AN ACT OF VILLAINY

A shocking murder brings back bitter memories for an amateur detective.

Socialites Amory and Milo Ames have had their share of marital problems because Milo’s carefree manner and stunning good looks draw women like flies to honey. Luckily, their involvement in solving several murders (The Essence of Malice, 2017, etc.) has brought them closer even though Amory’s still insecure. A chance meeting with Gerard Holloway, a wealthy friend of Milo's who’s written and produced a new play, involves them in more mysteries. The Price of Victory stars beautiful young actress Flora Bell, rising star Christopher Landon, and famous older actor Balthazar Lebeau. The rumor that Flora is Holloway’s mistress makes Amory worry about Holloway’s wife, Georgina, especially because she thought the Holloways the perfect couple who shared exciting adventures all over the world. Knowing their reputation, Holloway asks the sleuthing duo to investigate the poison-pen letters Flora has received. To Amory’s surprise, the dress rehearsal reveals that Flora’s not only a beauty, but also a very talented actress. After the premiere and the charity gala, Holloway asks Amory to look for Georgina, who he says has been crying, but Amory instead finds Flora, hanged in the theater. Although DI Jones does not show Amory and Milo all his cards, he’s happy to have them do undercover work for him. In addition to the enigmatic Lebeau, the suspects include Landon, who was in love with Flora; Flora’s understudy, who’s all too eager to take over her role; and Flora’s brother, who’s deeply in debt. Amory, who’s especially keen to solve the case, refuses to be deterred by a little danger.

All the usual 1930s charm combined with a mystery whose ending is a stunner.