The Knocker on Death's Door Author:Ellis Peters The door was of solid oak, and legend had it that sinners who seized the knocker burned their hands on the cold iron, as if it had been red-hot. The door lay dormant in a wine-cellar until, quite recently, it was moved to its alleged rightful place in the south porch of a church in a quiet English village. Great ceremony attended its dedication... more ».
But perhaps it shouldn't have been disturbed, for now it seemed to attract death.
Its latest victim was a photographer who had gone to examine it out of curiosity. He was found with his skull crushed by a heavy stone. Another inquirer had a narrow escape from death when he went to investigate the door after dark.
The alarmed villagers summon the famous Chief Inspector George Felse, who begins to uncover some surprising truths concerning not only the legend but the prominent people of the village. As he delves further, he soon confronts the lethal attentions of those who did not wish to be disturbed.
Following the success of Mourning Raga, House of Green Turf, and other stories that have been widely read and praised, The Knocker on Death's Door is an exciting addition to the distinguished and growing reputation of Ellis Peters.« less