The next chapter could be your last...

The annual December gathering of the local book club is usually a relaxed affair, a chance for old acquaintances to catch up. But this year, the convivial evening takes a sinister turn. Detective Inspector Barton is called to investigate and quickly uncovers a web of dark secrets and long-held resentments hidden beneath the club's friendly facade.

When murder is confirmed, Barton finds himself in a race against time to unmask the killer before they strike again. But with every clue he uncovers, the truth becomes more twisted than he could ever have imagined.

In a group where everyone knows everyone, trust is a dangerous game, and this cold-blooded killer is ready to fool them all...

Barton is Back! Ross Greenwood returns to his bestselling series, perfect for fans of Mark Billingham and Ian Rankin.

Readers love Inspector Barton:

‘I’ve devoured these books. I love a main character, especially a police man, who is devoted and loves his wife. You don’t get that much anymore in books and media. Brilliant author, brilliant character and brilliant storyline.’

‘Another great read from Ross Greenwood. Love the DI Barton series. Another page turner and keeps you guessing until the end.’

‘What another amazing, addictive, can't put it down book. The twists and turns kept me guessing who was guilty, who I had the most sympathy for, who I wanted next on Santa's list and who would have a happy ending, who else would be next. I fell in love with Barton's character, he's the kind of guy I'd go for a night on the town with.’

‘I've thoroughly enjoyed this series and loved all the characters that have developed over each book. The issues included in the stories have been gritty, serious, humorous, sad and down to earth with realistic and relatable threads. DI Barton is a wonderful character as are Zander and Strange, a solid 3 favourites!’

Praise for Ross Greenwood:

‘Ross Greenwood is at the top of his game.' O J Mullen

'Move over Rebus and Morse; a new entry has joined the list of great crime investigators in the form of Detective Inspector John Barton. A rich cast of characters and an explosive plot kept me turning the pages until the final dramatic twist.' Richard Burke

‘Master of the psychological thriller genre Ross Greenwood once again proves his talent for creating engrossing and gritty novels that draw you right in and won’t let go until you’ve reached the shocking ending.’ Caroline Vincent at Bitsaboutbooks blog

'Ross Greenwood doesn’t write clichés. What he has written here is a fast-paced, action-filled puzzle with believable characters that's spiced with a lot of humour.' Kath Middleton