Early John Rebus novel

In a run down area of Edinburgh, a junkie is found dead in a building used by squatters.

On a wall near the body of the deceased, officials notice a drawing. It's a five star image with two concentric circles.

Detective Inspector John Rebus is at the scene. His first thought is that it might be some sort of astrology or witchcraft symbol. Perhaps the deceased was killed as part of a satanic ritual or sacrifice?

Rebus's supervisor, Superintendent Watson invites Rebus to an exclusive restaurant to meet some influential men in Edinburgh. The Superintendent and the other men at the table are interested in the drug trade in the area where the body was found. They have a desire to revitalize the area.

When Rebus speaks to the M.E. he finds that the man's death  was from impure heroin laced with rat poison. If there is going to be a use of this, a killer might be active and want to kill more people so Rebus makes the case a priority.

Later, a young squatter named Tracey contacts Rebus. She is about the same age as Rebus's daughter, Sammie. Tracey tells Rebus that the deceased was a friend, The man had been beaten and was afraid someone was coming after him.

The story moves nicely and we get a good picture of Rebus with the usual desires of a man, a good drink and the company of women.

The plot develops in an unexpected but nicely described manner. With good pacing and interesting characters who are well described. the story has all of the elements of an engrossing read.