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 prejudice 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.