Desperate Measures

"Damaged Ash and chipper Hazel are a compelling-enough duo to keep readers turning pages" as Ash goes to extreme lengths to bring home his kidnapped family (Publishers Weekly).

When Gabriel Ash's wife and kids were kidnapped four years ago by Somali pirates, his life spiraled out of control. He left his job working for the British government and moved to a small town where he descended into near madness. But with the help of his dog, Patience, and his friendship with young police officer Hazel Best, his focus returned. So when he discovers that his wife is still alive, Ash is once again filled with hope and fear. Hope that he has another chance to find her and their two young sons; fear that, in trying, he may bring about their deaths.


Hazel is deeply worried for Ash. But even she is unprepared for what Ash seems willing to do to secure the safety of his wife and children. In fact, nothing is as it seems and loyalty, friendship, and family bonds will be called into question. When Ash learns who was behind the events that wrecked his life and his sanity, even the resourceful Hazel might not be able to keep him from getting hurt. How much is Ash willing to sacrifice in order to bring his family home and bring justice to those responsible?

Desperate Measures is an engrossing novel from "one of the undersung treasures of the mystery genre" (The Chicago Tribune).


"Bannister stays true to her reputation for excellent police procedurals. Readers will be unable to put down this latest tale of suspense." —Library Journal