AustLit

'Dr. Mark Altree learns from Fiona Baxter about the disappearance in Adelaide of her brother, Russell, a former university colleague of his. There, Altree finds evidence of a break-in and suspects the burglar was looking for something specific. Altree’s life is shattered by news of a family disaster. Unable to handle the emotional turmoil of the personal tragedy and without a clue as to the whereabouts of Baxter, Altree accepts another exploration project in North America. A series of events leads Altree to Mexico where he becomes enmeshed in drug smuggling and kidnapping. Altree survives the failed exchange of the ransom but is abducted by bandits. While surviving life-threatening circumstances personal demons continue to haunt him.' (Publication summary)