The second story in the alternate post World War 2 book. Inspector Carmichael comes back for another turn, while the female lead is new. Our female lead this time is Viola Lark, an actress, formerly of a good family.
This was a good book, and stands alone. Unfortunately, despite standing alone just fine, it still felt somewhat like the middle book of a trilogy. I liked it, but the ending (with the MacBeth quotes) and distress seemed overwrought. Getting there, the book is much more solid; I liked the conspiracy and relations of conspirators, and the investigation arm. Carmichael continues to develop– not nicely, but the effects of the last book linger.
I liked it, and would read it again as part of rereading the trilogy. As a stand alone, I’d rarely pick it up.