Black Market

The Covert Ledger

When Special Agent Nikki Heat intercepts a classified dossier pointing to a clandestine trading network, she never suspects the depth of deception lurking behind “Black Market.” In this thrilling novel by James Patterson, the underbelly of global commerce reveals itself through secret auctions of stolen artifacts, high-stakes arms deals, and digital heists orchestrated by unseen masters of manipulation. Heat must navigate a labyrinth of encrypted transactions, offshore shell corporations, and back-channel communications to trace the money—and the men—pulling the strings.

Chasing the Puppeteers

Partnered with forensic accountant James “Jim” Becker, Nikki delves into a world where fortunes are built on shadow economies and loyalty is bought with silence. From the marble-floored corridors of international banks in Geneva to the neon-lit docks of Singapore’s bustling port, their pursuit spans continents. Every clue leads to another dead end or a ruthless adversary willing to eliminate anyone in their path. As Nikki and Jim close in, the conspirators tighten their grip—deploying hired guns, corrupt officials, and cyber-saboteurs who strike without warning.

Redemption Under Siege

With time running out, Nikki confronts the moral ambiguity at the heart of justice: Can the law ever truly prevail against those who operate beyond it? Betrayal cuts close when an ally’s motives are called into question, and Nikki must decide where her trust really lies. The suspense builds to a breathtaking climax at an abandoned industrial complex, where every bullet, every whispered confession, and every forged passport converges in a pulse-pounding showdown.

Echoes of Consequence

“Black Market” is more than a chase—it’s a mirror held up to the modern world’s most insidious networks. Patterson’s signature blend of rapid-fire dialogue, meticulously plotted intrigue, and deeply human stakes creates a roller-coaster ride that asks: How far will we go to expose the truth, and at what cost?

. James Patterson – internationally bestselling author born in 1947, celebrated for his heart-pounding thrillers, unforgettable characters, and masterful storytelling that has captivated millions of readers worldwide.