A REMOTE HOTEL. FIVE GUESTS. ONE MURDER.

A rising star of Australian crime fiction ‘ SUNDAY TIMES

‘S. R. White is the real deal.’ CHRIS HAMMER, author of SCRUBLANDS

During a broiling heatwave, the inner circle of a high-profile charity attend a critical meeting at White Ash Ridge, a small hotel nestled in the Australian wilderness.

As the temperature rises, a body is found lying in the thick bush, bludgeoned to death.

One of the four remaining guests is a murderer – but who, and why, is a mystery.

Detective Dana Russo knows the national spotlight will be sharply focused on the case.

The charity was formed when the founders’ teenage son was killed after intervening in a vicious assault – sparking public outrage and a damning verdict on the police investigation.

But under huge pressure and with few clues – plus suspects who instinctively distrust the police – how can Dana unravel the truth?

Praise for S. R. White:

‘A taut, beautifully observed slow-burner with an explosive finish’ Peter May

‘Original, compelling and highly recommended’ Chris Hammer

‘Gripping’ THE GUARDIAN

‘A fascinating case’ SUNDAY TIMES

‘It draws you in – and rewards with a truly powerful ending’ HEAT

‘This slow-burn novel catches light’ THE SUN

‘The story takes place over less than 48 hours but the pace is slow-burn, relying on considerable psychological depth…the denouement hits like a knockout punch’ WEEKEND AUSTRALIAN

‘A dark and compulsive read’ WOMAN & HOME