Quick kill, in, out. Clean shot and all based on meticulous planning. That is how Will Robie, an experienced and well trained American government assassin, liked to do his work. He is at the top of his game but at forty, he knows it is time to start making plans for a new future.

But before that, another job. This one is different. It is close to his home in Washington D.C. and he doesn't have the reason for the assassination. The dossier is surprisingly light. As he lines up the sleeping woman in his cross-hairs, Robie feels something is off. Why a government employee with two little kids? Robie has always followed his handler's directions without question before, why the concern now? Suddenly, a sniper's bullet crashes through the window. What the hell is happening?

Meanwhile, fourteen year old Julie Getty sneaks off from her foster care home to see her family. Slipping into her old home, she is shocked to hear a gunshot and then to see her parents being killed before her eyes. Realizing, she could be a target as well, Julie runs away and gets on a bus for New York. Taking a milk run bus to New York was all part of Robie's back-up plan and he watches and observes every passenger on the bus. Seeing a man heading for a young girl with vicious intent, Robie has to act and protect the girl. Now, they are both on the run. But who can they trust?

Best-selling author David Baldacci scores another hit with his latest, THE INNOCENT. True to Baldacci's style and reputation, he pulls you right into the action with scenes that are set with clarity and depth and holds you captive until his shocking conclusion.

What a ride! His character development is very strong and Robie and Julie make a wonderful and unlikely team. While Robie is a likable guy, he is a loner and used to doing his own thing and is unsure about how much he can trust Julie or Special Agent Nicole Vance to help. Julie is a terrific character. She is smart, talented, with a knowing beyond her years from her life situation; yet, still has a touch of childhood naivety. THE INNOCENT is a guaranteed page turner! Enjoy!