Since the publication of The Hunt for Red October, Tom Clancy has established an unrivalled position as the world's leading thriller writer, with a string of million-selling novels and three major Hollywood films to his name. He is also the author of SSN and the non-fiction books Submarine, Armoured Warfare, Fighter Wing and Marine, and the co-creator of the Op-Centre series.,

Steve Pieczenik served as principal hostage negotiator and international crisis manager while Deputy Assistant Secretary of State. His acclaimed thrillers include The Mind Palace, Blood Heat, Maximum Vigilance and Pax Pacifica.,