The Bloody Wood

A first-rate mystery featuring the capable skills of the well-read, retired police detective Sir John Appleby in the company of his wife, Lady Judith
Sir John Appleby and his wife Judith are among the guests at the great country estate of Charne, where Grace and Charles Martineau have gathered together close friends and relatives for a holiday. Sadly, the occasion is overshadowed by the illness of the hostess. Appleby's natural curiosity uncovers tension between members of this seemingly innocuous house party, but when death strikes, by fire and water, it is most unnatural. Heirs of the estate are implicated, as well as a trusted servant and the family doctor. To aid the local police, Sir John steps in and, with the help of his wife, sorts out the tangled motives with his customary ingenuity.