<DIV><P>Alec Blume returns to action in this intricate and heart-pounding new novel. With the help of his associate Caterina, Blume is called to the scene of a death connected to a spate of muggings. Though the Carabinieri-military police-are trying to control the investigation, Blume, never one to bow to authority, pursues it his own way.</P><br><P>When it becomes clear that the victim is an art forger, enemies-and hidden treasures-begin to emerge. Relying on old friends and intuitions, Blume hurls himself into the center of the mystery, risking his job, his neck, and just about anyone who trusts him.</P><br><P>Immersed in its old-world setting and written with satisfying detail about inks and signatures and the tools of forgery, this is a riveting novel, with rich characters and a spectacular conclusion.</P><br><P>Conor Fitzgerald is the author of <I>The Dogs of Rome</I>, also featuring Commissario Alec Blume. He has lived in Ireland, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Italy. He has produced a current affairs journal for foreign embassies based in Rome, and founded a successful translation company. He is married with two children and lives in Rome. </P><br><P><B>Praise for <I>The Dogs of Rome</I>:</B> </P><br><P>"A sizzling-hot debut that deftly weaves together corrupt politicians, organized crime, and centuries-oldtradition."-<I>Entertainment Weekly</I></P><br><P>"Conor Fitzgerald is a class act … a real find."-William Boyd</P></DIV>