When a local woman is found dead in a Cornish village, Superintendent Roderick Alleyn must navigate a web of greed and religious fervor to identify a killer. The narrative follows Alleyn as he investigates the suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of Miss Elspeth Cost, a shopkeeper whose livelihood was threatened by the new landowner, Miss Emily Pride. The investigation is complicated by the village's obsession with the supposedly miraculous waters of Pixie Falls, which draw crowds and profit to the area. Alleyn must sift through the motives of various villagers and visitors to uncover the truth behind the murder, all while contending with the social tensions of a community built on a lucrative, if questionable, trade.

This work is widely regarded as a quintessential example of the Golden Age style of detective fiction, showcasing the author's skill in blending social satire with a traditional murder mystery. Readers often appreciate the atmospheric Cornish setting and the sharp characterizations that define the village of Portcarrow. The narrative is noted for its steady pacing and the methodical, intellectual approach of Superintendent Roderick Alleyn as he disentangles the complex motivations of the suspects. The book remains a staple for those who enjoy classic British crime novels that prioritize wit and intricate plotting over visceral action.