In a picturesque southern California beach community, a brutal serial killer is on the loose. His only victims are beautiful young women. His only adversaries are two cops haunted by problems of their own: the tough Tim Hess who is batting a life threatening illness, and the brash Merci Rayborn who has a rep for causing trouble. Now this unlikely team must put aside their personal issues to stop a ruthless madman before he strikes again. From The triggerman's dance to the Los Angeles times bestseller, Where serpents lie, T. Jefferson Parker has mesmerized readers and critics alike. Now the "ace suspense writer" (Chicago tribune) returns with an intricately plotted, stunningly suspenseful novel sure to please both old and new fans.