This is the fourth in a well-written mystery series by British author Susan Hill. The series is apparently quite popular in England, but relatively unknown here in the US. That's truly unfortunate, because the series is several cuts above the run-of-the-mill mysteries so often seen. Well-plotted, with lots of twists, turns and red herrings, the characterization is also that of a true writer. If you haven't yet discovered the Simon Serrailler mysteries, I'd encourage you to start with the first of them, "The Various Haunts of Men." The character development is stellar, and best enjoyed in order.