It begins with a glimpse or a passing thought. It ends with an obsession.

One day a renowned author discovers that his wife, a war correspondent, has disappeared leaving no trace. Though time brings more success and new love, he remains mystified - and increasingly fascinated - by her absence. Was she kidnapped, blackmailed, or simply bored with their marriage? The unrest she causes is as strong as the attraction she exerts.

His search for her - and for the truth of his own life - takes him from South American to Spain, France, Croatia and, eventually, the bleakly beautiful landscape of Central Asia. More than that, it leads him to a new understanding of the nature of love, the power of destiny and what it really means to follow your heart.

With The Zahir, Paulo Coelho, the author of The Alchemist, demonstrates not just his powerful and captivating storytelling, but also his extraordinary insight into what is to be a human being in a world full of possibility.