Skulduggery

Ancient bones draw an anthropologist into a deadly chase around San Francisco in this romantic suspense mystery from a New York Times–bestselling author.

"What an enjoyable and compelling mystery Hart has crafted that combines history, anthropology, and romance and showcases her talent as an author." —King's River LifeMagazine

"You're the bone lady, aren't you?"

San Francisco, 1980s: Anthropologist Ellen Christie's date plans quickly change after a knock at her door. A frantic stranger named Jimmy says he has evidence of the ancient remains of the famed "Peking Man." It's a little hard to believe since the bones went missing in China in 1941, but if the bones are real, they belong in her museum. Ellen decides to throw caution to the wind and accompany Jimmy to inspect the remains.

Arriving at Jimmy's Chinatown apartment, they meet Jimmy's handsome brother, Dan, but thugs show up a moment later, forcing Jimmy to flee with the bones. To protect Jimmy, Ellen and Dan must follow his trail through Chinatown's underbelly and navigate their way around some of San Francisco's elite criminals. Uncertain if she can trust Jimmy or her growing attraction to Dan, Ellen begins to wonder if her dreams of academic stardom have led her into a nightmare . . .

"Skulduggery combines a priceless archeological treasure with an evocative rendering of San Francisco's Chinatown in this surprising standalone." —Margaret Maron, author of the Judge Deborah Knott series

"Evocative and suspenseful. . . . New readers will go on to [Hart's] other books and discover why this mistress of mystery is, indeed, a national treasure." —Katherine Hall Page, author of the Faith Fairchild Mystery series

"An entertaining dash through San Francisco's Chinatown with attractive detectives and a fascinating look at a real historical mystery. . . . Hard to put down." —JoAnna Carl, author of the Chocoholic Mystery series

Originally published in 1984.