First published 2016
John Dortmunder accepts what seems like a straightforward job. An African ambassador at the United Nations wants him to steal the Balabomo Emerald from a rival nation. The gem is famous, the pay is good, and Dortmunder has pulled off tougher heists before. He assembles his crew and they execute their burglary with skill and precision. Then everything falls apart. The emerald vanishes from their grasp just when success seemed certain. Now Dortmunder faces a choice. He could walk away and write off the loss. Instead, he decides to track down the gem no matter where it leads him. His pursuit takes him across the country by plane, train, and car. The hot rock stays just out of reach, but Dortmunder refuses to quit. This is more than a job now. It becomes a test of his pride as a professional thief.
Genres: adventure, mystery, crime, action
Vibes: fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: cat-and-mouse, professional-rivalry
Setting: Africa, United Nations, United States
Period: 20th-century
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