content: I've read most of the Pitt books (loved most of them) and have just started the Monk series. This was my least favorite of all Anne Perry's novels. It was compelling insofar as I had to keep reading to see the conclusion, but I figured out the villian early on in the book. And, quite honestly, as has been stated in other reviews, it really stretched the imagination to accept all the scenarios regarding the family members. And, the bickering between Monk and Hester is distracting. I'm sticking with William Monk because I love his character and, I want to see the relationship between him and Hester flourish. This series, more so than the Pitt series, I believe, is better read in order.