Lt. Col. Hunt Daniels, detailed from the Pentagon to the White House National Security Council, attends the Congressional hearing and learns about the Q3 technology from Cammy’s presentation. Hunt understands the potential for her unique technology: not only can it save the government millions, it can also save lives. But, in the wrong hands, Q3 could completely alter the balance of power throughout the world.

Militant terrorists have stolen three Pakistani missiles and launched the first against an Indian army base. The U.S. President does whatever is necessary to maintain peace between these two countries, and also arranges for Hunt and other high-ranking representatives to fly to New Delhi to investigate the stolen missiles, then attend a ceremony at the Taj Mahal.

When the terrorist leader learns about Cammy’s technology, he sends an agent, Jambaz, to Washington, DC, with orders to steal Dr. Talbot’s system for their use. Failing that, Jambaz has orders to kill her.

The tension and intrigue quickly escalate on both fronts. Cammy’s home computer is stolen, her car is forced off the road, and an assassination attempt on her life kills a co-worker. Meanwhile, the terrorists train one missile at New Delhi, saving the biological warhead for the Taj Mahal ceremonies.

The Honorable Karna Small Bodman, who worked as a Senior Director for the National Security Council at the White House, brings extensive insight and knowledge to her first release. She provides a unique insider’s view of the White House, a chilling discussion of our defense systems, and an all-too-real political scenario in Checkmate, a gripping, edge-of-your-seat international political thriller where not just one life, but thousands are at stake. Top that with just the right touch of human interest and you have a definite, exciting keeper. Checkmate held me spellbound from the first page to the last, and I eagerly await the follow-up novel, Gambit.