When a series of sadistic murders begin to haunt the once quiet town of Worthybridge, DCI William 'Billy' Thompson and DS Lee Shupe, find themselves chasing a ghost. No forensics. No witnesses. No evidence. Nothing. Nothing except a growing list of bodies.

It bears all the hallmarks of a trained killer. But why would a trained killer be murdering innocent people in a town like Worthybridge?

All they have to go on is a cryptic message left at the scene. A clue to the killer's identity - or a fool's errand? Moreover, why are some victims granted mercy? What sick game is the killer playing?

With increasing pressure from the community, the press, and the case taking its toll on his family, DCI Thompson decides to step down from the investigation. But the killer has other ideas.

Billy's world is thrown into confusion when the killer's identity is finally revealed, but nothing has prepared him for what is to follow.

In a final, deadly confrontation, Billy is forced to battle his own demons - demons he thought he'd never have to face again.

In life, as in sport - winning is everything.