When the past comes calling, you can run, but you can't hide

'Saying farewell to the dark side doesn't mean the dark side wants rid of you. And I was about to be reminded of that fact.'

1970, St Pauls, Bristol. A new decade, and JT Ellington has stepped away from the private-eye game to scratch a living, respectable at last, as a school caretaker.

His nights are full of torment – guilt and ghosts that no prayers will banish. But it's not until the past comes calling in the unwelcome form of Superintendent Fletcher that JT's resolve is truly tested.

Fletcher has a job for JT – one that can't be refused. A young man, Nikhil Suresh, has disappeared hours before his wedding; rumours abound and his family is distraught.

With blood money in his pocket, JT is plunged into a demi-monde of vice, violence and forbidden passion. An extraordinary, malevolent enemy is intent on destroying him. Now, seeking survival and redemption, JT must play as dirty and dangerous as those who want him dead.

'Page turning historical detective fiction at its finest.' – Dermot O'Leary

'This is terrific crime fiction – evocative, socially aware and gripping – and JT Ellington is a compelling protagonist.' – Mark Billingham