While retreating through Yugoslavia with the rest of the army in his new position in the military police, Captain Gregor Reinhardt witnesses a massacre of civilians - only to discover there is more to the incident than anyone believes.
When five mutilated bodies turn up, Reinhardt knows the stakes are growing more important - and more dangerous.
As his investigation begins to draw the attention of those in power, Reinhardt's friends and associates are made to suffer. But as he desperately tries to uncover the truth, his own past with the Ustase threatens his efforts.
Because when it comes to death and betrayal, some people have long memories. And they remember Reinhardt all too well.
And now, Reinhardt will have to fight them once more.
'A wonderfully accomplished war-time thriller' Crime Time
'a multilayered tale of war, political upheaval and fragile hope'** **Kirkus Reviews**
From the author of The Man from Berlin, shortlisted for the CWA Endeavour Historical Dagger
German intelligence officer Captain Gregor Reinhardt has just been reassigned to the Feldjaegerkorps - a new branch of the military police with far-reaching powers. His position separates him from the friends and allies he has made in the last two years, including a circle of fellow dissenting Germans who formed a rough resistance cell against the Nazis. And he needs them now more than ever.
While retreating through Yugoslavia with the rest of the army, Reinhardt witnesses a massacre of civilians by the dreaded UstaSe - only to discover there is more to the incident than anyone believes. When five mutilated bodies turn up, Reinhardt knows the stakes are growing more important - and more dangerous.
As his investigation begins to draw the attention of those in power, Reinhardt's friends and associates are made to suffer. But as he desperately tries to uncover the truth, his own past with the UstaSe threatens his efforts. Because when it comes to death and betrayal, some people have long memories. And they remember Reinhardt all too well.
'Reinhardt is a terrific creation' - Times
'What makes the book terrific is the humanity and hope that shine through even the darkest of scenes' - Herald
'If you like Philip Kerr's Bernie Gunther books, you will love The Ashes of Berlin. Luke McCallin has skilfully crafted an atmospheric and gripping tale set amid the ruins of a war ravaged city that feels wholly authentic. Historical fiction at its best' - Howard Linskey, author of Behind Dead Eyes
Look out for other books in the Gregor Reinhardt series: The Man from Berlin and The Ashes of Berlin