"John Stone, a man so wealthy that in the years before World War One he was able to manipulate markets, industries and indeed whole countries and continents, has been found dead in mysterious circumstances. His beautiful young widow commissions a journalist to carry out an unusual bequest in his will but as he begins his research he soon discovers a story far more complex than he could have ever imagined..."

This was an entertaining mystery that twisted and turned, and shifted focus regularly, always keeping me on my toes. I also enjoyed the writing, particularly the evocative depiction of Venice. It was no effort at all to be taken straight into the world he was describing.

Will visit Oxford today and leave these books somewhere in Radcliffe Square, and some in the railway station, and any other places I see that are suitable. Also check out railway stations at Didcot Parkway and Bath Spa.