Abraham's Bones by Joe Prentis

"A routine negotiation session turns into an intricate web of murder, terror and doubt!"

As political conditions in the Middle East continue to deteriorate, archaeologists John Christopher and Julia Siedman seem to be the perfect candidates for high-level positions within the State Department in Washington, D.C. They have spent many years in Israel, speak the languages of the area, and are personally acquainted with many of the area’s leaders. During the next four years, they are actively involved in trying to preserve the fragile peace in the troubled region. When Julia suddenly breaks her engagement with Christopher as the result of a personal disagreement, he resigns his position with the State Department and returns to Israel and the work he loves so passionately. Now, a year later, the prospect of war is looming ominously, and government officials worry that everything they have accomplished in recent years will go careening hopelessly out of control.

While in Rome to attend an archaeological symposium, high ranking officials in the Vatican offer Christopher a position as Ambassador to the Middle East in the hope that he can bring the reluctant delegates back to the bargaining table. Politicians in Washington send Julia to assist him in this desperate bid for a lasting peace.

Before leaving Rome, representatives from three different groups with questionable motives, approach Christopher asking for his help and support. Dr. Rosen, a specialist in DNA research, heads the first group. He is convinced that radical elements in the Israeli army are intending to take control of the ancient temple complex in Jerusalem, now under the control of the Palestinian Authority. Andre Havran, who represents a multinational investment organization, wants to know why a terrorists group is monitoring Christopher’s every move. Keith Maitland, a desperate and unprincipled reporter, is convinced that a shadowy and secret organization controls the governments of the world by directing the decisions of elected officials.

Arriving back in Israel, Christopher discovers that what he thought would be just another routine negotiation session, is quickly deteriorating into chaos as various political groups fight for political supremacy— and if all of this is not trouble enough, Christopher has reasons to believe that Keith Maitland’s demented ramblings are frighteningly accurate.

Available at Amazon.