Do you love a classic English whodunit? Then meet your favourite new gentleman sleuth: whip-smart Oxford don, Dr Patrick Grant.

He loves rhyming verse, witty banter, strong coffee and solving impossible mysteries from history. Now he must pit his wits against a true-life killer.

Patrick’s night is not going to plan. He should be sitting in one of London’s top theatres — his dear friend Liz at his side — watching another friend, Sam Irwin, tread the boards. Had Liz not stood him up!

Patrick takes a stroll beside the Thames, under the twinkly lights of Festival Hall. He gazes out over the water. Only to spot something truly shocking, bobbing on the tide . . . a dead body.

And not just any dead body — it’s his actor friend Sam!

It’s no secret Sam was down on his luck, cast for death from the very start. Everyone says he chose to drown his sorrows. But Patrick can’t believe that’s true.

The Sam he knew had everything to live for. Not least, a plum role in Stratford-Upon-Avon.

Patrick can quote the Bard with the best of them. But he’ll have to improvise to solve this mystery — and fast.

Before the ruthless killer returns for a final act . . .

**A CWA Cartier Diamond Dagger winner for outstanding lifetime achievement!**

A masterclass in misdirection, brimming with village intrigue and sly humour, this page-turning mystery is perfect for fans of Faith Martin, Agatha Christie, Veronica Heley, the Reverend Richard Coles and Clare Chase.