Whenever an Anne Perry book is released, I drop everything; I stop whatever I'm reading at the time; I pick up that book with delicious anticipation, and I'm never disappointed. This new William and Hester Monk story is another excellent read, keeping to the exceptionally high quality of writing and story that Perry always delivers. Fans know that they are going to discover fascinating, and, yes, gory, details of mid-19th century medicine because of Hester's nursing background. This is no exception, as Hester must relive gruesome memories of the devastating Crimean War in which she served under Clara Barton. Perry explores PSTD in an historical setting, while setting up a series of horrific murders in the Hungarian immigrant community of London. Perry also explores the all too relevant dilemma of immigrants -- the distrust and hatred of the native population, as well as the uncertainty and troubles of settling in a new country by the immigrants. As always, Perry brings relevancy to these historical stories.