From Richard & Judy bestselling author Charity Norman comes another tense, multi-dimensional drama that explores with heart-thumping authenticity the very things that make us tick when our lives hang in the balance.

When a gunshot rings out during morning rush-hour at a busy London cafe, the lives of five strangers will never be the same again. But there is more to the situation than first meets the eye – and as the captives grapple with their own inner demons, the line between right and wrong starts to blur. Will the secrets they keep stop them from escaping with their lives?

‘Masterful, heartbreaking and compelling . . . a moving hymn to humanity’ Erin Kinsley, bestselling author of FOUND

‘A compelling and fresh premise leads to a tense, humane, and touching novel’ Claire McGowan

Charity Norman beautifully captures the fear, and the surprising solace, to be found in a situation that has gone way beyond a person’s control. In this elegantly told tale of the power of humanity to save and destroy, Charity’s writing is full of compassion and compulsion. Caroline Bond, bestselling author of THE SECOND CHILD

“Norman skilfully plays with our perceptions and sympathies in this tautly plotted, gripping and emotional read.” Clare Mackintosh, bestselling author of LET ME LIE

‘This is a compelling and moving novel that should introduce [Norman] to a whole new world of readers.’ Weekend Herald Canvas

‘The narrative is as tense and well-written as any Jodi Picoult drama… a terrific suspense novel’ Sunday Star-Times

‘While this certainly works as a siege thriller – much of the power comes from the slow reveal of the reasons behind the Ritalin-popping gunman’s actions . . . in a genre which often celebrates style over substance this is a compelling and moving novel which should bring Norman to a whole new world of readers’ New Zealand Herald

‘A devastating story wrapped in heartbreak with a beautiful ending to soothe the anguish’ – Booktopia