In this hard-boiled mystery by the USA Todaybestselling author of Dead Even, a coroner investigates a suspicious house fire.
It's Christmas Day in the sleepy town of Sorenson, Wisconsin, but instead of unwrapping presents, deputy coroner Mattie Winston is at the burnt remains of a house, where a charred body has been found. The victim is none other than Jack Allena paraplegic who recently won a huge casino jackpot. Upon closer inspection, Mattie and detective Steve Hurley are convinced Jack was murdered to steal his winnings, giving the phrase Black Jack a whole new meaning . . .
But as Mattie investigates, even her cutting-edge forensic skills keep coming up short in a case with as many suspects as twists. After her odds-on-favorite turns up dead, Mattie and Hurley must race to find a killer before another victim cashes in his chips.
"A puzzler of a mystery. What a thrill ride!"New York Timesbestselling authorJenn McKinlay
Praise for Annelise Ryan and her Mattie Winston series
"Has it all: suspense, laughter, a spicy dash of romance."New York Timesbestselling author Tess Gerritsen
"The forensic details will interest Patricia Cornwell readers . . .while the often slapstick humor and the blossoming romance between Mattie and Hurley will draw Evanovich fans."Booklist