It begins with an innocent missiona ] Emily Hudson is an artifacts expert for the U.N. who travels to war torn countries attempting to save their priceless treasures from destruction. Her best friend and partner, Joel Levy, is always at her side - until one day her entire crew comes under attack. Joel and Emily are held hostage by a ruthless and evil captor who is determined to find the missing link to a legendary treasure. For weeks they struggle to survive against terrifying odds, pushed to their limits a " and beyond. That turns into a quest for revengea ] John Garrett has worked for the CIA, MI6, and whoever else was willing to pay for his services. Now Washington is calling and desperate. The mission: save Emily Hudson and Joel Levy. But there may be more to the job than they reveala ] And soon, his connection to Emily has him questioning everything he thought to be true. Can Emily help him get to the truth behind a bigger conspiracy? Or will they both die trying? With lightning-fast pacing, plot twists and shocking betrayals, Iris Johansen is at the top of her game in a thriller about vengeance and trust; friendship and loyalty; good and evila ]