"The Italian region of Alto-Adige is the northernmost part of the county, bordering Switzerland and Austria. The majestic Dolomites mountain range encompasses the area creating stark, beautiful landscapes. But this place of beauty also hides an evil side. For within the shadows of the towering Dolomites' peaks, one man has forged a reign of terror. Since World War II, when he was only a boy, Herr Wegener has been entrenched in a black market crime organization. He is feared by all and controls everyone: politicians, police, and his wife Marlene. But Marlene has finally had enough. Unable to take her husband's abuse and cruelty anymore, Marlene has reached her breaking point and goes on the run--but not before stealing millions of lire worth of sapphires from Wegener's safe as well as his car. Marlene was a young woman when Wegener fell into her life by chance while she was working at a hotel to earn money for her family who still lives in a rural mountain town. He represented protection and sanctuary--until she found out, too late, how he made his money. But no one escapes Wegener, and he will make sure Marlene pays for her betrayal. Wegener sends a notorious assassin to kill his wife--an assassin known solely as The Trusted Man, who always gets the job done. Once he is given an assignment, he sees it through to the end, no matter how difficult. Normally, this wouldn't be a problem for Wegener. But then one of his men discovers the one fact that would make him want Marlene alive. She's pregnant with his son ..."--Back cover.