The discovery of a murdered divorcee, Venetia Franklin, forces Inspector Kelsey and Detective Lambert to navigate a web of financial desperation and hidden personal entanglements. The investigators must systematically dismantle the alibis of the victim's ex-husband, his new spouse, and a local bank manager, all of whom possess clear motives for the crime. As the investigation progresses, the narrative maintains a strict adherence to the detectives' perspective, ensuring the reader remains as informed as the police. The story unfolds through a methodical, step-by-step examination of evidence, where every lead is scrutinized for inconsistencies and hidden truths.

This work is recognized as a classic example of the British procedural, noted for its disciplined adherence to the mechanics of police investigation. The narrative style is often compared to a jigsaw puzzle, where the satisfaction lies in the gradual assembly of disparate clues rather than high-octane action. Readers and critics have historically appreciated the thoroughness of Inspector Kelsey, whose methodical approach provides a grounded, realistic framework for the mystery. The book remains a staple for those who prefer cerebral, puzzle-oriented crime fiction that prioritizes logical progression over sensationalism.