Read the clues, decode the science and reveal the murderer - this is Reilly Steel's mantra. But unfortunately the Quantico-trained forensic investigator is finding out that her skills are not enough when a ferociously intelligent killer decides to strike. With two separate murders with no seemingly obvious connection the modus operandi is as perplexing as it is gruesome. What is the connection between these high-profile victims? Their corpses refuse to give up their secrets and the crime scenes prove unhelpful and Reilly soon begins to suspect that she may be dealing with a killer - or killers - who know all about crime scene investigation. It is only when there is another murder that a pattern begins to emerge. This killer is using a very specific blueprint for his crimes - with an ultimate prize in his sights. Who will the killer's next victim be? Will it be the real target? And what is the end game going to be?