The tinker and the deceased's spouse Hugh report her stabbing death to the police. Tammy is distraught over the woman's death and worries what will happen to her and he father, especially since evidence points towards Hugh. Tammy's teacher asks her friend Meredith to uncover the truth behind the slaying. Meredith and Alan travel down numerous paths in search of that elusive truth. The twelfth Mitchell and Markby mystery remarkably retains its freshness due to the twists to their relationship.
Readers obtain a glimpse of life in a small British village through the eyes of the lead characters.
Alan and Meredith narrate the story line. That method works as it provides insight into what each one is thinking about their relationship as well as the case. The police investigation is entertaining especially the behind the scenes activities of an aid.