The Fourth Angel

Jack Elgin is a European editor for The Economist who is forced to confront personal loss when a terrorist hijacking destroys his family vacation. He is analytical, resourceful, and relentlessly determined to uncover the truth. Grief fuels a calculated pursuit of justice that tests his ethics and his marriage to Maria.

Maria is Jack’s wife, a protective partner whose life is cut short during the hijacking. Her death becomes a catalyst for Jack’s quest for accountability and justice. She represents the human cost of political violence and the emotional stakes of the investigation.

Joanne is the couple’s daughter, whose death during the hijacking underscores the innocence lost to extremist acts. She embodies the personal stakes of the story and motivates Jack to seek answers and accountability.

Julia is the youngest Elgin child who perishes in the plane fire, her cries becoming a haunting reminder of what’s at stake. Her loss hardens Jack’s resolve and personalizes the cost of failing to act.

Andrew is the surviving child Jack cradled during the hijacking, a reminder of the human stakes behind every decision. His presence anchors Jack’s mission and reinforces the urgency of bringing the perpetrators to account.

Henry Davidson is a London-based CIA contact who appears to aid Jack but is ultimately revealed to be the hijacking’s architect, orchestrating the conspiracy. He embodies the gray areas of power and loyalty in international intrigue.

Kate Stockton is an ex-intelligence operative working with Jack, offering strategic expertise and a wary pragmatism. She navigates dangerous boundaries and supports Jack’s pursuit with cool, calculated restraint.

Jules Bernard is a shadowy FBI liaison who tracks Jack and appears to assist, raising questions about allegiance and the limits of cooperation in high-stakes investigations.

Ivanic Loyvek is the hijacking’s camera-ready leader, a ruthless organizer who demands the ransom and evades immediate capture. He represents the threat of political extremism and controlled violence.

Karadan Maldic is Loyvek’s second-in-command, a capable enforcer who executes orders with cold efficiency. His presence elevates the danger and the pace of the pursuit.

Dusan Velikovic is a secondary figure in the hijacking plot, representing the broader network of influence surrounding the ransom. His role adds depth to the conspiracy.

Duguay is a contact within the security or intelligence networks who surfaces as an ally or obstacle to Jack’s quest, depending on the shifting loyalties of the conspiracy.