I discovered that this was the third book in a series I hadn’t come across before but it really didn’t matter. I quickly got to know the characters and thoroughly enjoyed this excellent, fast paced thriller meaning I will certainly be looking out for more books by this author. Alex and his partner, Pip are experienced police hostage negotiators and after a particularly hard case they decide to take 2 weeks off and have a holiday in a remote part of Scotland where Tom Jamieson, Alex’s old sergeant is a game keeper. No sooner have they arrived than they become involved in a violent cat and mouse chase when a local Laird is targeted. They have to use all their skills to try and get out of the situation they find themselves in, particularly as Pip is seriously injured. This was such a good read, a perfect thriller that had me quickly turning the pages desperately trying to find out how it was all going to end. I really found it interesting reading about how negotiators work, something I knew next to nothing about before reading the book. The author was clearly in this line of work himself and this shines through. Alex and Pip were really great characters- I liked their personal relationship and how they complemented each other professionally as well . Pip comes over as calm, strong and brave particularly as she is badly injured throughout most of this story. Alex needs her input to keep going and help Tom try and find a way out of an incredibly difficult situation. For me this was a five star read and I highly recommend it. Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my advance copy.