A compelling crime and psychological thriller by John Lescroart, first published in 2012. It is the third and final novel in the Wyatt Hunt, combining a decades-old cold case, family secrets, and an emotionally charged investigation.

Private investigator Wyatt Hunt has never been interested in discovering his biological parents. Raised by loving adoptive parents, he has always been content to leave the past behind—until an anonymous text message changes everything:

"How did your mother die?"

Wyatt soon learns that his birth mother was murdered when he was a child, and that his biological father was tried twice for the crime but never convicted. Driven by a need for answers, Wyatt begins investigating a case that has remained unsolved for over forty years.

As he retraces his family's history, Wyatt uncovers forgotten witnesses, hidden relationships, and long-buried secrets stretching back to the turbulent 1970s. The anonymous texter insists the real killer is still alive—but refuses to reveal their own identity. When Wyatt's investigation triggers fresh violence, he realizes someone is still willing to kill to keep the truth buried. His search eventually connects to the infamous Jonestown tragedy, adding historical depth to an already intricate mystery.

Unlike many action-heavy thrillers, The Hunter places equal emphasis on psychological depth and character development. Wyatt's search for the truth becomes a journey of self-discovery as he confronts his childhood trauma, identity, and the emotional consequences of uncovering a painful past.