1987. Nete Rosen thought she'd put her traumatic childhood behind her. Her caring foster parents and then a loving husband gave her a new start again. However, when a man from her past reappears one night, Nete's new life could be shattered. But she won't be drawn back into that nightmare - she won't be a victim again . . . 2010. Detective Inspector Carl Morck from Copenhagen's cold cases division is looking into the disappearance of Rita Nielsen, an escort-agency owner. The investigation reveals that Rita is only one piece of the puzzle. Because this is not a one-off incident - but part of a disturbing pattern which has been hidden from prying eyes for over twenty years . . . Praise for Jussi Adler-Olsen 'Gripping storytelling.' Guardian 'Engrossing.' Sunday Express 'As impressive as it is unnerving.' Independent