The gripping and exciting first book in a brand new crime thriller series from the No.1 bestselling author.

'Quite simply, Karin Slaughter is the best of us' Dervla McTiernan

Welcome to North Falls.

A small town where everyone knows everyone. But nobody knows the truth.

Emmy Clifton has lived here all her life. She thinks she knows her neighbours. She's wrong.

She thinks it's just another hot summer night: a night like any other. She's wrong.

When her best friend's daughter asks for help, she thinks it's just some teenage drama. She thinks it can wait. She's never been more wrong in her life.

As the town ignites in the wake of the girl's disappearance, Emmy throws herself into the search. But then she realises: You never really know a town until you know its secrets.

Is Emmy ready for the truth?

'With this book, Karin Slaughter stamps her authority all over the genre. It's impeccably crafted, achingly tense, and so deeply felt. The plot is intricate and the characters are both larger than life and utterly real. I read it in a day and a half and it will stay with me for years' Dervla McTiernan

'A thriller of breadth and depth—a powerful and gripping read' Shari Lapena

'I was utterly enthralled by the chilling twists and turns, but also by Slaughter's deep understanding of love, friendship and loyalty. A huge novel with an even bigger heart—a tremendous achievement.' Jane Casey

'Explosive and fabulous—Slaughter never fails to deliver' Cara Hunter