The violent death at Toynton Grange stuns the community and has alarming consequences for Maggie Hewson. Adam Dalgliesh arrives at the nursing home to visit his old friend Father Baddelely and learns some shocking news.

Adam Dalgliesh continues his discreet enquiries into the tragic events at Toynton Grange and discovers skeletons in the cupboards of Wilfred Anstey and his sister Millicent.

Recriminations begin at Toynton Grange nursing home after the fire in the Black Tower. Maggie Hewson faces awkward questions about her visit to her solicitor. Ursula Hollis has an unnerving encounter as tragedy returns to the troubled community.