Continues the historical saga that now encompasses the fourth year of American Reconstruction.

"The power of the Union army brings the South to its knees in surrender, but not until a year of intense pain and chaos creates a chasm that may be impossible for the country to bridge. Carrie struggles to hold on to hope as the world caves in around her; hanging on to the promise she has been given. She also finally gets to reveal the secret she has held so close. Moses is gravely wounded in battle. Robert's plantation takes a severe loss, but is...

Chief medical examiner Kay Scarpetta is the reluctant star witness in a sensational murder trial when she receives shocking news. The judge’s sister has been found dead. At first glance, it appears to be a home invasion, but then why was nothing stolen, and why is the garden strewn with dead plants and insects? Although there is no apparent cause of death, Scarpetta recognizes telltale signs of the unthinkable, and she knows the worst is yet to...