Ruth and Simon Pierce's rare romantic break is shattered by
devastating news: their daughter, Heather, on holiday in Cornwall with
a friend’s family, has disappeared… The loss is more than they – or
their marriage - can bear. But time does heal and slowly Ruth builds a
new life for herself. A new husband, Andrew - even a second daughter,
Beatrice.
The chances that history could repeat itself are next-to-impossible –
that is until, years later, a desperate phone call launches DI Will
Grayson and his partner, DS Helen Walker, into an investigation which
will test their professional and emotional resources to the very limit.
Yet as Grayson becomes increasingly obsessed with a recently released
child-abuser and Helen is drawn deeper into a destructive love affair
with a married colleague, there is a real danger that their most
demanding investigation yet will slip fatefully through their hands…
About The Author
John Harvey is the author of the richly praised Charlie Resnick
novels, the first of which, Lonely Hearts, was named by The Times as
one of the '100 Best Crime Novels of the Century.' His first novel
featuring retired Detective Inspector Frank Elder, Flesh and Blood, won
the CWA Silver Dagger in 2004, and also won the Barry award for the
Best British Crime Novel published in the US in 2004. John is also a
poet, dramatist and occasional broadcaster.
Industry Reviews
"This is one of John Harvey's best novels, which means it's one of the best, full stop." Crime Time "Harvey's fleshed-out characters and sure grasp of the complex emotional underpinnings of society generally, and individuals in particular, make him a favourite among crime writers and readers alike" Daily Mail "All Harvey's usual virtues - strong minor characters, likeable, three-dimensional cops, adroit handling of a complex plot and large cast - are in evidence" Sunday Times "A taut tale exploring the themes of child abduction, abuse and bereavement... [the] understated narrative is elegant and effortlessly gripping" Press Association (syndicated article) "The architecture of Harvey's storytelling begs to be admired, with its multiple narratives, shifting time lines and elaborate plot details. But it's his handling of difficult characters and provocative themes that gives the book weight. All the adults in this story love children, some selflessly and others in ways that make your skin crawl, and they all react differently when the children they love are taken away from them. Harvey's touch is so subtle, his style so seductive, the he distracts us from the fact that Ruth isn't the only person whose choices are determined, or tragically derailed, by love for a child - even if it's someone else's child" New York Times
