This is the first book in a British crime series which introduces DCI Claire Winters who is investigating the rather gruesome murder of a priest, which is only the first of a number of grisly deaths that are occurring. Claire is an interesting character who is dealing with some relationship issues.
It is clear from fairly early on who is behind the murders, but the reasons behind them are slowly revealed through flashbacks. It wasn't so much the police procedural part of the story, but the background and history of all the characters involved and the relationships between them that were holding my attention. There is a really unexpected (well, to me it was) twist towards the end, which was great. Overall, this was a nicely paced, well written and suspenseful book. I'm certainly looking forward to reading The Principle of Evil, the next book in the series.
Thank you to the author and the publisher for providing me with a complimentary copy via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review. ( )

If ever there was a book in need of an editor and a proof-reader. ( )