Veronica Northcott decides to extend her summer stay at the Bay Hotel—and someone makes certain she will never leave.
The celebrated children's author has gathered her children and professional circle on the Cornish coast for an anniversary dinner. When her artist son asks to paint an honest portrait of her, Veronica cancels her departure and accepts. It is a hopeful gesture from a woman accustomed to arranging other people's lives. Hours later, she is found murdered.
Hotel owner Edmund Trewin and his niece Katherine know that affection can hide resentment as neatly as good manners hide a quarrel. With the socially astute Bea Harcourt helping them, they must untangle family grievances, professional loyalties and managed appearances. Everyone had reason to value Veronica. Several had reason to fear what she intended to change.
