When a world-famous soprano's retreat to a secluded New Zealand mansion turns fatal, Chief Superintendent Alleyn must identify a killer trapped among the guests by a sudden, violent storm. Alleyn and his wife find their peaceful respite interrupted by a calculated murder that forces the detective to navigate a confined social circle where every guest harbors secrets. The narrative follows a classic closed-circle mystery structure, utilizing the physical isolation of the island to heighten the tension between the suspects. Alleyn relies on his methodical observation and logical deduction to dismantle the alibis of the elite group, all while the elements prevent any outside assistance from reaching the scene.

As one of the final entries in the long-running Roderick Alleyn series, this novel is often noted for its polished execution of the classic detective format. Readers frequently highlight the atmospheric setting of the New Zealand lake as a standout feature that effectively traps the characters and intensifies the investigation. The prose reflects the author's signature wit and attention to the nuances of social interaction, which remain consistent with her earlier works. The mystery is characterized by its traditional pacing and reliance on intellectual deduction rather than physical action, appealing to those who appreciate the conventions of the Golden Age of detective fiction.