Part of Duncan Kincaid & Gemma James, book 4
First published 2005
Division Commander Alastair Gilbert sprawls dead in his kitchen, skull crushed by repeated blows. The powerful policeman ruled his Surrey village and Scotland Yard division through intimidation and cruelty. Now Superintendent Duncan Kincaid and Sergeant Gemma James must investigate his murder. They find no shortage of suspects. Gilbert's arrogance earned him enemies throughout the police force and beyond. Every witness reveals fresh betrayals and buried resentments. The investigation uncovers a web of broken trust and simmering hatred that extends far beyond Gilbert's immediate circle. Kincaid and James must navigate their own complicated relationship while pursuing justice for a man few will miss. The case forces them to confront uncomfortable truths about power, corruption, and the thin line between authority and abuse.
Genres: suspense, mystery, crime, detective
Vibes: dark, emotional, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, investigation, power-dynamics
Setting: Surrey, Scotland Yard
Period: 20th-century
310 pages · Mass Market Paperback · Avon
Content warnings: abuse, violence