February 2008 Book of the Month.

If you like high octane, relentless and hard-boiled crime thrillers this is the book for you. Joe Pike is an ex police man turned mercenary with a conscience. As a favour to an old friend he agrees to protect a rich socialite who is a target after accidentally becoming a key witness in a federal drug and money laundering case. But everything is not as it seems; government agents aren’t telling the whole truth and contract killers follow their every step. Definitely a book to be read in a single sitting.

Synopsis

A long time ago, Joe Pike asked for help. In return, he would, one day, be called upon to return the favour, no questions asked. That day has come.

Joe Pike is asked to protect the life of Larkin Conner Barkley, a spoiled rich girl who happens to be a federal witness in a major case. But someone is leaking information about their whereabouts, and the killers are getting all too close. So Pike he hatches a plan: disappear into the anonymous underbelly of Los Angeles, turn the tables, and hunt down the hunters.

Enlisting the help of Elvis Cole, Pike uncovers a web of lies and betrayals; even the cops aren't who they seem. But as the body count rises, it becomes clear that Pike's biggest threat may be the girl herself - an edgy, yet intensely vulnerable soul determined to destroy herself, unless Joe can fill the void in her bruised heart.

About the Author

Robert Crais is the author of the Elvis Cole novels. He has won the Macavity and Edgar awards and been nominated for an Edgar. He lives in L.A. with his wife and daughter.   More books by this author Author 'Like for Like' recommendation