A seemingly routine village flower show descends into chaos when a missing fortuneteller is discovered murdered under impossible circumstances. Detective Inspector Sloan and his assistant, Detective Constable Crosby, must navigate the insular social dynamics of the local community to uncover the truth. Faced with a crime that appears to lack motive, means, and opportunity, the investigators rely on methodical questioning and observation. The narrative unfolds through a traditional third-person perspective that emphasizes the procedural rigor of the British police force.

This work is recognized as a quintessential example of the British village mystery, noted for its adherence to the classic puzzle-oriented structure. The narrative style reflects the author's commitment to traditional detective tropes while maintaining a distinct focus on the quirks of small-town inhabitants. Readers often highlight the interplay between the seasoned Inspector Sloan and the younger Constable Crosby as a primary source of the book's charm. The mystery is constructed to challenge the reader's ability to connect disparate facts, favoring intellectual engagement over high-octane action sequences.