First published 2014
Arlette returns to her Strasbourg office after a peaceful vacation to discover her caseload has exploded in her absence. The widow of the famous inspector Van der Valk has built her own reputation as a private investigator, though her work brings constant threats. Gunshots, kidnappings, and blackmail attempts have become routine hazards of the job. Her connection to the local police commissioner provides certain advantages, including help securing a gun license, but it also creates complications. When a particularly ugly case lands on her desk, Arlette faces a crucial decision. The commissioner has made one rule absolutely clear: she must never interfere with official police investigations. Now she must choose between following his orders and pursuing the truth her client needs. As the cases pile up around her, Arlette prepares to dive back into the dangerous world of private detection, where her survival skills will be tested once again.
Genres: mystery, crime, thriller, detective
Vibes: atmospheric, fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Strasbourg, Office
Period: Vacation, Caseload
Kindle Edition · Bloomsbury Reader
Content warnings: kidnapping, violence