A man falls to his death from a cliff face in western Scotland. From a distance, another man watches. He approaches, the body, tucks a book into the dead man's pocket, and leaves. When the Scottish police show Detective Chief Inspector Domenic Jejeune the book, he recognizes it as a call for help. But he also knows that answering that call could destroy the life he and his girlfriend, Lindy, have built for themselves in the village of Saltmarsh, on the north Norfolk coast. It could even end his policing career. Or worse. Back in Saltmarsh, the brutal murder of a researcher involved in a local climate change project has everyone looking at the man's controversial studies as a motive. But Sergeant Danny Maik, temporarily heading the investigation in Jejeune's absence, believes a huge cash incentive being offered for the research many play a crucial role. With their beleaguered chief superintendent blocking their attempts to interview the project's uber-wealthy owners, and all roads seeming to lead back to a falconry located on the research facility's property, Jejeune and Maik must work together to find their answers. But with Jejeune's personal secrets threatening to tear the North Norfolk Constabulary apart, will the men's partnership survive when the danger from above begins to cast its dark shadow?
“the final solution was very satisfying…A neatly constructed and well-told police procedural. If you like north Norfolk you'll feel as though you're there. If you like birds you'll feel as though you're in heaven
– Bookbag (U.K.)
a fun, smart and satisfying read just like its predecessors.”
- 49th Shelf (Canada)
It's always nice to come across a new angle in crime fiction…this is an entertaining visit to the Norfolk coast and a good introduction to the world of birders. - Crime Review (U.K.)