Chapters 1-3 (pages 1-23) Summary

The book begins with the novel's protagonist, Myron Bolitar, lounging on a beach in the Caribbean next to a beautiful CNN newscaster, Terese Collins. Myron is not sure how long the two of them have been on the island, but suspects it has been close to three weeks. This is also the length of time that Myron has known Terese. Neither of them has told their friends or family where they have gone. They are both trying to escape from something but refuse to discuss it with one another. For the most part, they spend their days in solitude and nights together.

As they stare out into the sunlight, a yacht pulls toward them and drops down anchor. At first, Terese is alarmed and asks Myron if he has told anyone where they are, Myron assures her...