Note: It's not clear whether this contemporary novel contains any speculative elements.

Synopsis: A fire destroys the last business standing in the way of a new shopping mall development. Preston Niblock's wife also dies in the fire and, as the shock wears off, he uncovers the frightening truth about Palace Parade. The developers, Gideon, stand to lose too much if it gets out, so Preston is bribed and blackmailed into keeping quiet. The local shops put out of business by the shopping mall have no intention of going quietly and gather the support of a crusading councillor, brilliant accountant, and the backing of Preston's ill gotten millions. What could go wrong?