A stunner . . . an unforgettable novel' SUNDAY TIMES 'A crisp and chilling account of temptation and transgression that fans of Patricia Highsmith will adore' INDEPENDENT 'A fascinating, succinct and stylish thriller from Italy' GUARDIAN 'Raises the standard for crime fiction. Carofiglio's insights into human nature, good and bad, are breathtaking' JEFFERY DEAVER One hot summer, as world-weary bloodhound Lieutenant Chiti spends sleepless nights hunting for the serial sex attacker terrorising his city, trainee lawyer Giorgio is befriended by dangerously charismatic Francesco. Slowly the innocent Giorgio is lured into a corrupt world of beautiful women, card sharps and casual violence, in dingy poker dens and luxury villas. Then one terrifying night Giorgio is forced to realise just how far he has left his past behind... The Past is a Foreign Country is a stunning psychological thriller from an acknowledged master at the height of his powers.