Devil in the Detail

In British author Cross’s workmanlike sequel to 2019’s Dark Truths, the Birmingham police consult criminologist Will Traynor after a series of carjackings turn deadly. The city has been hit by six such crimes in less than a month; in each case, the vehicle was stopped at a traffic light before the passenger window was smashed so that the robber could steal the victim’s car. The crime wave has already landed on the plate of Det. Insp. Bernard Watts, but the pressure ratchets up after a couple, Michael and Molly Lawrence, are both shot in their car. Michael, an interior designer, dies in hospital, and the seriously injured Molly, who’s pregnant, can’t remember exactly what happened. Traynor doubts that the attack on the Lawrences is the work of the same criminal or criminals responsible for the earlier carjackings. The investigation proceeds along predictable lines, and Cross leaves little doubt as to whether her lead’s theory will be vindicated. Readers looking for novelty or depth will be disappointed. Agent: Camilla Bolton, Darley Anderson Literary (U.K.). (May)