Publisher's Synopsis
In the aftermath of the First World War, the Cumbrian village of Waterbeck celebrates the return of all its young men. But not all those who fought returned intact. Mercy Appleby's husband is confined to an psychiatric asylum, and so she avoids the celebrations. Enterprising Frank Holland has always burned a candle for Mercy and convinces her to attend the celebrations at Waterbeck Hall. But when Joan Freeman is found murdered amidst the revelry, suspicion falls on several of the men. As the investigation unfolds, secrets are revealed, including Frank's affair with Joan. But when a new suspect emerges, Mercy finds herself caught up in a dangerous game of cat and mouse. Will she be able to clear the innocent and bring the true killer to justice, or will she become the next victim?