Part of Kay Scarpetta, book 12
First published 2004
Kay Scarpetta has fled Richmond after her career as Virginia's Chief Medical Examiner collapsed in scandal. The governor threatened to fire her. The media hounded her over alleged involvement in a deputy police chief's murder. Now she works as a private forensic consultant in Florida, investigating a disturbing Louisiana case. A woman died in a cheap hotel, dressed to leave, clutching her keys. The victim suffered from blackouts and violent episodes that complicate the investigation. Then Scarpetta receives chilling news. Jean-Baptiste Chandonne, the murderous Wolfman who once stalked her, wants a meeting from his death row cell. He claims he will share secrets that authorities need to close a global investigation. Scarpetta wonders what game this psychopath plays. She suspects his request connects to the Louisiana death. With niece Lucy and Detective Pete Marino, Scarpetta must untangle an international conspiracy that will shake her faith in everyone she trusts.
Genres: suspense, mystery, crime, thriller
Vibes: dark, emotional, suspenseful
Tropes: amateur-sleuth, cat-and-mouse
Setting: Richmond, Florida, Louisiana
Period: Contemporary
467 pages · Paperback · Berkley
Content warnings: murder, violence