‘This is really a very jolly book, with sound plot ... good characterisation, a number of thrills, and everything handsome about it.’ – Dorothy L. Sayers

Sir Robert Boniface, the industrial and financial tycoon – and stalwart of the British Cabinet – has been found shot dead in his blue limousine on a warm Friday evening in the Vale of Health, Hampstead Heath. Nearby, a rejected portrait of Sir Robert is found riddled with bullets in the studio of the now-missing artist Matt Caldwell. Called to the scene, Inspector Beckett of Scotland Yard suspects murder. By the time Superintendent Mooney joins the case the suspects have tripled and the mystery continues to spiral.

First published in 1934 and now extremely rare, this closely observed and stylish study of both character and motive whisks the reader from the Stock Exchange to Westminster as it hurtles towards its feverish denouement under the bells of the capital’s most famous clock. Delving into the psychology of murder, Magarshack’s novel explores the struggle between immense power and corruption, and what it means to be crooked.

Publication date: 10/11/2023