The first novel in the series featuring forensic detective Lincoln Rhyme--from the author of The Never Game. Lincoln Rhyme was once a brilliant criminologist, a genius in the field of forensics--until an accident left him physically and emotionally shattered. But now a diabolical killer is challenging Rhyme to a terrifying and ingenious duel of wits. With police detective Amelia Sachs by his side, Rhyme must follow a labyrinth of clues that reaches back to a dark chapter in New York City's past--and reach further into the darkness of the mind of a madman who won't stop until he has stripped life down to the bone. Includes the short story "A Perfect Plan" and a chapter from The Midnight Lock.