The seventh novel in the best-selling Inspector Lynley mystery series

When the body of England's leading batsman, Kenneth Fleming, is discovered in the burnt-out shell of a country cottage, it looks like a clear-cut case of arson. Further investigation reveals an almost embarrassing multitude of suspects for murder: from Fleming's lover to his son, nearly everyone in contact with Fleming seems to have a motive - and an opportunity.

Inspector Lynley and his partner, Barbara Havers, are called in from Scotland Yard to help the local police force. They find a torment of twisted familial relationships and broken dreams - and as he brings the murderer to justice, Lynley must bear the weight of his own conscience.

"A very fine writer" - The Times

"An adult and meaty crime story" - Daily Mail

"Ms George is the connoisseur's crime writer" - Sunday Express

"Ingenious" - Sunday Times