Part of Inspector Napoleon Bonaparte, book 8
First published 1986
A deadly explosion rocks a remote Australian road, claiming the life of a high-ranking police officer. The blast leaves behind twisted metal and urgent questions that demand answers. Inspector Napoleon Bonaparte arrives to untangle the mystery of who planted the lethal device and why they targeted their victim. The mixed-race detective must navigate the harsh outback terrain while pursuing a killer who strikes without warning. Bonaparte's investigation leads him through isolated communities and across unforgiving landscapes where danger lurks in unexpected places. The bomber remains one step ahead, forcing the inspector to rely on his unique skills and deep understanding of both Aboriginal tracking methods and modern police work. As Bonaparte closes in on his quarry, he discovers the murder connects to larger forces at play in this remote corner of Australia.
Genres: adventure, mystery, crime, thriller, detective
Vibes: atmospheric, fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: amateur-sleuth, cat-and-mouse
Setting: Australia
Period: 20th-century
188 pages · Paperback · Touchstone