Part of Alex Delaware, book 10
First published 2003
Psychologist Alex Delaware receives an unexpected invitation from Dr. Woodrew Moreland, a distinguished scientist living on a remote Pacific island. Moreland claims he needs Alex's help organizing research papers for publication. The assignment seems simple enough, so Alex brings his girlfriend Robin along for what promises to be a working vacation in paradise. The island's crystal waters and pristine beaches initially deliver on their promise. But Alex soon notices strange undercurrents. Mysterious houseguests come and go without explanation. Visitors arrive unannounced and leave quickly. The supposedly straightforward work feels like a pretext. Alex's detective instincts kick in. Why did Moreland really summon him to this isolated place? His investigation uncovers an ugly reality behind the tropical facade. The truth arrives just as danger closes in on both Alex and Robin. What began as a peaceful retreat becomes a fight for survival against forces that want to silence them permanently.
Genres: adventure, suspense, mystery, psychological-thriller
Vibes: fast-paced, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: fish-out-of-water, investigation
Setting: Pacific Island
416 pages · Paperback · Ballantine Books