In the forests of the world, the mighty tiger is rapidly disappearing, hunted for its bones which are a traditional ingredient in homeopathic medicines. James Burlane, former CIA agent, is called in to break up a ruthless smuggling ring which is systematically and horribly exterminating the tigers in an effort to corner the market. Complicating his search for the smugglers is one vicious serial killer, who is leaving a string of young women"s bodies, painted like big cats, from Germany to the Philippines. Part suspense novel, part environmental treatise, this novel amply demonstrates the terror of a beautiful species fighting to survive.