It is set in Berlin in 1940, when Hitler is already in power and the Nazi Party controls the city. Germany has invaded Poland, but the German population does not take the war for granted.
The thriller centers on the fact that a doctor is found dead, and his wife doubts the official verdict of suicide. She turns to Inspector Schenke, believing it to be a murder, but despite the police inspector’s interest—who is not a Nazi—his superiors decide to block the investigation. Soon another report, the discovery of a murdered child, begins to reveal links to the doctor who was found dead. However, due to a conflict of interest, the Nazis prevent any further inquiry. The revelation that the regime is applying euthanasia does not seem credible—until it is proven that they are indeed carrying it out. Something considered untouchable, like human dignity, becomes subject to whim, as universal values are lacking.
The novel is well written and engaging. Friendship and moral integrity are highlighted in some respects, although few strong convictions are shown; premarital relationships are treated as commonplace.
Simon Scarrow (1962) is an English writer. After years working as a history teacher, he became famous for his saga novels, particularly the Eagle and Revolution series.