The third book in Tanith Lee's compelling series based on alchemy and the elements focuses on the element of earth. This is a haunting journey to a parallel version of 16th century Venice, where fierce territorial rivalry between two noble families unearths a supernatural force beneath the placid surface of the canals and rotting understructure of the city. A series of bizarre events throws the city into a panic while a humble gravedigger is left to clear up - an effort that will also enable him to unearth the secrets of his own shadowy past.