I'm a big fan of Solomon Gray as I'm always drawn to troubled men (if only this wasn't the truth)! Having followed Sol's adventures through the three previous books - Dig Two Graves, Burn The Evidence, and Beg For Mercy, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one! And happily, I wasn't disappointed.
Gray is still searching for his missing son, Tom. He's closer than he's ever been to knowing the truth, but it's still just out of reach. And then, like it does, life gets in the way - he's working on a new case, his daughter's pregnant and he has to testify at the inquest into the death of his late boss, and former friend. One good thing is that Sol has a new love interest. Well, maybe not love exactly, but certainly a lovely distraction!
The story is written mainly in the present, but with flashbacks to around the time Tom was abducted. The first chapter is full of OMG moments, and my heart was in my mouth! I was hooked immediately. And kept turning the pages until the end. And what an ending - I didn't know whether to smile or cry.
It was great to be back in Margate again. Having read several of Keith's books, although I've never been there, Margate feels like an old friend that I know well. It's almost a character in itself.
I can't really say much more without giving away spoilers. Yes, this is a crime story, and it's full of action, but ultimately this is a tale of a man searching for the truth. It's about betrayal. And it's about love. It's beautifully written, and for those of us who've followed Sol's journey, it answers some questions. And uncovers some nasty stuff. It's a brilliant, satisfying read, but I would suggest it's best enjoyed if you've read the previous books in the series which are also great). This could be the last we hear of Gray, but I have a feeling (and a hope) that it won't be!