- Table View
- List View
Hermanos
by Miss BlackEl asesino en serie apodado por la prensa como «el Vampiro» lleva casi diez años matando con total impunidad. Cuelga a sus víctimas bocabajo y las desangra. Pero los hombres a los que mata están todos manchados por el más obsceno de los crímenes: abuso de menores. Por eso hay quien cree que el Vampiro no va a ser castigado nunca, ya que en cierto sentido hace que las calles sean más seguras. Sin embargo, ahora un nuevo indicio arroja otra luz a sus delitos. El ADN del Vampiro aparece en otras escenas del crimen, y esta vez sus víctimas son mujeres jóvenes e inocentes. Para parar definitivamente al monstruo, el FBI se apoya en una asesora de mucho renombre. Se trata de Almond Holt, hija de un asesino, que se dedica a trazar perfiles. Gracias a su sensibilidad única y a la vez quizás molesta, Almond se acerca a la verdad... una verdad oscura que profundiza en las raíces del doloroso pasado de dos hermanos. Solo su conciencia podrá distinguir a las víctimas de sus verdugos...
Hermelin the Detective Mouse
by Mini GreyRatatouille meets Sherlock Holmes in this heartwarming story of mystery and adventure, acceptance and friendship, by the acclaimed creator of Traction Man and Toys in Space. Hermelin is a special little mouse. He was born in a box of cheese and lives in an attic at 33 Offley Street. He can read books and type notes on his typewriter. Most importantly, Hermelin can solve mysteries. And the people of Offley Street are in need of a detective! Again and again, Hermelin is on the case—the anonymous hero. But when his neighbors invite him to a thank-you party in his honor and find out who Hermelin really is—a MOUSE!—will he still be welcome on Offley Street?
Hermit's Peak: A Kevin Kerney Novel (Kevin Kerney Ser. #Bk. 4)
by Michael McGarrityHermit’s Peak is a seminal novel in the crime fiction series that places New Mexico lawman Kevin Kerney in the pantheon with Tony Hillerman’s heroes—while carving out territory that is distinctly his own across the American Southwest.When Kevin Kerney, deputy chief of the New Mexico State Police, inherits an unexpected windfall of 6,400 acres of high-county land, the last thing he wants to think about is work. But while visiting his new property, he comes across an ailing stray dog that leads him to the butchered bones of a murder victim near the rugged mountain of Hermit's Peak. After assigning the case to his subordinates, Kerney returns to Santa Fe to spend time with a woman he cares about, Sara Brannon, a career army officer who is visiting him on holiday. But his time with Sara must wait, as he is called back to Hermit's Peak when another body is found at a remote cabin. Now, Kerney must unearth the shattering truth about his new land and follow a twisting trail of blood through the majestic landscape of the American Southwest.
Hermit: the international bestseller and stunningly original crime thriller
by S. R. WhiteHE DISAPPEARED FOR 15 YEARS...UNTIL THE DAY OF THE MURDER. *** THE INTERNATIONAL TOP TEN BESTSELLER***'Taut, beautifully observed...with an explosive finish.' PETER MAY'Original, compelling and highly recommended. S. R. White is the real deal.' CHRIS HAMMER'A fascinating case'SUNDAY TIMES CRIME CLUB PICKAfter a puzzling death in the wild bushlands of Australia, detective Dana Russo has just 12 hours to interrogate the prime suspect - a silent, inscrutable man found at the scene of the crime, who disappeared without trace 15 years earlier.But where has he been? Why won't he talk? And exactly how dangerous is he? Without conclusive evidence to prove his guilt, Dana faces a desperate race against time to persuade him to speak. But as each interview spirals with fevered intensity, Dana must reckon with her own traumatic past to reveal the shocking truth . . .Compulsive, atmospheric and stunningly accomplished, HERMIT introduces a thrilling new voice in Australian crime fiction, perfect for fans of Jane Harper's THE DRY and Chris Hammer's SCRUBLANDS.'It draws you in - and rewards with a truly powerful ending.' HEAT (Read of the week)'This slow-burn novel catches light' THE SUN'A dark and compulsive read' WOMAN & HOME
Hermit: the international bestseller and stunningly original crime thriller
by S. R. WhiteHE DISAPPEARED FOR 15 YEARS...UNTIL THE DAY OF THE MURDER. *** THE INTERNATIONAL TOP TEN BESTSELLER***'Taut, beautifully observed...with an explosive finish.' PETER MAY'Original, compelling and highly recommended. S. R. White is the real deal.' CHRIS HAMMER'A fascinating case' SUNDAY TIMES CRIME CLUB PICKAfter a puzzling death in the wild bushlands of Australia, detective Dana Russo has just 12 hours to interrogate the prime suspect - a silent, inscrutable man found at the scene of the crime, who disappeared without trace 15 years earlier.But where has he been? Why won't he talk? And exactly how dangerous is he? Without conclusive evidence to prove his guilt, Dana faces a desperate race against time to persuade him to speak. But as each interview spirals with fevered intensity, Dana must reckon with her own traumatic past to reveal the shocking truth . . .Compulsive, atmospheric and stunningly accomplished, HERMIT introduces a thrilling new voice in Australian crime fiction, perfect for fans of Jane Harper's THE DRY and Chris Hammer's SCRUBLANDS.'It draws you in - and rewards with a truly powerful ending.' HEAT (Read of the week)'This slow-burn novel catches light' THE SUN'A dark and compulsive read' WOMAN & HOME
Hermit: the international bestseller and stunningly original crime thriller
by S. R. WhiteHE DISAPPEARED FOR 15 YEARS...SHE HAS 12 HOURS TO FIND OUT WHY.After a puzzling death in the wild bushlands of Australia, detective Dana Russo has just hours to interrogate the prime suspect - a silent, inscrutable man found at the scene of the crime, who disappeared without trace 15 years earlier.But where has he been? Why won't he talk? And exactly how dangerous is he? Without conclusive evidence to prove his guilt, Dana faces a desperate race against time to persuade him to speak. But as each interview spirals with fevered intensity, Dana must reckon with her own traumatic past to reveal the shocking truth . . .Compulsive, atmospheric and stunningly accomplished, HERMIT introduces a thrilling new voice in Australian crime fiction, perfect for fans of Jane Harper and Chris Hammer.(P)2020 Headline Publishing Group Ltd
Hermosas Mentiras: Terapia de Romance (La serie de Amanda Libro 2 #2)
by Ikechukwu JosephHermosas Mentiras: Terapía de Romance (La Serie de Amanda Libro 2) es una continuación de "Vuelve a Mí" (La Serie de Amanda Libro 1). Cómo arriesgó el su vida para salvar a su joven esposa Amanda y terminó en el quinto mundo de la madre tiburón en el océano. La última viita de la madre tiburón fue como un tren nupcial, glamoroso con sus guardias reales de escolta, todos vigilando por cualquier intruso o impostor. Algo inusual sucedió cuando los guardias que estaban a cargo se detuvieron a pocos metros de la jaula para cazar tiburones. La madre se acercó a la jaula sentimental o románticamente, y estas criaturas marinas la observaban como espectadores. OM encontró su ambiente iluminado y cálido. Su cuerpo, hasta entonces casi congelado, recibió calor... Fue recibido sentimental y románticamente en el reino de la quinta columna y por la hermosa dama de la madre tiburón. Escapó de varios obstáculos - el reino acuático, piratas, un cartel, la prisión, para poder reunirse con Amanda, la joven que con el apoyo de la ONU por los derechos de los niños, las mujeres y los derechos humanos decidió buscar justicia para los oprimidos en un mundo de ricos y poderosos. ¿Tendrá ella éxito? Lee la emocionante historia de la joven Amanda - una historia de amor, romance, violación, divorcio, lucha por la justicia, derechos del niño, derechos de las mujeres, verdad curativa, perdón... un desafío para los adolescente y adultos jóvenes, los adultos e incluso los mayores. Consigue tu copia para ti y tus amigos.
Hero Complex: A Keaton School Novel
by Margaux Froley70 years after Pearl Harbor drew the US into World War II, a sinister secret--remnants of covert research done by the Army--haunts the Keaton School.Less than two months have passed since Devon Mackintosh uncovered the truth about the apparent suicide of Keaton's golden boy and her unrequited love, Hutch. But solving Hutch's murder has put all eyes on her in the small Keaton School community. When she is knocked unconscious on a New Year's Eve cruise, it's clear that her life is in danger, too. In the aftermath of the attack, Devon must attend a weekly meeting with Dr. Jocelyn Hsu, a shrink who refuses to believe Devon's account of the "accident."With nowhere else to go, Devon turns to the only people she can trust: Hutch's terminally ill grandfather, Reed, and his heirs, Bodhi and Raven. Before Reed dies, he gives Devon a mysterious journal from his youth, revealing a secret pact among three powerful families. In the face of very real threats, Devon fights to unearth the truth Reed's enemies are still willing to kill for.From the Hardcover edition.
Hero Dog!: A Branches Book (Hilde Cracks the Case #1)
by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff Matthew Lysiak Hilde LysiakPick a book. Grow a Reader! This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line Branches, aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow! 9-year old crime reporter, Hilde Lysiak, is starring in her very own early chapter book series -- inspired by news stories Hilde wrote in real life! In this first book, there's been a break-in on Orange Street! Cupcakes have been stolen, and soon a pie goes missing, too. Hilde and her sister/photographer, Izzy, must interview witnesses and follow the clues. Can Hilde crack the case in time to post her news story online? Joanne Lew-Vriethoff's personality-filled illustrations appear on every page, bringing Hilde's adventures to life for young readers!
Hero Needed
by Shay LacySome heroes are born and some are forged by events.Marisa’s best friend Carolyn is killed by a train, but then Carolyn’s husband claims she committed suicide. Proving he’s wrong will be a heroic feat. EMT Nick Stark seems a natural for the job.Yet the truths Marisa and Nick uncover spark unexpected danger. Does the secret of Marisa’s parentage tie in with Carolyn’s death? And is Marisa prepared to face the truth in order to identify whoever now wants her dead?Sensuality Level: Sensual
Hero Under Cover
by Suzanne BrockmannWhen Pete Taylor first offered his services as a bodyguard, Annie Morgan wanted nothing to do with him. She was sure that the death threats against her weren't serious. While the Native American mask she was working on was valuable, it wasn't worth killing for. One murder attempt later, Annie was glad to have Pete around. She owed him her life. Suddenly she was beginning to believe in heroes--and dreams. But Pete wasn't a fantasy--he was real, and at the moment he was the only person she could allow herself to trust, no matter who he was.
Hero Under Cover: The Bodyguard And Ms. Jones; Hero Under Cover (Mills And Boon Intrigue Ser.)
by Suzanne BrockmannA fan favorite from New York Times bestselling author Suzanne Brockmann. When Pete Taylor first offers his services as a bodyguard, Annie Morgan wants nothing to do with him. She's sure that the death threats against her aren't serious. After all, while the artifact she's working on is valuable, it's certainly not worth killing for. But after someone does make an attempt on her life, Annie is glad to have Pete around. She owes him her life, and suddenly, she's beginning to believe in heroes again. And Pete is now the only person she can allow herself to trust. Originally published in 1994.
Hero for Hire (Childfinders, Inc. #4)
by Marie FerrarellaHIS ONLY FEARKidnapped as a boy, Chad Andreini had devoted his lifeto rescuing abducted children. But this anguished mother wasdifferent. Alluring Veronica Lancaster stirred within Chad along-buried desire to belong somewhere—and made more painful thestark dread that he never would…HER ONLY HOPE Trusting a total stranger with her precious child's lifewasn't easy for Veronica, but walking away from Chad would have beeneven harder. Her child's safe return was all she wanted from thiscomforting yet cryptic man, until the night they turned to each otherin lonely desperation—and undeniable desire…
Hero in Disguise
by Leona KarrCHARITY BEGINS AT HOME...And Melissa Chanley’s apartment was much too cramped for two rambunctious, motherless little boys. But they needed more than spacious accommodations and a foster mom. They needed a father figure to look after and love them. In desperation, Melissa turned to the one man who might be able to help-and the last man likely to become a dad...or husband.Busy attorney David Ardell reluctantly agreed to house the young orphans and their temporary caregiver in his sprawling home, though he never expected that the move would make him feel like the head of a family-much less battle a fierce attraction to a spiritual woman like Melissa....
Hero of Olympus (The Heracles Trilogy)
by Glyn IliffeSurpass all odds, break the chains, defeat a God—the thrilling, triumphant final installment in The Heracles Trilogy that began with Son of Zeus. Heracles&’ trials are far from over. Carrying the weight of the heavens, accompanied only by his most loyal friend, Iolaus, he will do anything to atone for his crimes. But all is not as it seems. Gods and men alike plot against him . . . First Heracles must obtain the girdle of the Amazonian Queen, Hippolyta, steal cattle from the monstrous Geryon, and take apples from the Garden of Hesperides. Through it all Heracles will come to realize his betrayal is more complete than he could ever have imagined. Ultimately, to release himself from his suffering, he must journey deep into Hades, and face death itself . . .
Hero's Haven (Dark Protectors #11)
by Rebecca ZanettiHe’s her darkest fantasy. . . After years of struggling, Haven Daly has finally accepted that she’s nuttier than a fruitcake. Why else would she see visions of a beautiful but tormented male every night . . . and actually believe she can talk to him, even feel his touch? But thanks to those dream journeys, she can paint images nobody else on earth can duplicate. In each brush stroke, she captures the blatant masculinity and raw desire in his eyes that promise he’s coming for her…and soon. She’s the light that keeps him going. . . Quade Kayrs has already suffered a lifetime of pain and torture. Completely isolated, he kept his sanity thanks to one beautiful female, a vision with kind emerald eyes. In the end, her soft voice led him out of hell. Now, naked and alone, he’s in a strange world that bears little resemblance to the one he left behind. All he knows is Haven. All he wants is Haven. His final mission? To protect her from the evil hunting them both—whether she likes it or not . . . “Spicy romantic interplay; highly recommended.”—Library Journal on Vampire’s Faith “Sizzling sex scenes and a memorable cast.”—Publishers Weekly on Claimed “A fast-paced, excitement-filled explosion of action… Zanetti keeps getting better.”—RT Book Reviews on Marked, 4.5 Stars Top Pick
Hero's Haven (Dark Protectors #11)
by Rebecca ZanettiHe’s her darkest fantasy. . . After years of struggling, Haven Daly has finally accepted that she’s nuttier than a fruitcake. Why else would she see visions of a beautiful but tormented male every night . . . and actually believe she can talk to him, even feel his touch? But thanks to those dream journeys, she can paint images nobody else on earth can duplicate. In each brush stroke, she captures the blatant masculinity and raw desire in his eyes that promise he’s coming for her…and soon. She’s the light that keeps him going. . . Quade Kayrs has already suffered a lifetime of pain and torture. Completely isolated, he kept his sanity thanks to one beautiful female, a vision with kind emerald eyes. In the end, her soft voice led him out of hell. Now, naked and alone, he’s in a strange world that bears little resemblance to the one he left behind. All he knows is Haven. All he wants is Haven. His final mission? To protect her from the evil hunting them both—whether she likes it or not . . . “Spicy romantic interplay; highly recommended.”—Library Journal on Vampire’s Faith “Sizzling sex scenes and a memorable cast.”—Publishers Weekly on Claimed “A fast-paced, excitement-filled explosion of action… Zanetti keeps getting better.”—RT Book Reviews on Marked, 4.5 Stars Top Pick
Hero's Journey (Novella) (A Sweet Pepper Fire Brigade)
by J. J. CookA hot dog and a hot head are on the loose in Sweet Pepper, Tennessee, and it's up to Fire Chief Stella Griffin to collar them both... The Sweet Pepper Fire Brigade's newly adopted Dalmatian puppy, Hero, is missing. Stella believes he just wandered away from her cabin and got lost. But despite posters and searches by the fire brigade and spotty sightings by locals, there are no leads, and the furry fire fighter has yet to return. Stella is already worried with a series of progressively dangerous arson fires plaguing Sweet Pepper. And oddly enough, Hero's appearances are coinciding with the fires. Now with the help of the ghost of Sweet Pepper's former fire chief, Stella will have to dig up some clues if she hopes to find the pup before he's lost for good--and find the arsonist before someone loses a life. Includes a preview of the Sweet Pepper Fire Brigade Mystery, Playing with Fire
Hero: A Novel
by Thomas PerryA private security agent finds that being branded as the City of Angels’ latest hero could also make her its next victim.… Justine Poole takes her job seriously providing security for wealthy and high-profile Hollywood stars. When she prevents a brazen robbery at the Beverly Hills home of two of her clients—killing two of the five armed robbers in the process—she is initially lauded in the media as a local hero. But the spotlight soon puts her in the crosshairs of the crime kingpin behind the burglaries. Unable to stand the embarrassment of his lackeys having been defeated by a lone woman, Mr. Conger puts in a call to the one man who can make his problems disappear. Known for his swiftness and subtlety, Leo Sealy will kill anyone for a price. All he needs is a name and a face, any starting point to pick up his victim’s trail. Luckily for him, the local news is as eager as he is for any information about the heroic bodyguard—and quick to broadcast their findings, regardless of what it might mean for her safety. But Sealy isn’t prepared for just how quick and resourceful Justine can be. So begins a cat and mouse game between two people who know more about how to take down one’s enemies than anyone else in the business. Justine finds herself up against both a hardened killer and a fickle media landscape that can just as soon turn on her as celebrate her in this high-stakes thriller from the author of The Old Man.
Hero: Rescue Mission (Hero Ser. #3)
by Jennifer Li ShotzThe adventure continues in the third installment of the #1 New York Times bestselling Hero series by Jennifer Li Shotz.Ben and Hero, the incredible search-and-rescue dog, have saved the day before—but never like this. Ben’s town is in trouble when two convicts escape from a nearby prison. His dad, a police officer, sets off to find the men and bring them to justice, but then Ben’s dad disappears and the trail goes cold.Ben knows that it’s up to him and Hero to solve the case. As they embark on their most dangerous mission yet, the two best friends must stock up on their bravery and courage in order to outwit the fugitives and bring Ben’s dad home. Are the two heroes up to the challenge?Get ready for another canine adventure full of danger, loyalty, and the unbreakable bond between a boy and his best friend.
Herobrine's War: The Birth of Herobrine Book Three: A Gameknight999 Adventure: An Unofficial Minecrafter?s Adventure (Gameknight999 Series #3)
by Mark ChevertonA massive war in Minecraft’s past will determine the fate of the present!One hundred years in Minecraft’s past, foiled by a time-traveling Gameknight999, the evil virus Herobrine has gone mad with rage. Now determined to wipe every NPC alive off the server as punishment for meddling with his plans, he crafts a new monster king to lead a devastating aerial assault.Gameknight, his true identity still a secret, is stunned when a vicious ghast army, commanded by a terrifying monster that the User-that-is-not-a-user remembers all too well, arrives at the village he’s protecting and unleashes wave after wave of unthinkable terror.With his army overpowered and outnumbered, Gameknight realizes they have no chance of defeating Herobrine and this new army out in the open Overworld. If he’s to save Minecraft from complete annihilation (which would destroy everyone in the present day as well) he’ll need to turn the tables on his greatest nemesis. As the forces of darkness slowly close in around them, one question remains: Will he defeat this enemy before the future of Minecraft is changed forever?Sky Pony Press, with our Good Books, Racehorse and Arcade imprints, is proud to publish a broad range of books for young readers-picture books for small children, chapter books, books for middle grade readers, and novels for young adults. Our list includes bestsellers for children who love to play Minecraft; stories told with LEGO bricks; books that teach lessons about tolerance, patience, and the environment, and much more. While not every title we publish becomes a New York Times bestseller or a national bestseller, we are committed to books on subjects that are sometimes overlooked and to authors whose work might not otherwise find a home.
Heroes Proved
by Oliver NorthA gripping, tightly crafted, action-packed thriller from the man President Ronald Reagan called "an American hero." #1 bestselling author Oliver North applies his extensive experience as a combat-decorated U.S. Marine and counterterrorism expert in this explosive novel of global intrigue, military action, and cutting-edge suspense. It's the year 2032, and the president claims America is now safe from terror. We're told Iranian nuclear weapons no longer menace our citizens. Leaders in Washington insist that United Nations treaties and innovative technologies can protect us and assure peace in our time. To save money, "Progressives," holding power in our capital, have cut the U.S. Armed Forces to the bone. But when the city of Houston is targeted by suicide bombers--and Dr. Martin Cohen, America's foremost physicist, is kidnapped--the brilliantly executed attack sends shock waves around the globe. The price of fuel skyrockets. With the U.S. economy on the brink of catastrophe, leaders in Washington look for a scapegoat--instead of our missing scientist. Enter Peter Newman, a highly decorated U.S. Marine war hero, veteran of multiple high-risk covert operations--and Naval Academy roommate of Dr. Marty Cohen. The precarious quest to find and rescue his friend puts the entire Newman family in lethal peril--and exposes the most ominous threat to the United States in our nation's history. Only someone who has actually "been there, done that" could write this book. Filled with heart-stopping action, authentic detail, and blistering tension, Heroes Proved is the most riveting work yet from national security expert, master novelist, and real-life war hero Oliver North.
Heroes of Horseshoe Creek Collection Volume 1: Lock, Stock and McCullen\McCullen's Secret Son\Roping Ray McCullen (The Heroes of Horseshoe Creek #1)
by Rita HerronThese three classic tales featuring the Heroes of Horseshoe Creek will make you fall in love with USA TODAY bestselling author Rita Herron all over again!Lock, Stock and McCullen (originally published in Harlequin Intrigue in 2015)Sherriff Maddox McCullen’s investigation into the death of Rose Worthington’s fiancé—by her own hand…in self-defense—becomes an even bigger mystery when he finds nothing at the crime scene. No bullet casing, no blood, no body. Now, with Rose caught in the crosshairs of escalating danger he’ll stop at nothing to keep her safe.McCullen’s Secret Son (originally published in Harlequin Intrigue in 2015)Sexy-as-sin rodeo star Brett McCullen is Willow James Howard’s past. But when her estranged husband is killed and her son kidnapped, she’s forced to accept help from the man who broke her heart. Little does Brett know that the very child he’s trying to rescue is his own flesh and blood. With the ransom deadline looming, Brett must go to extremes to save the family he never knew he wanted…Roping Ray McCullen (originally published in Harlequin Intrigue in 2016)Ray McCullen left Horseshoe Creek and vowed to never look back. Until his father’s funeral brings him home. That’s where he meets Scarlet Lovett, who seems to know more about his family’s secrets than he does. Secrets ready to explode. Suddenly, Ray is at the center of an inheritance battle—and Scarlet is caught in the middle. Can their attraction survive the danger…and lead them to a shared future?
Heroes of Horseshoe Creek Collection Volume 2: Warrior Son\The Missing McCullen\The Last McCullen (The Heroes of Horseshoe Creek #4)
by Rita HerronThree sexy heroes will do anything to protect the women they love in these classic tales from USA TODAY bestselling author Rita Herron!Warrior Son (originally published in Harlequin Intrigue in 2016)Deputy Sheriff Roan Whitefeather never thought he’d set foot on Horseshoe Creek. But when the ranch’s patriarch dies unexpectedly, Roan suspects foul play. And so does Dr. Megan Lail. Roan has been trying to avoid the beautiful medical examiner since the one incredible night they spent in each other’s arms. But crossing paths again only stirs up old feelings—and an even older web of murder and deception. The deeper he investigates, the more he realizes everyone has secrets. And Roan holds the biggest secret of them all…The Missing McCullen (originally published in Harlequin Intrigue in 2017)Defense attorney BJ Alexander is crafty, brilliant, and deeply scarred by the loss of her husband and child. Hired by the McCullen family, who believe Cash Koker to be their lost brother, BJ commits to the case—and vows not to become entangled with her devastatingly handsome client. But nothing can prepare Cash when charges are mistakenly brought against him. Now not only is Cash’s life at stake, but so is that of a missing little boy… The Last McCullen (originally published in Harlequin Intrigue in 2017)Tia Jeffries’s infant son has been abducted and Special Agent Ryder Banks is determined to find her baby. So the pretty single mom agrees to ditch the gun and work undercover with the sexy agent. Posing as a couple desperate to adopt, they find a murky world of baby brokers, scams—and a connection to the McCullens, Ryder’s birth family. When bullets start flying, Ryder risks everything to make Tia and her baby his own…
Herokiller: A Novel
by Paul Tassi“An incredible new voice in sci-fi. The kind of writer who keeps you turning the pages long into the night.”—A.G. Riddle, bestselling author of The Atlantis Gene and PandemicReady Player One meets Gladiator in this high-octane thriller that mixes black-ops espionage with fight-to-the-death combat in the arena. In the near future, the line between entertainment and brutality has blurred. Mysterious billionaire Cameron Crayton is a household name from televised spectacles in which prison inmates fight to the death, but his old shows pale in comparison to his new event, The Crucible, a gladiatorial tournament anyone can enter. The winner is promised unimaginable wealth and glory . . . if they’re able to survive a series of globally broadcast fight-to-the-death matches with medieval weaponry against the world’s most fearsome fighters. Former black-ops operative Mark Wei wants nothing more than to be left alone to drink after sacrificing everything?including his family?in America’s covert Cold War II against China, a war won largely because of him. But there are rumors that Crayton’s background and business dealings involve shady connections to foreign powers, and soon Mark is convinced to reluctantly dust off his training, strap on a sword and armor, and enter the tournament arena as an undercover agent. It’s the most dangerous assignment he’s ever been given, and Mark quickly finds himself not just fighting for his life in the arena against trained killers, but racing to expose The Crucible’s founder’s secrets while navigating a viral phenomenon in which the stakes are literally life and death. . . .