Stephen Coonts

Tommy Carmellini was the best burglar in the business - until he got caught. But then he was given a choice. Go to prison or work for the CIA? No choice at all, and now he must use his unique talents in a desperate search for information and - ultimately - power. Originally published: 2004 An Askews Gold 2005 title.

Iran is on the move, instigating provocative military manoeuvres on land, air and sea. The CIA is urging caution, but Tommy Carmellini and Jake Grafton have information that Iran's covert nuclear programme is nearing completion. The religious fanatic who has seized control of the country is planning to hit US and Israeli targets.

While the US navy is distracted by hostile activity in the South China Sea, a nuclear weapon has been planted in the harbour of Norfolk, Virginia - the world's largest naval base. Jake Grafton, promoted to director of the CIA following the murder of his predecessor, is unaware of the insidious plot. Though he has received intelligence informing him that an attack is imminent; he does not know where; he does not know when. But he does know who to turn...