The Shadow Step: One taken simultaneously by a pair of dancers facing the same direction, one of them behind and slightly shifted leftwards (“in the shadow”)

A perfectly executed shadow step demonstrates synchronized elegance. It showcases a couple in near telepathic harmony with one another. It does not normally end with someone stone-dead in a lake.

DS Declan Miller is a magnet for strange cases, but an innocent man confessing to the crime? That’s a first. Things rapidly escalate when the murder that isn’t really a murder attracts the unwanted attention of a drug Queenpin, a deranged ex-squaddie, and a lovesick gangland enforcer. And when a real murder follows – and a student is kidnapped – all evidence points back to the same innocent man.

Throw in a wobbly dog, a pair of ceramic leopards, and the distracting smell from a biscuit factory, and Miller’s only option to save a young man’s life is to waltz all the way into the shadows.

Praise for the Detective Miller Series:

“Edge-of-your-seat tension, wit and heart—fantastic.”—Lisa Jewell. #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Family Upstairs

“A gritty, engaging novel that balances light with dark, offering wit and wisdom in equal measure. Billingham’s new lead detective, DS Miller, may not be able to dance, but he never misses a step when it comes to solving crime.”—Nita Prose, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Maid

“Readers rejoice! A captivating new series from Mark Billingham—the very best in the business.”—Richard Osman, #1 bestselling author of The Thursday Murder Club

“Brimming with wit, expertly paced, and wholly enjoyable—The Last Dance is a showcase of Billingham’s exceptionally gifted storytelling. Mark Billingham is at his best!”—Karin Slaughter, New York Times bestselling author of the Will Trent series

“Hard-headed yet big-hearted, DS Declan Miller will have you on the edge of your seat—screaming with laughter one moment and surprise the next. Billingham blends caustic humor, raw emotion, and rollercoaster thrills. His new series is bursting with wit, charm and intriguing, complex characters. Save The Last Dance for when you want a fast, fresh, and totally absorbing read.”—Janice Hallett, bestselling author of The Appeal

“Funny, moving, and full of surprises, The Last Dance will delight Mark Billingham’s old readers, and have new ones flocking to him in droves. An absolute treat.”—Mick Herron, #1 bestselling author of Slow Horses