In this superb and engaging mystery from award-winning author Deborah Crombie, a powerful policeman is found brutally murdered in his kitchen just outside of London and Scotland Yard detectives Duncan Kincaid and Gemma James are called in to solve the most troubling case either of them has ever encountered.

Few in suburban Surrey mourn the violent passing of Division Commander Alastair Gilbert, whose arrogance and cruelty were legendary in his village and in wider police circles—which only makes the job of Scotland Yard investigators Superintendent Duncan Kincaid and Sergeant Gemma James more difficult. And as every discovery reveals another instance of misplaced trust, festering secrets, and murderous rage, they must put aside their own personal feelings for the victim—and for each other—in the name of justice and the law.