In the sequel to the bestselling novel, KILLER, Stephen Carpenter has entangled his character, mystery writer Jack Rhodes, in a web of sex, murder, and money--this time in Hollywood, where Jack spent his early years as a screenwriter.

Jack's past comes back to haunt him when a B-movie actress-turned-hooker, Penelope Fox, is found murdered in a suite at the Chateau Marmont. Jack's friend, FBI Agent Melvin Beauchamp, discovers shocking news: Penelope was Jack's wife.

Jack cooperates with the investigation and uncovers memories of his brief, drunken fling with Penelope. He also learns he may have a daughter--15 year-old Karen, who becomes Suspect Number One in the murder of her mother. On the run with Karen, Jack revisits unsavory characters from his past to solve to puzzle of Penelope's murder--and find out if Karen really is his daughter.

Gripping and rich with detail from current Hollywood culture, KILLER IN THE HILLS is a ripped-from-the-headlines story that will keep you guessing right until the shattering conclusion.