The sub-genre of historical mystery is a tough nut to crack. The writer has to be careful not to drown the story with the details of the period, or color the characters with the too modern traits. And lets not forget the whole point of this genre- the puzzle.Pat McIntosh unfortunately fails miserably on all accounts. Far too many characters, the thick Scotish brogue, and realy bad dialogue. By the end I couldn't care less who kiled who and why. As a compulsive buyer of mysteries, I am stuck with two more hardcovers by this author. Serves me right.