However, she is afraid to get involved because of her diagnosis.Ī new lead takes them to Cincinnati, Ohio, where a third couple, James and Kathy Voskuhl, were killed during their wedding reception at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Lindsay determines that Melanie Brandt and Becky DeGeorge got their dresses from the bridal department at Saks 5th Avenue, which had its bridal information stolen a month ago, possibly providing the connection between the two couples.Īs Lindsay investigates these crimes, she finds herself drawn to Chris. Claire performs the postmortems and discovers that, like Melanie Brandt, Becky DeGeorge was sexually assaulted, and that the killer left behind a beard hair. Both are missing their wedding rings, just like the Brandts. The bodies of the DeGeorges are discovered. Lindsay shares inside information with them in hopes they can help her find new avenues to explore. The three women hit it off and discuss the case. Lindsay decides to invite Cindy and Clair to dinner. As Lindsay and Chris speak to the Napa detective, Cindy shows up and confesses to having followed Lindsay all weekend. The following Sunday, Chris calls Lindsay to let her know another newlywed couple, Michael and Becky DeGeorge, has disappeared in Napa Valley after an odd anonymous phone call to their hotel. The first week of the investigation does not turn up many leads. Lindsay wants to interview all the wedding guests, but Chris wants to tread lightly since many of the guests are high profile people. Claire Washburn, the medical examiner, informs them that the tuxedo jacket found at the scene does not belong to the male victim. Lindsay and Chris clash over the first steps in the investigation after Dr. As she is leaving, she meets reporter Cindy Thomas, who offers Lindsay her business card.Ĭaptain Chris Raleigh takes charge of the case for the mayor’s office. Lindsay inspects the crime scene and becomes uncharacteristically emotional. The victims are newlyweds David and Melanie Brandt.

Inspector Lindsay Boxer is diagnosed with aplastic anemia, a rare and potentially fatal blood disorder, on the same morning she is called to a double homicide. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or a crisis, please reach out immediately to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 80 or text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741.

It also features descriptions of suicidality and suicidal ideation. Please note: This novel features descriptions of domestic abuse, sexual assault, and other forms of violence.

This guide refers to the 2001 paperback version of the novel published by Grand Central Publishing in arrangement with Little, Brown and Company.

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