First in forensic psychologist series and based on the author's experience as a BBC report working with prostitutes. ( )

Psychologist Megan Rhys has been called in to assist the Police with the investigation into the deaths of two prostitutes. However, the Police seem to determined to take the investigation along their own way, despite Megan's belief that they are looking in the wrong places. Something is wrong with the information the Police are giving her, and she needs to find out why. Meantime, a friend of Megan's is receiving anonymous and frightening letters, and Megan starts to wonder if this is connected to the murdered prostitutes. Her investigations lead her into dark places, physically and psychologically, and she could be heading into danger...

I'm in two minds about this book. It's the first in a series featuring Megan Rhys, and I certainly think she was a great character, especially for a series of novels, when she can be more fully fleshed out as the books progress.

The story moved on at a ready pace, but occasionally seemed in danger of becoming over complicated. Nonetheless, it was an enjoyable read, with plenty of clues and red herrings thrown in during the narrative. I liked the fact that I did not guess who the killer was until it was revealed at the end, and kept changing my mind about who it would turn out to be.

However, the subject of the story seemed distasteful at times; I'm not a prude, but I did feel that the book was something that I couldn't really enjoy. In a way this is perhaps a compliment - the book was supposed to lead the reader to some unpleasant scenarios, and it certainly did so.

I did feel that the plot was occasionally a bit too 'busy', with too many things happening, and not all of them necessary. However, overall the central character was enough to keep me reading, and I would consider reading more book in this series. ( )