Despites China’s effort to maintain peace with its neighbors, its military and economic growth poses an undeniable threat. Regional states must account for a more powerful potential adversary in China, and China has become more ambitious in its efforts to control its surroundings. Historical baggage has only aggravated the situation, as China believes it is reclaiming its rightful place after a time of weakness and mistreatment, while other Asia-Pacific countries remember all too well their encounter with Chinese conflict and domination.

Through a careful consideration of historical factors and raw data, Denny Roy thoroughly examines the benefits and consequences of a more politically, economically, and militarily potent China. Since China’s intended sphere of influence encroaches on the autonomy of regional states, its attempts to increase its own security has diminished the security of its neighbors. Nevertheless, there is little incentive for states to change a status quo that is mostly good for China, and the PRC thrives through its participation in the global economy and multilateral institutions. Even so, Beijing remains extremely sensitive to challenges to the Chinese Communist Party’s legitimacy and believes it is entitled to exercise influence on its periphery. On these issues, nationalism trumps any reluctance to upset the international system, and diplomatic disputes regarding the islands in the South China Sea, as well as controversial relations with North Korea, continue to undermine assurances of positive behavior. Roy’s study reveals the actual dynamics working to make and unmake this volatile region, in which governments pursue China as a economic partner yet fear a future in which Beijing sets the rules of engagement.