A celebratory gathering at a remote Welsh estate turns fatal when the host is discovered dead, forcing the guests to confront their own secrets. The protagonist and the other attendees, a collection of eccentric poets and intellectuals, find themselves trapped by the sudden death of their host. As they attempt to identify the killer among them, they must navigate the claustrophobic social dynamics of the estate and the mounting suspicion that one of their own is responsible. The narrative framework utilizes a classic locked-room mystery structure, emphasizing the interplay between the characters' conflicting personalities and the physical isolation of the setting.

Readers frequently highlight the book's unique origin as a collaborative effort between Dylan Thomas and John J. Davenport, which lends the prose a distinct, playful tone. Discussion often centers on the satirical elements, as the authors lampoon the literary figures and social circles of their time with sharp precision. Critics note that while the mystery itself follows established genre conventions, the characterizations are the primary draw for those interested in the authors' specific voices. The pacing is generally described as brisk, allowing the humor and the tension to coexist effectively throughout the investigation. Many readers appreciate the historical context provided by the authors' real-life associations, which adds an extra layer of intrigue to the reading experience.