"A skillful blend of mystery with historical world events."

Dr. Joseph Reavley is still reeling from the shock of his parents' sudden death in a car crash when he's rocked by news of the murder of one of his favorite students at Cambridge. The crime sends ripples of fear and suspicion throughout the normally quiet campus.

Then Joseph's brother, Matthew, a member of the British intelligence community, tells Joseph he thinks their parents were murdered, too. His father was bringing him a secret document of global consequence - a document that is now missing.

As the world around them hurtles toward World War I, Joseph and Matthew work to solve the murders, ultimately wondering if everything is somehow connected. Is there really some vast evil conspiracy at work? The investigation shakes Joseph's faith even as he tries to comfort family and friends.

To be honest, my taste in mysteries has always run toward the wisecracking detective, but Anne Perry has a sterling reputation and after reading this book, I see why. She skillfully blends a murder mystery with world events, while at the same time creating characters we truly care about. Her vibrant descriptions make readers feel as if they're strolling on the Cambridge campus or in the English countryside. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and am looking forward to the next one in the series.

Reviewed by Lenore Howard
Courtesy Old Book Barn Gazette
Posted August 19, 2003