The sudden death of Guy Brouard shocks the inhabitants of the island of Guernsey, whose generous patron and benefactor Brouard was for many years. A young American woman, China River, who was staying at Bruar's house, is accused of murder. Her brother seeks help from the only person he knows in England - Deborah St. James, the wife of a famous forensic expert. Horrified to learn that her old friend has been arrested, Deborah persuades her husband Simon to go with her to the island to prevent a miscarriage of justice and find the real criminal. Elizabeth George is an outstanding master of the detective novel. Her work has won recognition from readers all over the world, including in Russia. Her books are published in millions of copies, become the basis for television films, and receive prestigious literary awards.