The sixth instalment of the brilliant William Dougal crime series, from the bestselling author of The American Boy and The Ashes of London.

William Dougal's life seems to be running smoothly. Now working with his old rival, Hanbury, his reputation is gaining him cases from every corner. But with every climb, there has to come a fall . . .

When Dougal agrees to investigate the disappearance and suspected murder of publisher Oswald Finwood, he is faced with an array of suspects, all with the means and motive - from Finwood's estranged wife to an elusive author who had an appointment with Finwood on the day he disappeared.

As Dougal probes deeper, he finds himself tangled in a complex web of greed, deceit and deadly family revenge . . .