Publisher's Synopsis
Deep in the heart of Wiltshire, John Mannering steps into the home of an old lady who wishes him to value her paintings. He has no idea that he is also walking into a hornet's nest of blackmail, arson, and murder. Under the watchful eyes of masterpieces, the Baron must battle for the truth. Who was blackmailing whom? Why were people out to kill him? What is the girl, Joanna, hiding?
Master crime fiction writer John Creasey's near-600 titles have sold more than 80 million copies in over 25 languages under both his own name and multiple pseudonyms. His style varied with each identity and led to him being regarded as a literary phenomena. Amongst the many series written were Gideon of Scotland Yard, The Toff, The Baron, Dr. Palfrey and Inspector West, as JJ Marric, Michael Halliday, Patrick Dawlish, and others.
During his lifetime Creasey enjoyed an ever-increasing reputation both in the UK and overseas, especially the USA. This was further enhanced by constant revision of his works in order to assure the best possible be presented to his audience and also by many awards, not least of which was being honoured twice by the Mystery Writer's of America, latterly as Grand Master.
