'Elizabeth George takes a brave descent into the world of gangs and teenage murderers ... the novel shows how even the best of intentions can be defeated by poverty, bad breaks and bad guys.' -- Daily Express 'Why haven't I read Elizabeth George before? Maybe because someone told me she was a serious crime writer, and I listen to thrillers to escape, not to think. All this will change; she's brilliant' -- Sue Arnold, Guardian 'George's best since her 1998 debut. Read it and weep.' -- Kirkus Reviews 'Absolutely remarkable and a great achievement' -- Boyd Hilton on BBC Radio FiveLive 'A very powerful novel.' -- Kate Mosse 'It shifts the way you look at things - I was completely drawn into this world I knew nothing about and I'm full of admiration' -- Sarah Harrison

Elizabeth George is the author of highly acclaimed novels of psychological suspense. She won the Anthony and Agatha Best First Novel awards in America and received the Grand Prix de Litterature Policiere in France. In 1990 she was awarded the prestigious German prize for international mystery fiction, the MIMI. Her novels have now been adapted for television by the BBC. An Edgar and Macavity Nominee as well as a New York Times and international bestselling author, Elizabeth George lives on Whidbey Island in the state of Washington.