Ann Banks, the first woman elected president of the United States, and a member of the independent party, harbors a dark secret. She finds herself being blackmailed by a member of Russian organized crime, who have discovered this secret, putting both the safety of her lover, and her presidency, in jeopardy, just days before she is sworn in as president. Connecticut State Police detective, Sandi DeCarlo, is tasked with investigating a death at the governor's mansion, just days before the inauguration. Joining forces with the members of the U.S. intelligence community, DeCarlo finds herself caught in a deadly game of political intrigue, not knowing who is friend or enemy, as she races against time to keep the new president's secret - a secret, and herself, from becoming collateral damage. The story unravels at a fast pace and is set against a backdrop that includes spirited dialogue surrounding both sides of the many political and social issues making headlines today.