
What was the identity behind the name and face: a would be assassin, or just another victim beneath an indifferent California sky? Intrigued by a request from the sniper’s father to conduct a ‘psychological autopsy’ of his child, Alex begins to uncover a strange pattern of innocence, neglect, and loss. While the TV news crews feasted on the scene an Alex began his therapy sessions with the traumatized children, he couldn’t escape the image of a slight teenager clutching an oversized rifle.


Alex Delaware reached the school the damage was done: A sniper had opened fire on a crowded playground, but was gunned down before any children were hurt.

Edgar Award winner Jonathan Kellerman once more explores the corruption of California’s golden coast and produces a novel of complex characterizations and nonstop suspense.
