Jake Fortina can't believe the news. Children-over 20,000 since February 2022-are disappearing as Russia invades Ukraine. Ukrainian Air Force Colonel Hennadiy Kovalenko and his wife, Mila, suffer heart-rending losses. Private Margarita Romanova, a medic in the Russian Army, faces a terrible dilemma, one that also holds the possibility of love and redemption. And in the background, Sergiy and Gleb, two young Ukrainian boys deported to Russia, must endure devastating and hellish circumstances. An unlikely confluence of Ukrainian, American, Italian, and Russian citizens unites to mount a rescue. The stakes have never been higher."Steinke captures with chilling accuracy the harsh reality faced by families devastated by Russia's brutal invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The novel's portrayal of children orphaned, abducted, or killed is stark and unflinching-but also necessary. What sets this novel apart is not just its raw truth, but its humanity." - Lauren Anderson, Former Senior FBI Executive and Global Women's Advocate"Rick Steinke delivers a gripping and gut-wrenching story rooted in today's brutal realities. This tale of courage, sacrifice, and redemption pulls on every heartstring; especially for those who have served, are parents, and who love their country. It's storytelling with purpose, and Fortina's fight has never felt more real or more urgent." - Command Sergeant Major Daniel Pinion, (US Army, Ret); Iraq War Veteran and Award Winning Author"Vital Mission, the fourth book in Ralph R. "Rick" Steinke's Major Jake Fortina series, is a military thriller with exceptional heart. It goes beyond combat tactics to explore the traumatizing impact of war on those who wage it. Whether in a darkened gym where children whisper into their covers or along a frostbitten tree line where Ukrainian soldiers lie in wait, the language Steinke uses is visceral and immersive. 5/5 stars; highly recommended!" - Best Book Chanticleer Book Reviews