Antiques dealer Monaghan Wilkes has made many enemies in the village of Sixpenny Cross and its surroundings. When he is found dead beside the pond in a local meadow, no one is surprised. Popular opinion targets Monaghan's long-suffering business partner, Colin Jones, as the murderer. But retiree Winnie Hatherall, a sprightly woman who has lived in the village all her life, is unconvinced. Detective Inspector Anthony Wallace has an unexpected history with Winnie. He does not like her poking her nose into his case, a sentiment she reciprocates, but he cannot ignore her exceptional talent for knowing what lies behind her neighbours' lace curtains. The gentle pace of village life is shattered as Winnie reveals one secret after another. Will her investigation reveal the murderer, or will it lead her into the path of potential danger, making her the next victim?