This novella is a prequel to the excellent Matilda Darke Series, and takes place shortly after the MIT Team has been formed and shortly after Matilda’s promotion to the DCI. It also takes place before Matilda’s husband’s death, which occurs before the first book, and it is interesting to see that relationship prior to his death.

A coach driver, and former soap star, is found dead at his flat, following a break in, however Matilda and her team aren’t sure about the break in as nothing has been taken. Matilda is convinced the murder relates to his past so the team set off to investigate.

I enjoyed this book much more than I usually do with novellas, but that is because I already knew the key characters so was invested in the series from the beginning. I feel this is aided by Michael Wood’s excellent writing and slow build up of the case as we get to know more about the victim; it’s rather like the layer’s of an onion slowly being peeled off.

Overall this was a very enjoyable read and it’s good to see the key characters in their early days. As with the rest of the series this is very well-plotted and there are the usual surprises and twists throw in, as well as some lead in to themes that will appear in the main series. I throughly recommend this novella, especially if you have read any of the Matilda Darke Series. I feel you will get more out of it if you have already read some of the series. If you haven’t read the series I very strongly recommend it as it is one of my favourite crime series but be read for a real rollercoaster ride as Michael isn’t always kind to his characters. ( )

Fairly predictable murder mystery, although there was a bit of a twist as to the circumstances surrounding the murder. Lots of foreshadowing with regards to the first book. 2.5 stars. ( )