This story is almost a prequel to the series being set before the first book. Ben is living in Ireland working as kidnap & rescue operative and leading a lonely dedicated live. He is asked for help by a historian but in a moment of impatience the transaction is completed and Ben returns to his isolated home. Unfortunately he drags trouble with him and when there is a botched attempt on his life Ben seeks revenge.

This is full of action and what one would expect from Ben Hope, ex-SAS, out for revenge. He is resourceful but, unlike later books in the series, makes some big mistakes that could put an end to everything. It leads to an ending that is a bit far fetched and slightly lets down the book. But it's still enjoyable.

The underlying historical theme running in the background is informative, although fictional in parts, as it attempts to answer a centuries old mystery.