Hogmanay at Fives Castle promises to be a lively affair. The Earl of Strathmerrick has gathered family, friends and political allies at his great Scottish home to see in the start of 1928, while his daughter Lady Gertrude has invited a few friends of her own, including Angela Marchmont.
But beneath the gaiety of the house-party, something far more serious is taking place. The Foreign Secretary, the American Ambassador and the Head of British Intelligence are awaiting the arrival of a foreign scientist carrying secrets of international importance. It's a matter of some delicacy, and they're anxious to keep it strictly confidential.
As the celebrations get underway, however, Angela senses a growing disquiet within the castle. The expected guest fails to appear, the snow falls ever more heavily, and the festivities take a sinister turn when a game of sardines leads to the discovery of a dead body.
Cut off from the outside world by a blizzard, the guests at Fives Castle soon realize that one of their number is both a spy and a murderer, and before long suspicion falls upon Angela herself...
A classic 1920s mystery, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Dorothy L. Sayers and traditional British whodunits.