#7 in the Freehold Universe series. Science fiction high adventure with a compulsive thriller edge. High tech near-future mercenaries Ripple Creek Security must protect an obnoxious world government minister from the tons of enemies who want her dead—and killed in the worse possible way.<br><br>Alex Marlow and Ripple Creek Security's best personal security detail return to action. This time, they <i>really</i> don't like their principal, World Bureau Minister Joy Herman Highland–a highly-placed bureaucrat with aspirations to elected office. Even worse, Highland’s assistant wants to publicize every movement and action for his boss’s pending campaign, which is anathema to good security.<BR> <BR>With a person of this status, it's not a case of someone wanting her dead. The only question is how <i>many</i> people want her dead, and what are they bringing to the fight?<BR> <BR>The enemies are from without, within and all over. They have resources, funding and political cover. Ripple Creek needs to be cautious.<BR> <BR>But the enemy also needs to worry. They’re going to be getting in each others' way in the process of carrying out their plans. And Ripple Creek has no qualms about explosions on galactic news. In fact, they enjoy it.<BR> <BR> <BR> <b>About Michael Z. Williamson:</b><BR> “A fast-paced, compulsive read…will appeal to fans of John Ringo, David Drake, Lois McMaster Bujold, and David Weber.” – <i>Kliatt</i><BR> <BR> “Williamson's military expertise is impressive.” –<i>SF Reviews</i>