When two gunshots echo through the air near the luxurious Kennington Stresa hotel on the shores of Lake Maggiore in the Italian lakes region, one bullet strikes a passing Alfa Romeo, and the other kills a notorious Italian film star. Elspeth Duff, the sharp-witted security advisor, is summoned to untangle the mystery before the hotel's reputation is tarnished. As she navigates a labyrinth of secrets involving an alluring film goddess, an Italian duchess, and a desperate ex-minister of the Italian government, Elspeth must also contend with the brewing storm on the lake. Amidst the chaos, her professional poise is tested, and the undercurrents of her unresolved feelings for Sir Richard Munro add to the tension.

Fans of cozy mysteries, international intrigue, and strong female sleuths will find Elspeth's adventures captivating and thoroughly engaging.