Global headlines come to life as intrigue and international politics collide in this electrifying debut thriller. After a devastating experience in Darfur strips Alex Baines, former rising star of the State Department, of his security clearances, he is faced with two choices: spend the rest of his career in visa-stamping limbo or move to the private sector. When his old mentor offers him an incredible opportunity to start over in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Alex is glad to take it. Yet the job isn’t quite what he imagined, for a shady U.S.-based mining company is involved everywhere he turns. As political violence escalates, Alex struggles to balance the best interests of his country and colleagues with the fate of the Congo and its people. His loyalties are put to the test as he races to determine the right course of action. 'A thriller of great integrity and intelligence…I highly recommend it.' Douglas Preston, #1 New York Times bestselling author ‘There's the mission the public knows, and the mission we'll never see. Matthew Palmer knows both, which is what makes The American Mission crackle with complexity and authenticity. What a debut.’ Brad Meltzer, #1 New York Times bestselling author