this book fills the gap between the specialized, academic works with a narrow focus on one part of the process, and popular books on forensic psychology. it is a comprehensive guide, aimed at professionals, that starts with the interview of the victim of the crime, moving through the interviewing of suspects, to the decision to prosecute and enhancing the quality of evidence presented in court. other topics discussed include: false allegations, false confessions, offender profiling and victim support. throughout, the theme of the book is that the chain of events leading to the successful investigation and prosecution of offences is only as strong as the weakest link, and should be considered as a coherent whole.