Something is savaging Augustus Baltazar's many wounds. Is the voice in his head the Shadow Lord, or is Solani tricking him with mind games? Can he stop the incessant rotting before it becomes too much, and consumes his very soul? DI Merrick encounters similar difficulties, after playing his hand that results in unexpected disaster. The loss of his closest colleague and the tragic circumstances of his past have become heavier than stone. Find out which path they both take. For Stu, it could be a life of darkness and decay alongside the man of fire, or the understanding and openness with the woman he yearns and is slowly falling for. For Merrick, it could be a descent into darker territory, or a salvation that no-one is willing to offer. This is the second thrilling novel in the Augustus Baltazar series from author Neil Bursnoll.