It seems since Van Helsing's death, Europe is just not a comfortable place for a vampire to be, so Draculiya decides to immigrate to Canada. However, along the way the ship sinks, and with a change of identity and plans, New York seems as good a place as any for a new start. But we soon find Echo Van Helsing and her brother Matthew have followed to avenge their father's death.

Jumping to the present, an archaeological dig prior to a big building project turns up a body in Minetta Lane. Detective Max Slatterly and archaeologist Carrie Norton are expected to solve the case and get the site cleared so the building can go up. They are also to avoid any public scandal or political entanglements.

The book continues, alternating between 1849 and the present as all parties move to solve their respective mysteries. There are enough twists and turns in the plot, along with some fascinating historical information about New York and its surrounding area, to entertain and inform the reader. While some of the characters were a bit thin, the city was so fascinating that it covered for any lack in the people who populate the pages. On the other hand, Carrie and Slatterly did have some depth and carried a lot of the present-day scenes.

Altogether a story well told. The mystery is interesting enough to hold the two story lines together in a satisfying whole. It's an interesting addition to the mystery/vampire subgenre, with enough quirks to stand out.