Late autumn in Edinburgh and late autumn for the career of Inspector John Rebus. While he struggles to wrap up some loose ends before retiring, a new murder case arises. An anti-establishment Russian poet is found dead after what appears to be a botched robbery on the street.
Coincidentally, a delegation of Russian businessmen visits the city, intending to close significant deals in Scotland. The politicians and bankers who control Edinburgh are eager to have the case resolved quickly and cleanly. However, the deeper Rebus and his colleague Siobhan Clarke dig, the more they are led to believe they are dealing with more than a random attack – especially when a second heinous murder follows.
Meanwhile, a brutal and premeditated attack on the local gangster and sworn enemy of Rebus casts suspicion on him. Has the inspector overreached himself in trying to wrap up his outstanding matters? Will he be able to complete his long and inglorious career that ends in just a few days?
Powerful and touching, this book not only marks the bittersweet conclusion of Inspector Rebus's journey in the force but also serves as a biting commentary on money, power, and human nature.
