At Pendlebury Old, a picturesque country house hotel, Inspector Mallett finds himself wrapped up in a sinister puzzle. What begins as a serene getaway quickly spirals into a web of mystery when a guest is discovered dead. The idyllic façade of the hotel crumbles, revealing secrets lurking within its walls. Mallett's sharp instincts and keen eye for detail are put to the test as he navigates a cast of intriguing characters, each with their own motives.
As the investigation unfolds, the tension mounts. Mallett uncovers truths that challenge his perceptions and lead him to question everything he thought he knew about the people around him. With a mix of suspense and wit, Cyril Hare crafts a tale that keeps readers guessing, showcasing Mallett’s brilliance in unraveling the most baffling of mysteries.