"The Lord of Opium" is a novel by Nancy Farmer that serves as a sequel to her earlier book, The House of the Scorpion. The story follows Matteo Alacrán, a young clone of the powerful drug lord El Patrón, as he navigates the challenges of his identity and the world around him. Set in the futuristic land of Opium, a strip of land between Mexico and the United States, the novel explores themes of power, morality, and the consequences of the drug trade. As Matteo inherits El Patrón's empire, he faces moral dilemmas and the expectations placed upon him. He must decide whether to continue the legacy of opium production or forge a new path for himself and the people around him. The narrative delves into issues of freedom, humanity, and the impact of choices on both individuals and society.