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Content snapshot
Flag an inaccuracy →What's in this book, at a glance — five things readers want to know before they start.
Violence
A lot
Significant violence including serial killer crimes and police corruption; some graphic crime elements
Language
Some
Moderate language consistent with adult Rankin fiction
Sexual Content
Barely any
Brief sexual references
Substance Use
Some
Significant alcohol use by Rebus throughout as a character trait
Emotional Intensity
Some
Themes of corruption, justice, and a detective skating the edge of his own moral ruin
What this book is about
The eighth Rebus novel is considered one of Ian Rankin's finest — a dark, complex thriller involving a real Scottish serial killer (Bible John). Violence is significant and the corrupt cop subplot is intense. Adult crime fiction.
Notes for sensitive readers
Reader-flagged moments and themes that may affect your experience.
Serial killer violence
Police corruption
Significant alcohol use
Dark crime fiction
Reader Verification
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