The Union occupation of New Orleans provides the backdrop for the latest novel from Proctor (Whispers of Heaven; Women, Equality and the French Revolution), a versatile author whose firsthand knowledge of the region and vivid descriptions infuse this story with a strong sense of place. A series of tragic incidents draw Emmanuelle de Beauvais, a widowed single mother and doctor who hates the occupying Union forces, and Zachary Cooper, a Union provost marshal, together. After witnessing the death of her old friend, Dr. Henri Santerre, Emmanuelle questions whether the arrow that killed him had really been meant for her. Her fear intensifies when other friends, also associated with the hospital, are murdered. Cooper initially suspects the self-possessed Emmanuelle of the crimes, but when a serious attempt is made on her life, Cooper's investigation takes him from the city's crowded docks to the homes of old aristocrats and even into a swamp to question a man renowned as a seer and an herbalist. The attraction between Cooper and Emmanuelle intensifies as they uncover a twisted web of passion and betrayal spun by those she trusts most. Proctor is in top form here. A gripping plot, arresting characters and a thoroughly researched setting combine to make this a remarkable read. (June 2)
