The sudden death of a renowned Shakespearean scholar, initially ruled a suicide, triggers a complex investigation into the disappearance of a priceless literary artifact. Sir John Appleby arrives at the residence of the deceased, Lewis Packford, to find a collection of academics and bibliophiles whose professional and personal interests intersect with the missing document. The narrative follows Appleby as he navigates the social tensions of the household, where the presence of two secret wives adds layers of domestic intrigue to the professional mystery. The investigation proceeds through a series of interviews and observations, revealing hidden motives among the guests who were present at the time of the incident.

Readers frequently highlight the author's ability to blend erudite literary references with the traditional mechanics of a detective mystery. Discussion often centers on the intricate plotting and the specific, often eccentric, nature of the suspects gathered in the house. Critics note that the prose maintains a sophisticated tone, which aligns with the academic environment depicted in the story. The balance between the intellectual puzzle of the missing book and the personal drama of the scholar's secret life provides a steady momentum for the reader. Many appreciate the way the narrative avoids common tropes by focusing on the specific motivations of bibliophiles and scholars.