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The year is 1654. The world's greatest detective, Samuel Pipps, is being transported to Amsterdam to be tried and convicted of a crime no one will discuss. His bodyguard, Arent Hayes, accompanies him. Also on the journey is the Governor-General of Batavia who also happens to be Arent's uncle, along with the man's family, including his wife, daughter, mistress and her children. But the voyage is not going to be without incident because they are hardly the only passengers. A demon by the name of Old Tom has also come on board and has threatened the very lives of those on the board the ship. Although the only proof they have of that is Old Tom's symbol, which had been carved into Arent's cheek as a child, and which is suddenly appearing around the ship; and immolated leper who refuses to stay dead; and the promise of three unholy miracles. Arent's uncle puts him on the case despite Arent's declarations that he is no Sammy Pipps. He is joined by Sarah, the governor-general's abused wife who happens to be smart, courageous and willing to do almost anything to get out from under her husband's fist. Her affinity with Arent is unexpected but she embraces it. The mystery is incredibly intricate and the sailors and passengers are rightly terrified of the demon aspect but very few people are telling the truth about either themselves or their motives. When the denouement is finally unveiled it is a surprise to everyone but Arent and Sarah but it is not a cheat to the reader. It is effectively read such that I found reasons to keep listening. I didn't read his first book but I am going to do so. This one is certainly worth reading.