Hayden-Hoyle uncovers that Nessa has been manipulated both by people close to her and by governments intent on exploiting her work. A thrilling climax in the desert wastelands sees Nessa fighting to save both her life and that of the kidnapped child as she attempts to make her way home.

Hayden-Hoyle uncovers an international government cover-up in relation to the Stein wiretap and Ephra is drawn into making a fatal mistake. In Palestine, an act of terrorism stuns the Stein family and the wider international community and has far-reaching repercussions.

When a Palestinian businessman makes Nessa an offer regarding the cabling initiative in the Middle East, Nessa discovers the full cost of her release from captivity eight years ago.

As Atika and Nessa remain in captivity, the secret that will bond them forever is revealed. Meanwhile, an academic in Tel Aviv working at a university funded by the Steins uncovers corruption that could have far-reaching consequences.

Going back eight years, a younger Hayden-Hoyle climbs the ranks of MI6 whilst Nessa and Atika endure atrocities during their time held captive in Gaza and their captors scheme as to how she can best serve their cause.

Nessa's security advisor follows a lead as he hunts down the missing boy. Meanwhile, her brother Ephra makes a startling discovery that could blow the family, and its work, apart.

Nessa's past, including her kidnap eight years previously in Gaza, is dug up by MI6 boss Sir Hugh Hayden-Hoyle, who is intent on getting answers despite being blocked by the CIA.

Powerful businesswoman Nessa Stein is thrown head-first into a game of political cat-and-mouse when a Palestinian businessman with close connections to her family's empire is killed.