Hunkeler, now a retired inspector of the Basel police force, is hospitalised and sharing a room with Stephan Fankhauser, an old acquaintance terminally ill with cancer.

One night, a groggy Hunkeler wakes up to see a young nurse administering an injection to his friend. The following day Fankhauser is found dead. There was no autopsy, and Fankhauser was quickly cremated. Hunkeler resolves to get to the bottom of the matter. His maverick investigation will threaten Switzerland's carefully honed reputation of neutrality during WWII.

'An excellent first mystery and series launch This gripping, plausible debut bodes well for future entries.' Publishers Weekly, starred review

'A magnetic central character, a skillful and unhistrionic telling and a dose of political realism make this book a very welcome arrival.' Morning Star

'Looks ideal for anyone who enjoys reading about detectives like Martin Beck, Wallanderor even Maigret' CrimeFictionLover

'A disturbing picture of a cruelty that has lain undiscussed behind the facade of Swiss propriety and complacency; and all the while he keeps us guessing right to the end.' European Literature Network