Following a high-society masquerade, the sudden disappearance of Leila Guest and the discovery of her blood-stained, bullet-ridden costume initiates a complex investigation. Leila Guest, the wife of a retired university vice chancellor, vanishes without a trace, leaving behind only a macabre garment that suggests a violent end. The narrative follows the subsequent inquiry into her social circle and the university environment, where hidden tensions and long-standing secrets threaten to surface. The story utilizes a traditional mystery framework, focusing on the logical deduction of clues and the interrogation of suspects within a confined academic setting.

Readers often note the author's ability to construct intricate puzzles within the quiet confines of university life. Discussion frequently centers on the methodical pacing that prioritizes character observation over high-octane action sequences. Critics highlight the effective use of domestic settings to mask darker criminal intentions, creating a contrast between the polite facade of the characters and the reality of the crime. Many readers appreciate the focus on logical deduction, which remains a hallmark of the author's style in this classic mystery.