The Ghost Orchid

The Ghost Orchid delves into the murky waters of love, betrayal, and the hidden lives of its characters against the backdrop of Los Angeles' opulent yet shadowy landscape.

The Plot

When two lovers are discovered lifeless in a lavish swimming pool at a Bel Air estate, the scene is set for a chilling investigation. The deceased—a wealthy married woman and a playboy heir—appear to be caught in a scandalous affair. However, as LAPD homicide lieutenant Milo Sturgis teams up with psychologist Alex Delaware, the case reveals itself to be far more complex than mere infidelity.

With no signs of forced entry or forensic clues, Sturgis and Delaware must navigate the victims' tangled histories, peeling back layers of deception that lead them into the darker undercurrents of their city. As they unearth past traumas and hidden motives, they confront the pervasive themes of obsession and the consequences of a life led by desire.

Themes

• Complex Relationships: The novel explores the intricacies of love and betrayal, examining how personal connections can lead to tragic outcomes.
• Dark Urban Life: Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, the story provides a commentary on the glamor and grit of the city.
• Psychological Depth: Kellerman's use of a psychologist as a protagonist adds layers of insight into the human psyche.

Fans of Jonathan Kellerman's previous works, such as Blood Test and Flesh and Blood, will appreciate the intricate plotting and psychological nuance that characterise this latest mystery.