The Defector is the 38th novel in the Killmaster series, first published in 1969. Set in Hong Kong, the story follows Nick Carter, an elite secret agent, as he tracks down Professor Loo, a scientist whose knowledge could give the Red Chinese protection against nuclear attacks. Carter must navigate a deadly game of betrayal, espionage, and seduction, facing a sadistic enemy spy while trying to stop a traitor who could endanger the U.S.