From an Edgar award winner, French Inspector Castang investigates cases close to his personal life in a mystery rich with "penetrating character sketches" (Kirkus Reviews).

It seems there's no escape from crime for Police Commissaire Henri Castang. While in Munich with his wife, he becomes embroiled in a child custody case that suddenly turns sinister. Once back at home, Castang is faced with the mysterious disappearance of a friend's wife, along with what could be a romantic double suicide if it didn't look suspiciously like murder. It's all in a day's work for Inspector Castang in these three interconnected mysteries—crimes which challenge even the enigmatic, brilliant mind of France's renowned detective. . . .

Praise for Nicolas Freeling:

"In depth of characterization, command of language and breadth of thought, Mr. Freeling has few peers when it comes to the international policier." — The New York Times

"Nicolas Freeling . . . liberated the detective story from page-turning puzzler into a critique of society and an investigation of character." — The Daily Telegraph

"Freeling rewards with his oblique, subtly comic style." — Publishers Weekly

"Freeling writes like no one. . . . He is one of the most literate and idiosyncratic of crime writers." — Los Angeles Times