This is an engaging thriller with a plot that takes in hostages in the Sahara, MI5, the CIA and how terrorists might exploit the business models of large multinational corporations to fund their own activities. The story is also one of rivalries, especially within the CIA, although most of the action takes place on the coast of Kent, where the headquarters of Smith and Webb, a tobacco company is based. Leading the investigation into a series of murders is Sorrenson, whose partner, Kate Pendragon who is employed by Smith and Webb and who formerly worked for MI5. As one of the murder victims also worked for the firm, their investigations draw together and also attract the interest of MI5 when evidence of cigarette smuggling around the globe is revealed. At the same time, divisions in the CIA are exposed as it attempts to rescue a hundred hostages in the Sahara. In a tense and violent finale the truth is uncovered, but will it ever be made public?