The Ultimatum - (Guardian) by Karen Robards (Paperback)

About the Book

"Growing up, Bianca St. Ives knew she was different from all her friends. Instead of playing hopscotch or combing her dolls' hair, she covertly studied martial arts with sensei masters and dismantled explosives with special-ops retirees. Her father prepped her well to carry on the family business. Now she makes a living swindling con men out of money they stole. But her latest gig goes horribly wrong. Not only do two hundred million dollars and top secret government documents go missing, but her father is killed during the heist. The thing is, the US government doesn't believe he's really dead. They'll stop at nothing to capture Richard St. Ives, a high-value target and someone who has been on most-wanted lists all over the world for over two decades--and they mean to use Bianca as bait. With only a fellow criminal for backup and her life on the line, it's up to Bianca to uncover the terrifying truth behind what really happened...and set it right, before it's too late." --

Book Synopsis

Her past is shrouded in secrets--but it has made her who she is today

Growing up, Bianca St. Ives knew she was different from all her friends. Instead of playing hopscotch or combing her dolls' hair, she covertly studied martial arts with sensei masters and dismantled explosives with special-ops retirees. Her father prepped her well to carry on the family business.

ow she makes a living swindling con men out of money they stole. But her latest gig goes horribly wrong. Not only do two hundred million dollars and top secret government documents go missing, but her father is killed during the heist. The thing is, the US government doesn't believe he's really dead. They'll stop at nothing to capture Richard St. Ives, a high-value target and someone who has been on most-wanted lists all over the world for over two decades--and they mean to use Bianca as bait. With only a fellow criminal for backup and her life on the line, it's up to Bianca to uncover the terrifying truth behind what really happened...and set it right, before it's too late.

Review Quotes

Praise for the novels of New York Times bestselling author Karen Robards

"The latest from thriller-master Robards is an enthralling high-stakes caper novel... Readers won't want this adrenaline-rich story to end... Buy extra copies."--Booklist (starred review) on The Ultimatum

"Robards begins a new series with a fascinating main character, blazing action, a Jason Bourne-esque central mystery, and an intriguing cliffhanger ending... Fresh, sexy, and eminently readable."-Kirkus on The Ultimatum

"Robards's visually evocative narrative allows the reader to 'see' Bianca during her escapades... Readers who appreciate the thrillers of Iris Johansen, Tess Gerritsen, and Lisa Gardner will enjoy getting to know Bianca St. Ives."-Library Journal on The Ultimatum

"Exhilarating... Edgy and engaging."-USA TODAY

"[Robards writes] a feast of menace and mystery." -Woman's Day

"One terrific storyteller."-Chicago Tribune

"Robards always delivers a thrilling reading experience."-Midwest Book Review

"Robards has a knack for writing taut thrillers that are genuinely enjoyable."-Bookworm Room

"Spellbinding...explosive."-Publishers Weekly