It is summer in the picturesque village of Castlefield. It is a time for eating ice creams in the shade, summer dresses, turning red as a lobster after five seconds outside, and murder. The only homicidal maniac in the village is supposed to be Pandora the chicken, but she has competition.
After Maggie Matthews organises readings from fellow mystery authors during the Summer Festival, one ends up with a fountain pen in his chest. There are plenty of suspects and clues, but not enough evidence. Maggie is eager to join forces with Alistair, the local detective, so she can spend time with him. She'll also have the help of her favourite fictional detective, but will it be enough to catch a killer who enjoys playing games?