Some readers may feel cheated in that Van Veeteren is not the lead detective in this latest story, number 6 in this series. However he does hover and meet with Munster from time to time, and he is often noticed in his absence and remembered for his sayings and methods. In this way we learn more about him and his team blossoms in his absence. A simple story of Shakespearean quality, a clever mystery which exposes motives, responsibility and love. There is misdirection from the start but this baffling of the reader mirrors the confusion of the detective team. Masterfully crafted insights into a dysfunctional family who seem reluctant to reveal their secrets. Two gruesome murders; lives changed forever but no-one seems to have seen or heard anything. What I really like about Nesser's writing is its economy of words, rich descriptions, in setting of mood and character but always leaving the reader time to absorb the writing. When the book finishes you are pleased about the time you have t