Black Cross summary

The Beginning of a Dangerous Mission

In Black Cross by Greg Iles, the story begins with a young American named Paul Schumann, who was imprisoned for manslaughter. However, instead of serving his full sentence, he is offered a deal by the US government. He can either stay in prison for the rest of his life, or he can accept a mission to assassinate a German physicist working on a top-secret project for the Nazis. Schumann, an expert assassin, accepts the mission and is sent to Nazi Germany.

Once in Germany, Schumann discovers the true nature of his mission. The physicist he is supposed to kill is not working on a regular project. Instead, he is developing a nerve gas that could potentially change the outcome of the war in favor of the Nazis. Schumann realizes that his mission is much more dangerous and crucial than he initially thought.

A Deadly Discovery and a Change of Heart

While in Germany, Schumann befriends a Jewish woman named Hannah, who opens his eyes to the horrors of the Holocaust. He learns about the concentration camps and the atrocities committed by the Nazis. This newfound knowledge makes him question his mission. He starts to see that his mission is not just about killing a scientist, but about preventing the Nazis from using a weapon that could kill millions.

As Schumann struggles with his conscience, he discovers that the nerve gas project is more advanced than he initially thought. The Nazis are planning to test the gas on a group of Jewish prisoners. Schumann knows that he has to act fast to prevent the gas from being used. He decides to abandon his original mission and instead, he plans to destroy the entire project.

Escaping the Enemy and the Unthinkable

With the help of Hannah, Schumann infiltrates the heavily guarded facility where the nerve gas is being developed. They face numerous obstacles and dangers, including a sadistic SS officer who is determined to stop them at any cost. Schumann's skills as an assassin are put to the test as he fights to survive and complete his new mission.

As they progress through the facility, Schumann and Hannah are horrified by the inhumane conditions and the brutal treatment of the prisoners. They are forced to confront the stark reality of the Holocaust. Despite the overwhelming odds, they manage to destroy the nerve gas and the entire facility. However, their victory comes at a great cost.

The Aftermath and a New Beginning

After a harrowing escape, Schumann and Hannah find themselves on the run from the Nazis. They face numerous near-death encounters, but their determination and resourcefulness help them survive. In the end, they manage to escape to the Allied side. However, their journey has taken a heavy toll on both of them.

As Black Cross concludes, Schumann and Hannah are faced with the challenge of starting a new life. They are haunted by their experiences and the horrors they witnessed. Despite their personal struggles, they are determined to move forward. The novel ends with a message of hope and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.