Forensic psychologist and police detective Dr. Alex Cross travels to North Carolina when he learns that his niece, Naomi, has become the latest in a series of young women to go missing from the area. The situation seems to be the work of a methodical serial kidnapper and murderer who is known only by the moniker "Casanova." This enigmatic figure has been abducting women who possess specific qualities that he admires, and the case quickly intensifies as the disturbing nature of his "collection" becomes apparent. Operating on his sharp instincts and expertise, Cross joins forces with local law enforcement in a desperate attempt to track down and save his niece before she becomes another victim of a grim fate.

Amidst the investigation, Cross meets Dr. Kate McTiernan, a strong-willed and resourceful woman who manages to escape from the clutches of Casanova. McTiernan becomes both a key witness and an assistant in the hunt for the elusive abductor. As the only escapee, she provides insight into Casanova's twisted psychological game and his hidden lair. Together, they delve deeper into a labyrinthine plot of intrigue and deception, following a trail of cryptic clues and hints that Casanova tauntingly leaves behind. Their partnership becomes a cornerstone, uniting personal resolve with methodical detective work as they race against time to unmask the identity of the kidnapper and halt his terrifying spree.