The 27th novel in Anne Perry's highly acclaimed crime series featuring Inspector Thomas Pitt.

1896. Newly promoted to Head of Special Branch, Thomas Pitt is forced to face the danger his new position brings when he uncovers the work of a traitor in his department. Not knowing who to trust, he must unmask the conspirator, whist simultaneously protecting a suspected target, Austrian state visitor Duke Alois.

Meanwhile, Victor Narraway is investigating the mysterious death of Serafina Monserrat. Once the holder of many sensitive, political secrets, Serafina had suffered from dementia in her later years and Narraway is unsure whether what he has uncovered in his search for answers is the confused ramblings of an old woman, or a catastrophic plot which could trigger a war the likes of which the world has never seen before.

As the two investigations come ever closer it is clear that bluff and double-bluff are at play. When Pitt finally comes face to face with the suspected traitor will he, knowing the fate of the world is at stake, find the strength to stop the man by any means necessary?

The third exciting book by Anne Perry in Barrington Stoke's brilliant Timepiece series:

When Rosie travels back in time she arrives on a ship bound for America.  She soon discovers that she is on an illegal slave ship, trading after the abolition of slavery.  First it seems there's nothing she can do until the crew all start turning blind.  It's up to Rosie to keep the ship running until they reach America.  A touching and thought provoking story giving an insight into the cruelty of the slave trade to struggling readers.

Publication date:  24 February 2012.