A hitman bursts into the home of wealthy accountant Keith Rothwell, takes him to the garage and shoots him in cold blood while his wife and daughter are inside the house. DCI Banks is instantly struck by the way the victim's family has responded to the shocking event. Evidence reveals Rothwell has been living a double life, and Banks and DI Helen Morton work together tentatively to investigate the murder of a mysterious victim with two identities. Possible links to a money-laundering operation plunge them into a high-profile fraud investigation with political ramifications. Alan's friend, Pamela Jefferies lies in a coma following a viicious attack, and Banks becomes even more determined to find Rothwell's killer. Against orders, he questions MP Martin Fleming which puts him on a collission course with former rival DCI Burgess. Meanwhile, DI Morton pursues another suspect and puts pressure on Rothwell's family.