Number One bestseller Elizabeth George creates a serial killer for the first time, setting the globally popular Inspector Lynley his most shocking case yet.

When the Metropolitan Police fail to realise a serial killer is at work, London ignites over the fact that the killer's victims are young black and mixed race boys. Institutionalised racism is claimed by the community's activists and tabloids alike. Acting Superintendent Thomas Lynley is given the case, and his Scotland Yard task force is soon handling more killings and a looming tragedy.

Elizabeth George brings to the familiar subject of the serial killer a freshness and clarity of vision that provide illuminating insight into the psychological complexity of the tortured criminal mind. She does so within a richly textured, thrillingly suspenseful narrative that defies any reader to predict its outcome. Nor does she neglect our favourite characters, whose private lives provide an engrossing counterpoint to their professional duties.

"George is a master" - Chicago Tribune

"George explores her characters' dreams and fears with a penetrating grace that makes reading her books a joy" - Washington Post Book World

"Enough twists and shocks . . . to startle even the most jaded reader" - Wall Street Journal

"Complex, convincing and completely absorbing" - Woman's Day