They call him El Condor de Muerte-the Condor of Death-but few know the true identity of Mexico’s most powerful cartel leader nor the extent of his power and influence. Fewer still are privy to his plans for the future of Mexico, and the destructive drug trade.

Undercover DEA agent Ray Cruz has spent months in a maximum-security federal prison, slowly earning the trust of a drug kingpin known as Carlo. When the DEA arranges an escape for Ray and Carlo, the young agent discovers that Carlo holds a high rank in the Condor’s well-organized and powerful cartel-an organization unknown to both Mexican and US authorities.

To hide so powerful an organization from the authorities in both nations requires exceptional influence in Mexican politics, and Ray quickly realizes the Condor’s talons dig deep into the highest echelons of power. At the same time, he discovers the Condor’s vision for the future of the cartels and Mexico-a vision the DEA agent finds unsettlingly appealing.

A tale of evil arising from the best of intentions, Until Philosophers Become Kings explores the gray and blurred lines of morality. No one knows what they’re capable of until their hand is forced.