After several tries, I could not finish this book. I have read all of Patricia Cornwell's previous books and expected some continuation of her captivating Scarpetta series. This book seemed like she was working in another direction, many directions, but perhaps I didn't hang in there long enough to see it pulled together. It is rare than I do not finish a book I begin. If this would have been the first Cornwell book I read, it would definitely have been the last. I eagerly await the release of Cornwell's new books, but this one was a real disappointment.