Nothing could tear Detective Michael Bennett away from his new bride—except the murder of his best friend. NYPD master homicide investigator Michael Bennett and FBI abduction specialist Emily Parker have a history. When she fails to show at FBI headquarters in Washington, DC, Bennett ventures outside his jurisdiction. The investigation he undertakes is the most brilliant detective work of his career…and the most intensely personal. A portrait begins to emerge of a woman as adept at keeping secrets as forging powerful connections. A woman whose enemies had the means and the motives to silence her —and her protectors. Throughout the 1980s, I dreamed of being Indiana Jones. Travelling the world, studying civilisations, solving mysteries, and sharing this collective wisdom with the world (minus the “British Museum style” appropriation). As representation improved, I added Carmen San Diego and Lara Croft to my list. Unfortunately, my family constantly reminded there was no money in archaeology or history or anthropology. Not surprising, considering I would always end up spending my money on new books instead; especially mystery novels with maps. There is something so clever about a good mystery, filled with clues and hints to lead you towards the treasure or try to distract you away from it. It keeps the mind fresh and active. It leaves a feeling of accomplishment, learning new things or realising how much is already known. Most of us will never use this newfound knowledge to any great benefit… well, except that one time I won pub trivia thanks to the Temple of the Moon in Petra, famously used in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. As I said, I have a type. Mystery novels are always a treat, but there is something extra about mystery novels with maps. It’s all about finding the clues, deciphering the map, and answering the riddles. They give us that moment where we feel clever, worthy, and often a little better about ourselves. Sure, we’re often doing it from the comfort of our favourite reading nook, but it never takes away the joy of solving the mystery. I will follow any map for that joy, any day.
