A bomb explodes in the heart of Marseille, and three mutilated bodies are found. But no-one claims this act of terrorism, and the investigation is at a stand-still. Chief police inspector Paul Cabrera is sent to work with the anti-terrorist cell. Cabrera is from Marseille, he knows the city’s street-life, its codes and its informers. In addition, his uncle is amongst the victims. Guided by his instinct but motivated by his need for revenge, Cabrera unravels a complex net of terror. He is helped by a barrister, a woman of doubtful motivations who nevertheless provides him with precious information. Meanwhile, a young judge makes a series of apparently unrelated discoveries. From Marseille to Corsica, London and Pakistan, connections are made and three investigations become entangled. As the past resurfaces, two worlds come into conflict. Cabrera conducts his latest investigation in his usual ruffian’s fashion, making his way through a world dominated by violence and death.
A former barrister, Olivier Descosse now works as a script-writer and novelist. His novel, Le Couloir de la pieuvre, is being adapted to the screen. Le Pacte rouge is his forth novel.