THE ABDUCTION
America is just days away from the first presidential election in history in which neither candidate is a white male. At stake are the futures of the nation's two most charismatic leaders and the life of a twelve-year-old child whose disappearance may decide the election.
U.S. Attorney General Allison Leahy is the nation's top law enforcement officer and the Democrat's best chance for holding on to the Oval Office. But she has powerful opposition in Republican Lincoln Howe, a retired four-star army general and bona fide African-American hero. For months, the candidates have run neck and neck. As the countdown to election day begins, forecasters say the race could be the closest in history. Both sides need just one extra push to swing the election. And on Halloween morning, less than two weeks before the election, they get it.
A twelve year old girl is kidnapped on her way to school. The girl is Kristen Howe, Lincoln Howe's granddaughter.
The nation and the candidates explode in outrage. As attorney general, Allison launches a massive nationwide manhunt. But her motives are under fire, especially from her political opponent, who wants his adversary off the case of his missing granddaughter. Each side claims that the other is exploiting and manipulating the investigation for political advantage.
In truth, Allison's drive to bring Kristen home safe is far more personal than political. Years before, Allison's own adopted baby was stolen from her home, never to be found. Now it seems likely that her own child's fate is somehow tied to the current crisis. Allison must step off the political ladder if she is to help save the life of an innocent young girl and unravel the secrets of her own painful past. But that may not be enough. The culprit remains mysteriously out of reach linked to the highest office in the land through the lowest act of deceit.
Critical Praise
"True dirty politics and crime ... Hits a nerve ... as timely as today's headlines."
- San Francisco Chronicle
"Breathless"
- Philadelphia Inquirer
"Deftly plotted political fun."
- Library Journal
"Entertaining. ... Grippando has produced another exciting and cleverly plotted novel."
- Denver Post
"His best so far . . . Grippando keeps you guessing."
- Miami Herald
