Introduction

The

potent and murky impulses of desire, greed, obsession and fear combine with deadly results in this compelling psychological thriller from multi-million copy and SUNDAY TIMES bestselling author Ruth Rendell. Perfect for readers of PD James, Ann Cleeves and Donna Leon.

Reviews

''A fine novel of suspense'' -- Financial Times

''Rendell''s psychological insights are so absorbing, it''s easy to forget what a superb plotter she is'' -- The Times

''Ruth Rendell''s books are not only whodunits but whydunits, uncovering the motive roots of murder'' -- Mail on Sunday

''Pretty much perfect'' -- ***** Reader review

''Had me glued from start to finish'' -- ***** Reader review

''Loved this book, a real page turner with a really good end!'' -- ***** Reader review

''A superb work which, as always, keeps you gripped from beginning to end!!'' -- ***** Reader review

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Synopsis

Alan Groombridge is trapped. Husband to a woman he doesn''t like, father to two children he never wanted, and manager of a tiny branch of the Anglian-Victoria bank, he is doomed to a life of domestic boredom and tedious routine.

All that keeps him afloat is his one fantasy: stealing enough of the bank''s money to allow him just one year of freedom - one year in which to live a different sort of life.

But one day the bank is robbed, the manager and cashier disappear and what was once a place of dull and dreary repetition becomes the scene of a brutal, chilling nightmare that might never end...