by Ace Atkins
Part of Spenser, book 26
First published 1999
Private investigator Spenser takes on what seems like routine trouble at a respected Boston university. The case starts simple but quickly expands into something far more dangerous. Politics mix with sex and race as Spenser uncovers layer after layer of deception. His partner Hawk joins the investigation as they discover the university problems connect to a much larger racial conspiracy. While Spenser digs deeper into the case, he faces threats from multiple directions. Stalkers target him personally, adding danger to his daily life. His romantic relationship also hits turbulent waters, forcing him to juggle professional and personal crises. The university case grows more complex as powerful interests try to keep their secrets buried. Spenser must navigate the treacherous waters of institutional politics while staying one step ahead of those who want him to stop digging. The conspiracy reaches further than he initially imagined, threatening not just the university but the broader community.
Genres: suspense, mystery, crime, detective
Vibes: suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Boston, University
Period: Contemporary
309 pages · Hardcover · G. P. Putnam's Sons
Content warnings: racism