“Edgar–winner Cook examines the slow collapse of a prominent Southern family in this magnificent tale of suspense.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review)
In 1954 Mississippi, Jack Branch returns to his father’s Delta estate, Great Oaks, to start what he considers a noble act: teaching at the local high school. Leading a class discussion on historical evil, Jack is shocked to discover that his unassuming student Eddie is the son of the Coed Killer, a notorious local murderer.
Jack feels compelled to mentor the boy, encouraging Eddie to examine his father’s crime and using his own good name to open the doors that Eddie’s lineage can’t. But when Eddie’s investigation leads him to Great Oaks and to Jack’s own father, Jack finds himself questioning Eddie’s motives—and his own.
As the deadly consequences of Jack’s actions fall inescapably into place, Thomas H. Cook masterfully reveals the darker truths that lurk in the depths of small-town lives and in the hearts of even well-intentioned men.
“Beautifully written and heavily muscled with character and intrigue, this novel is a tour de force.” —Michael Connelly
“The plot is laced with unexpected twists, and Cook’s writing is deeply atmospheric.” —Associated Press
“[An] enthralling tale . . . thrilling.” —The New York Times Book Review
“A joy to read . . . nearly perfect.” —The Kansas City Star
