When British correspondent for Russia Lord Tim Quainton falls in love with Marya Razcinski whilst on leave in London, little does he know what a web of intrigue he is entering. Quainton's suspicions are first awakened when he discovers a secret about Marya's father and his suspicious past. But Quainton must immediately push his fears out of his mind and embark upon a lengthy assignment into the heart of the Ukraine.

Soon, though, Quainton finds himself suddenly hotly pursued through perilous, icy conditions by a sinister enemy who won't rest until he is dead. What does this terrifying turn of events have to do with Quainton's furtive enquiries into Raczinski's past? And will he make it back to London in time to find out?

‘Exciting to the very end.’ Times Literary Supplement

‘One can always rely on him for either an original idea or a fresh treatment of an old one.’ Guardian

‘Of all the English writers of detection one of the most original, certainly the most versatile in subject, is Andrew Garve.’ Daily Telegraph