A charity piano recital in a quiet village turns into a crime scene when a fatal gunshot rings out during a performance. The victim, a spiteful spinster named Idris Campanula, leaves behind a cast of suspects who all possessed motives to silence her. Inspector Roderick Alleyn arrives to navigate the social tensions of the village, uncovering a web of secrets and the possibility that the killer may have targeted the wrong person. The narrative follows a traditional investigative framework, focusing on the meticulous gathering of clues and the interrogation of a closed circle of suspects.

This work is widely regarded as a quintessential example of the Golden Age detective novel, praised for its clever plotting and sharp character observations. Readers often highlight the author's ability to balance a light, satirical tone with the grim reality of a murder investigation. The inclusion of Inspector Alleyn provides a steady, intellectual anchor that allows the complex social dynamics of the village to unfold naturally. The narrative structure is frequently cited for its precision, ensuring that every clue and character interaction serves the final revelation. It remains a staple for those who appreciate the methodical, puzzle-oriented approach to the mystery genre.