This book is the 6th installment of Potzsch's "Hangman's Daughter" series and he continues to knock it out of the park. They're about the Kuisl family, who have been executioners for generations, in 17th century Bavara. They are Potzsch's real life ancestors, as well as the inspiration for the novels. Executioner was a dishonorable profession but also a necessary one, creating a precarious position in society. The author does an outstanding job of creating time and place. Every book has intrigue, adventure, humor and the engaging characters that are the Kuisls, a close-knit, rough-hewn bunch that frequently find themselves entwined in the mysterious and shady undertakings of others, while battling prejudice and public opinion in an unenlightened time. In this latest book, Jakob, the hangman, is investigating two murders with his son-in-law, Simon. Jakob's eldest daughter uncovers a secret smuggling operation while harboring a secret of her own and his younger daughter is facing charges of witchcraft. Each book can be enjoyed on its own, but if you can, start at the beginning with "The Hangman's Daughter" to get the most out of the development of the characters.