'I took a short trip to Estonia one winter, when the snow lay thickly on the ground. The old part of Talinn was special. The people were helpful and friendly, yet I did sense a definite atmosphere of unease caused by their Eastern neighbour. This encouraged the idea of a novel set partly in their country. I love being in the Swiss Alps where I feel safe, well looked after and secure. For me, the mountains have been a haven of peace, for quiet moments, for happiness and thought, but also for recovery from turbulent times. Hence the 'safe house' in the mountains! So once more, Switzerland must be included. Nearer home, my mother's family and I have a special affinity with the Scottish Highlands. Travelling around to research the more remote areas was the greatest of fun. I would like to thank all the people who have helped me from these three completely different, yet stunningly beautiful, parts of the world.'

Dr Marc Neilson, his wife and friends put a protective shield around Ellie, who flies to a safe refuge in the stunning snow laden mountains of Switzerland. Romance blossoms, but others of dubious reputation are already residing in a luxurious hotel above the town of Gstaad. Marc takes his wife and pregnant friend Adriana to his uncle's lodge in the beautiful Scottish Highlands. How do the situations between the men and the women, in three dissimilar countries, relate? Through their MI6 links, the men discover chilling information. Could Ellie's abductor have anything to do with Russia's political agenda towards Estonia? Far from home, well organised help is at hand, but will the men, in their mysterious dark world, be able to keep the women safe and at the same time coordinate their operation to ensure that Russia does not, once more, walk across the Estonian border!