Book excerpt: From the master of the suspense novel comes another gripping tale of mystery, money, and mayhem that skillfully weaves together an elegant plot and compelling characters, once again. “I have your children. Don't call the police, or the’ll die.” It’s a nightmare no parent should ever endure. Especially Alice Glendenning, a South Florida real estate agent who hasn’t managed to sell a single home—or collect any insurance money—after her husband’s fatal boating accident. Her daughter and son’s kidnappers demand $250,000, the exact amount she’s supposed to receive from the insurance company. To complicate matters, her housekeeper has contacted the police—a glaring error in judgment that puts a spotlight on the crime, the children’s lives at risk…and Alice in jeopardy.