The ending did fall a bit flat. Powell competently figures out who the killer must be, but his confrontation with the killer in a remote area does not speak well for his common sense. Surely, a man who has been a policeman for many years should know better than that. His subsequent rescue was only one small step short of divine intervention. Graham Thomas also provides an enchanting description of the Yorkshire countryside and the weather that is typical of the region.
Fog plays an important role in the plot, providing alibis for some and obscurity for others.
The real flavor of British country life comes through loud and clear.