'A fly-on-the-wall account of the momentous events around the birth of independence of Vietnam, by an author who clearly worked closely with Lord Louis Mountbatten in the tortuous path towards a negotiating position with Ho Chi-minh. Truly a revelation.'

In Absolute Secrecy reveals many moods, emotions and dramas in pursuit of an ideal.

Andrew Grant, as a Security Intelligence officer of the British Military Commission to Indo-China, finds himself totally engrossed in secret negotiations affecting the post-war political future of this fascinating Asian country. When Chinese Professor Lien appears at a Field Security HQ asking for an audience, Grant's ambitions grow. He knows this man by reputation as having a brilliant mind and that he is held in high regard by General Chiang Kai-shek.

Thus began an exciting and dangerous succession of events designed to bring together Lord Louis Mountbatten and Ho Chi-minh in discussions, with the aim to provide a form of independence for Vietnamese people. As unfolded, the story is multi-layered, with a compellingly elaborate plot and a denouement of tantalising speculation.

'Prelude to Vietnam'
About the Author: Major Edward Harris spent eight years' service overseas: the Royal Tank Regiment (RTR2) took him to the Western Desert from where he was transferred to Burma. There, British soldiers, and many from our Empire, suffered a terrible defeat at the hands of the Japanese. Recovering his health and with special training, he then led an Intelligence mission in Indo-China. He was placed on Reserve of Officers, retiring when fifty-five. Post-war, he travelled the world, taking up challenging international work. He was recalled from reserve to active duty during the Chinese Emergency in 1950 – to assist with his knowledge of security intelligence.