Two young British students, Nazim Jamal and Rafi Hassan vanish without a trace. The police tell their parents that the boys had been under surveillance, that it was likely they left the country to pursue their dangerous new ideals. Seven years later, Nazim's grief-stricken mother is still unconvinced. Jenny Cooper is her last hope.

Jenny is finally beginning to settle into her role as Coroner for the Severn Valley; the ghosts of her past that threatened to topple her, banished to the sidelines once more. But as the inquest into Nazim's disappearance gets underway, the stink of corruption and conspiracy becomes clear...

M. R. Hall is a screenwriter and producer and was a former criminal barrister. Educated at Hereford Cathedral School and Worcester College, Oxford, he lives in the Wye Valley in Monmouthshire with his wife, journalist Patricia Carswell, and two sons. Aside from writing, his main passion is the preservation and planting of woodland.

Sian Thomas has made many appearances on stage, in particular The Price (Theatregoers' Choice Award), Up for Grabs (Olivier Award nomination), and as Lady Macbeth for the RSC. Television and film credits include Tears Before Bedtime, Wide-Eyed and Legless, Richard II, Crossings and Vanity Fair.