The series is set just after WW1 and this is book 2 in the series so far. The main character is Albert Lincoln, an Inspector from Scotland yard who was injured fighting in WW1 and is sent to rural villages to investigate murders that the local police force cannot manage. The story always includes the back stories of soldiers and women who helped with the war effort and I thoroughly enjoy reading a book set in this historical context. This context, combined with scandals such as unwed mothers, servant affairs or deserters from the front line, for example, keeps the reader submerged in the time period.

From the beginning I could not put the book down: it grips you immediately as the first murder is set in a graveyard, in horrific circumstances. It is actually told from the viewpoint of eight characters and their own experiences, prejudices and interpretations make it a fantastic puzzle to uncover the murderer.

I read the book in two days – I was desperate to know ‘who done it.’ I am also a huge Kate Ellis fan. I have read all of her books and her new releases are always on my pre-order reading list; so having already read book 1 in this series, I knew I would enjoy book 2.