Originally published: London : Heinemann, 1998.

"In a small village at the foot of the Italian Dolomites, not far from Venice, the gardens of a deserted farmhouse have lain untouched for decades. But the new owner, anxious for renovations to begin, is summoned to the house when his workmen disturb a macabre grave...Then a valuable signet ring is found nearby. It is the first clue to reignite an infamous cold case of kidnapping and disappearance involving one of Venice's oldest families. Only Commissioner Guido Brunetti can unravel the clues"--p.[4] of cover.