First, there is the bullet -- fired from the rifle of one of the world's most elusive assassins.

Second, there is the body -- that of the vice president of the United States.

Finally, there is the secret, a secret poised to wreak chaos so potent as to bring the highest powers of government to their knees.

Welcome to the world of The Greater Good -- a high-velocity political thriller from a gifted first-time novelist who goes deep inside the corridors of Washington where stakes are high and secrets can be deadly.