The New York Times–bestselling author “ratchets up the suspense with breathtaking results as only a skilled, inventive and talented writer can do” (Orlando Sentinel). A man in a Virginia prison awaits execution for three horrific murders he must have committed but swears he didn’t . . . An aging investigator in New York City has seen too much and lost too much—and is ready to leave the darkness behind . . . But a nightmare is coming home—because a brilliant, savage, patient monster has unfinished business in the big city . . . and a hunger that can be satisfied only by fear and the slow, agonizing death of Matthew Scudder and the woman he loves. “Block, who couldn’t write a dull scene even if he tried to, is in fine form here.” —Los Angeles Times “Block, as always, takes his readers on a wildly entertaining ride.” —The Buffalo News “A thrilling, satisfying concoction brewed by a master storyteller in top form.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review) “An unforgettable tale of violence, death and deceit.” —Lansing State Journal “A page-turning work of art.” —Toronto Sun