The eighth book in the acclaimed William Dougal crime series, from Richard & Judy bestselling author and CWA Dagger winner Andrew Taylor.

The eighth in the acclaimed William Dougal crime series, from the bestselling author of The American Boy and The Ashes of London.

William Dougal is a respectable private detective, a hardworking citizen and a responsible father - and now he's also a killer.

After a violent squabble takes a dangerous turn, Dougal decides to shun the police and instead take things into his own hands. He accepts the assistance of his old rival and current employer, Hanbury, to dispose of the corpse.

But Dougal quickly finds that help doesn't come cheap. In fact, it's often more trouble - and danger - than it's worth . . .

"Beautifully measured . . . Taylor's understated thriller generates a dark, hypnotic pull" - Time Out

"This author knows precisely how to wield suspense" - Independent on Sunday

"Taylor makes the tasteless a very tasty dish indeed." - The Sunday Times

"Shameless but engaging" - Observer

"Funny, suspenseful, engagingly amoral. Splendid example of the devil not only having the best tunes, but several top soloists to play them." - Literary Review

"Well modulated, enjoyable criminous entertainment" - Guardian