When I read the description of this book I was thoroughly intrigued by the components of this story; particularly the character of Inspector Rutledge being a WWI veteran haunted by the voice of Hamish. I really expected to enjoy reading this book, however I was very disappointed. I found the Hamish/Rutledge characterization to be very interesting, but the remainder of the characters in this story were not well developed and practically a cliche'. Most of the plot I found predictable and I am sorry to say that within the first 15 pages I guessed one major plot point, before the middle of the book, I knew 'whodunit'. If you are looking for something that's compelling reading, pass this by.