Blind psychiatrist Mark Angelotti has just enrolled in a drug trial that holds out hope of restoring his eyesight when he again becomes entangled in a case that is rocking the Chicago legal community. After defending the manufacturer of the powerful antipsychotic drug Lucitrol against product-liability claims, attorney Jane Barrett has become somewhat of an expert on the controversial medication. So when her lover, investigative journalist Rory Gallagher, collapses from a fatal dose of the same drug, it falls to Hallie Sanchez, Barrett’s oldest friend, to defend her on murder charges. Amid growing doubts about her friend’s innocence, Hallie recruits Mark Angelotti to help her discredit the testimony of a crucial eyewitness. The pair succeeds in obtaining Barrett’s release, but at a dreadful price. Mark sets out to investigate who else may have wanted the journalist out of the way. As he gets closer to the truth, he realizes the killer is still on the loose. But two questions remain for Mark: Will the drug trial succeed in restoring his eyesight? More important, will he live long enough to see this case to its end?
Lynne Raimondo is a full-time writer and the author of Dante's Wood, the first Mark Angelotti novel. She formerly worked as the general counsel for Arthur Andersen LLP and later as the general counsel of the Illinois Department of Revenue.
“A remarkable novel, with unexpected plot twists that will keep readers guessing. The characters are especially noteworthy, with strong backstories and engaging personalities. Mark Angelotti, in particular, doesn't succumb to despair and depression over the curves life has thrown him, but instead moves forward with a combination of strength and humor. Suspenseful and fast-paced, this mystery thriller is highly recommended.”
—Mysterious Reviews
"A smart protagonist and a mystery that keeps readers guessing....”
—RT Book Reviews
“Raimondo’s flawed, complex and courageous protagonist refuses to give in to his disability. In fact, his heightened intuition and awareness make him an unusual but compelling detective in this brisk, well-crafted second adventure in the series.”
—Kirkus Reviews
“The major catch in a book loaded with booby traps is that Angelotti, the psychiatrist, is blind. He’s also the story’s narrator, which means, all too deliciously, that the reader’s view of the novel’s events comes from a character who can’t see what’s going on.”
—Toronto Star
"Continually surprises . . . intricately constructed [and] an engrossing read with twists and turns all the way to the end."
—Library Journal
“Well-crafted. . .appealing...."
—Publishers Weekly
“The courtroom drama shines in this terrific mystery! Complex, authentic, surprising—and a page-turning master class in character. With his dry wit and heartbreaking vulnerability, this engaging and compelling hero will change your perception and win your heart.”
—HANK PHILLIPPI RYAN, Anthony, Agatha, Macavity and Mary Higgins Clark Award-winning author
“A mesmerizing read. Lynne Raimondo navigates the courtroom and the psychiatrist’s office with considerable skill, and in Mark Angelotti she has created one of the most memorable protagonists in crime fiction.”
—BRAD PARKS, Shamus, Nero, and Lefty Award–winning author of The Player
