Those who play with fire are going to get burned...

Seven years ago Martin Chadwick set fire to a Manchester pub, not knowing a teenager was sleeping inside. Chadwick's release from prison is imminent, with journalists gearing up for a good old-fashioned media lynching.

With the victim's father telling the papers he is out for revenge, DS Jessica Daniel is left to keep an eye on Chadwick and his fiery eighteen-year-old son.

If that's not enough to keep her occupied, a private investigator is doing a fine job sticking his oar in, it looks like there's a schoolgirl suicide ring in operation, her car is working a little too well, and the endless rain continues to pound her northern home.

Jessica's personal and professional life is in the balance - giving her barely enough time to focus on the person in her midst seemingly intent on burning everything to the ground.

PRAISE FOR KERRY WILKINSON

"A crime-writing colossus" The Sun

"A strong voice..." Publisher's Weekly

"Plotting, high drama and characterization are becoming the hallmarks of his thrillers" Lancashire Evening Post