In the Shadows: True Stories of High-Stakes Negotiations to Free Americans Captured Abroad

In the Shadows: True Stories of High-Stakes Negotiations to Free Americans Captured Abroad is a non-fiction book by Mickey Bergman, co-authored with Ellis Henican, released on June 4, 2024. The book provides a detailed look into the secretive and high-stakes world of international hostage negotiations.

Overview

The book offers an insider's perspective on the complexities of securing the release of Americans wrongfully detained abroad. Mickey Bergman, a negotiator with the Richardson Center for Global Engagement, shares his experiences dealing with challenging international leaders and navigating intricate diplomatic landscapes.

Key themes

High-stakes negotiations

Bergman recounts his involvement in several high-profile cases, such as those of Brittney Griner, Danny Fenster, Otto Warmbier, Trevor Reed, and Paul Whelan. These stories highlight the multifaceted nature of hostage negotiations, where traditional diplomatic methods often fall short.

A significant portion of the book focuses on Bergman's work with his mentor, Bill Richardson, the late former governor of New Mexico and a renowned negotiator. Bergman shares insights into Richardson's methods and his significant influence on Bergman's career.

Emotional intelligence

The book explores the emotional challenges faced by negotiators and the families of hostages, highlighting the emotional intelligence and psychological resilience required to handle the stress and uncertainty inherent in these missions.

Authors

Mickey Bergman is the director of Global Reach, an organization specializing in negotiating the release of political prisoners and hostages worldwide. Bergman has over a decade of experience in complex and sensitive international negotiations.

Ellis Henican is an author, journalist, and television commentator. He has co-authored several non-fiction books.