The Flame Tree by Kim H. Rasmussen

Danish businessman, Frank Grabowski, accepts a job as managing director of a car assembly plant in Nigeria with some scepticism. He has previously worked in West Africa and knows that there are always plenty of challenges awaiting in this part of the world. Nevertheless, it surprises Frank that, shortly after his arrival, people in the company and amongst his acquaintances experience dangerous and violent incidents. Not quite sure whether it is coincidence or a threat to his position as managing director, he tries to navigate the inflammatory situation which is aggravated further by corruption, fraud, armed robberies and kidnappings. Eventually, Frank understands the full picture and a definitive showdown with his adversaries is inevitable.