by Stuart Woods
Part of Stone Barrington, book 30
First published 2014
Stone Barrington arrives in Los Angeles for a major political convention, expecting routine proceedings. Instead, he discovers chaos. A brilliant newcomer, someone close to Stone, has disrupted the expected order by presenting delegates with an unforeseen alternative. The convention floor buzzes with uncertainty as established alliances crumble and new partnerships form in shadowy backroom negotiations. Multiple positions now hang in the balance. Stone realizes that among the ambitious politicians and their entourages, certain individuals may exploit the disorder to advance darker agendas. He must rely on his diplomatic skills and strategic thinking to navigate the treacherous landscape of handshakes and secret bargains. Success demands identifying who can be trusted in an environment where loyalties shift hourly. The stakes escalate when Ed Eagle, the Santa Fe lawyer, resurfaces along with his dangerous ex-wife Barbara. Stone faces the challenge of orchestrating a favorable resolution while dangerous personal vendettas threaten to explode into the political arena.
Genres: suspense, mystery, crime, contemporary, action, political-thriller
Vibes: fast-paced, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, high-stakes
Setting: Los Angeles, Santa Fe
Period: Contemporary
320 pages · Hardcover · G.P. Putnam's Sons