langham challenges world leaders to take meaningful action — and gives them one week to respond before he takes matters into his own hands.
Langham’s bold ultimatum at the United Nations sparks outrage, especially from U.S. President Mike Read, who labels him an eco-terrorist and launches a campaign to stop him. What begins as a moral stand quickly escalates into an international standoff, with Langham pitted against the full force of a superpower. As he pushes his mission, he uncovers deep-seated conspiracies and shadowy agendas that extend far beyond political brinkmanship.
This gripping thriller blends high-stakes adventure, political intrigue, and deep-rooted environmental themes, following Langham as he battles global institutions, navigates international conflict, and fights to protect the planet.
Why This Book Matters
A timely story: Tackles real-world issues such as climate change, deforestation, and global inequity through the lens of fiction.
A compelling protagonist: Charles Langham is not just a visionary — he’s a flawed, determined leader whose mission challenges the status quo.
Thrilling and thought-provoking: From the United Nations to the high seas, the novel blends action with intellectual conflict.
Join Charles Langham’s journey — from an impassioned call for change to a global battle that tests his resolve, resources, and ideals.
Reviews
"I love a good political thriller and enjoyed this book. The concept was fun and I could picture it on the big screen. I really enjoyed the concept in The Pacific Affair. Given the state of the environment and the seeming inability of the world's governments to tackle the issues in a timely manner, I thought the story was intriguing. I loved that the whole Langham family was involved in the story and that Charles built an organization where so many people were able to dedicate themselves to the cause. The writing was a little stiff and while the tale is suspenseful, it was hard, at times, to believe Charles Langham's luck in always staying a step ahead of the forces working against him. I greatly appreciated the discussion about man's role in both harming and helping to save the earth. It's great food for thought. And the attention to detail, whether in descriptions of the amazing vehicles involved in the story or the political entities involved made the whole story more believable.”
"I Loved It!! Easy to read with suspense and action, danger and murder along the way. The two main characters are Charles Langham and the President of the United States. Charles lives on a superyacht. A billionaire who dedicates his money and time to environmental issues. Deforestation, endangered animals, and marine life. Feminine and other issues like the drug barons in Brazil. Charles takes on the UN, world leaders, and the president of the USA and uncovers a lot more than he expected. It’s fictional but underlying the story is true facts facing the planet at this time. How World leaders can make the commitment to save the world. The first chapter really draws you and makes you want to read more. The more I read the more it was harder to put down as it takes you from one adventure to another. My only small criticism for me is that there was a little too much dialogue between the characters in the first part of the book. But I understand that the author was trying to set the scene. The book was well thought out and well written. I can’t wait for the next installment of “The Atlantic Affair”. Review by Maureen Skilton.
"Charles Langham, billionaire, and environmentalist, is trying to save the world from its certain extinction through climate change. Helped by a team of highly qualified eco-warriors such as himself he soon comes up against one of his greatest adversaries- the morally bankrupt President of the United States. The first novel in an ongoing series “The Pacific Affair” by Gary Paul Stephenson takes the reader through a roller coaster of adventures and touches on subjects the global community is currently faced with. Climate change, political corruption, and greed are in the headlines right now but unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be a real-life Charles Langham sailing the world in his superyacht to save us. Although improbable in parts this novel would translate well to film. Although it does fit in an action genre the book's hero is, in fact, suffering from multiple sclerosis so his engagement with the villains of the piece is intellectual and technological making a nice change from the usual clichéd fight scenes. A good piece of escapism.” Review by Jen Longshaw.