Maverick FBI detective Amos Decker is plunged into a bewildering case when he witnesses a shocking murder-suicide outside FBI headquarters: a man executes a woman on a crowded sidewalk before turning the gun on himself. Despite Decker's extraordinary observational skills, the lack of any apparent connection between the shooter – a successful family man – and his victim – a schoolteacher – renders the motive elusive. The investigation takes an unexpected turn when Harper Brown, an agent from the Defense Intelligence Agency, intervenes, demanding Decker and his team step aside. The DIA reveals the murder is part of a highly classified investigation, suggesting critical intelligence may have been compromised and a national security threat is imminent. Forced into an uneasy alliance with Agent Brown, Decker must race against time to unravel the mystery and prevent a catastrophic international incident that could devastate the United States.
Critical Reception
"Praised as a "perfect 'fix' for the thriller aficionado" by the Associated Press, this #1 New York Times bestseller solidified David Baldacci's status as a master of suspense."