Modesto, California. April, 1952. Jim Andrews, ace fighter-pilot in World War II and Korea, visiting his friend's farm as part of his civilian job, is shocked when the sheriff tells him someone he knows has been murdered. Trouble is, he can't admit to anyone he knew the dead man without exposing his involvement. As he begins unraveling the mystery the next day, two high-heeled lightning-bolts walk into his office, complicating his life that much more. As the Cold War heats up, he learns his problems have only just begun, are far more entangled than he suspects, and that he has not left war behind him. Old attachments hinder his progress as he searches for the keys to this enigma, and others even more obscure. Death awaits a single misstep... This novel features characters from a previous work, Parallel Lives. While knowledge of these characters' stories would enhance the reader's enjoyment of this book, it isn't necessary. This is the first book in the series. Reviewer comments from previous works: "Characters are well-developed, to include their loved ones..." "Crane will make your blood boil..." "[Vengeance] is worth your time. I look forward to discovering more of Mike Crane's writing."