This is an anthology of short stories and longer novellas. The two long novellas stand out : L'homme blessé and Le quatrième secret. The first one is a telling tale of innocence and what hides behind a pretty, young face and the second is a wonderful, wonderful piece of how Catarella is just one fantastic character that even if he is somewhat original some might say even odd and slighty autistic. The whole Montalbano and Catarella relationship is one of father and son. Protective and guiding even if the younger man is at times just a tad annoying. The short stories were uneven hence the three stars instead of 4. The short story that gives the book its titled is a punch in the face one. Gives you a chill in back, reminding you how humans can be cruel.