EDGE OF HONOR brings Scot Harvath back home and into the heart of Washington, D.C., where iconic landmarks and hidden corners pulse with intrigue. The Nation’s Capital sets the stage for action, so let’s explore some of the city’s most intriguing locations:
In EDGE OF HONOR, Sølvi orchestrates a team lunch at the historic Hay-Adams Hotel. More than just a luxury hotel, this Italian Renaissance masterpiece sits directly across Lafayette Square from the White House, offering unparalleled views and an air of old-world elegance. Step inside, and you’re surrounded by hand-carved plaster ceilings, intricate tapestries, and a sense of history that whispers from every corner.
For those in the know, the Hay-Adams is more than just a place to stay; it’s a discreet hub where policy is shaped, alliances are forged, and secrets are sometimes spilled over bourbon. Its famous “Off the Record” bar, a dimly lit sanctuary away from the prying eyes of the press, has been a favorite haunt for Washington insiders for generations and a backdrop in Brad’s previous novels.
No journey into the world of Scot Harvath is complete without a deep dive into espionage, and this museum delivers in spades. Located in L’Enfant Plaza, this sprawling 32,000-square-foot museum is a must-visit for any thriller aficionado. Inside, you’ll find a trove of relics that blur the line between real-life intrigue and the stuff of fiction. Imagine standing inches from a KGB poison gun, studying the bloodstained ice axe that sealed Leon Trotsky’s fate in 1940 (featured in SHADOW OF DOUBT), or trying your hand at interactive spy missions that test your mettle as a potential operative!
For Scot Harvath, home is Bishop’s Gate, so close to George Washington’s Mount Vernon that he jokingly refers to the nation’s first family as his neighbors. This isn’t just any estate; it’s a meticulously restored 500-acre slice of history along the Potomac River, where the mansion stands as a testament to American beginnings.
Visitors can explore the grand mansion, stroll through lush gardens, and examine artifacts that belonged to Washington himself, including his sword. It’s a powerful reminder of the foundational principles that guide Harvath’s unwavering patriotism, offering a quiet counterpoint to the chaotic world he operates within.
The opening attack in EDGE OF HONOR detonates during a protest near the U.S. Naval Observatory, a place of profound scientific and national importance. Beyond its role as home to the nation’s Master Clock and the historic “Great Equatorial” telescope, this fortified 72-acre campus houses the Vice President’s official residence.
The 9,000-square-foot, 33-room Queen Anne-style mansion, built in 1893, serves not only as a secure family home but also as a venue for crucial diplomatic entertaining. The Observatory itself is one of the oldest scientific agencies in the U.S., founded in 1830, and remains the primary source of time for the Department of Defense. It’s a place where precision governs the cosmos and the security of the free world.
The dramatic climax of EDGE OF HONOR‘s opening scenes unfolds at the three-story, neo-Renaissance mansion serving as the Norwegian Ambassador’s Residence. Situated on Embassy Row, it’s a hub for diplomatic events, cultural exchange, and high-profile visits.
Its history is as rich as its architecture; during World War II, Crown Princess Märtha and her children found refuge here while in exile. The residence’s location directly across from the Vice President’s residence at the U.S. Naval Observatory underscores Norway’s significant diplomatic standing on the global stage. In the world of EDGE OF HONOR, however, this symbol of international cooperation becomes a flashpoint for intense, unexpected conflict.
When President Mitchell extends the ultimate courtesy to Ambassador Hansen and Prime Minister Stang in EDGE OF HONOR, he offers them rooms at Blair House. Often referred to as the U.S. state guesthouse, it sits at 1651 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, just a stone’s throw from the White House. This impressive 70,000-square-foot complex, comprising four historic 19th-century townhouses, boasts 14 guest bedrooms and an invaluable collection of American art.
Blair House is steeped in history. It has hosted foreign dignitaries like Queen Elizabeth II and Nelson Mandela, served as the temporary White House during President Truman’s term, and even endured an assassination attempt on his life in 1950. Whispers of secret tunnels only add to its mystique. Managed by the State Department, Blair Houes is a symbol of American hospitality and a silent witness to generations of global diplomacy.
The Admiral, a key figure supporting Harvath in EDGE OF HONOR, persuaded him to join the Mount Vernon Yacht Club. Located near Harvath’s home, this volunteer-based social institution, founded in 1956, offers a refreshing contrast to the high-pressure world of espionage. With its 119-slip marina, 25-meter pool, and a three-story clubhouse featuring a gym and bar, it fosters a strong sense of family-friendly community.
But its true charm lies in its exclusivity: members enjoy exclusive docking at Mount Vernon’s wharf, granting private access to the historic estate for VIP tours and special events. For Harvath, it’s a rare glimpse of normalcy and camaraderie amidst the constant threats that define his life.
When protecting Ambassador Rogers becomes paramount in EDGE OF HONOR, the team retreats to Kent Island. This 31.62-square-mile island in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay offers the perfect blend of serenity and strategic proximity. Founded in 1631, it holds the distinction of being Maryland’s first English settlement.
Today, Kent Island is a cherished getaway for Washingtonians seeking a quick escape. Its serene beaches, like those at Terrapin Nature Park, renowned fresh seafood, scenic biking trails, and historic Stevensville offer a tranquil setting for relaxation and outdoor adventures. For Harvath and his team, it’s not just “island time”—it’s a tactical move, allowing them to regroup, strategize, and prepare for the next phase of their perilous mission.
EDGE OF HONOR brings Washington, D.C. to vivid life, grounding its explosive narrative in the authenticity of these remarkable places.