Mark Tanner is a man haunted by the ghosts of his past. Eighteen years in the British Special Air Service have left an indelible mark, both physically and mentally. He carries the weight of past missions, the weight of lives lost, and the weight of a silent, self-imposed exile from the world he once knew. His transition to civilian life has been anything but seamless, marked by the constant hum of a trauma that refuses to be silenced. The quietude of his new existence is shattered by a phone call from Dave, a former colleague, offering a job that pulls him back into a world he desperately tried to leave behind: close protection. His new assignment appears deceptively simple - protecting the family of a wealthy Russian businessman. But the opulent facade of wealth and privilege quickly reveals a dark underbelly, a simmering conspiracy, and a ruthless group of individuals determined to exact revenge. Mark finds himself thrust into a world that is both familiar and alien. The precision and tactics honed over years of military service are now applied to a different kind of battle, one that demands quick thinking, unwavering loyalty, and a profound understanding of human psychology. This is not simply a tale of action and suspense; it is an exploration of the human spirit, the enduring power of loyalty, and the long shadow cast by war. The narrative unfolds through Mark's first-person perspective, allowing the reader intimate access to his thoughts, fears, and unwavering determination to protect those under his care. The story delves into the psychological toll of his past while showcasing his exceptional skillset in the high-stakes world of close protection. Prepare for a relentless pace, punctuated by moments of intense action and gripping suspense, woven together with a complex exploration of the human cost of violence and the ongoing journey of recovery.
