When I first read this I was shocked - by its incredible originality, style and sheer top-quality. The characters are some of the most carefully formed, interesting, and complicated I have ever come across. The plot is great too, filled with twists at every corner that leave you stumbling in the dark in this maze of a mystery. The dialogue is pin sharp - full of smart, wry observations - especially from the character Anne Cattrel who is no shrinking violet to put it mildly. She is brash, honest, and funny and her conversations with Seargant Andy McLoughlin are simply stunning. I am so surprised this is Minette Walters first novel because, in my opinion it is her best. There are simply so many layers in this book, and it just gets better and better. The action scenes near the end are brilliant - the kind that makes you feel horrified and excited at the same time. What else can I say? Just read it!