After being ejected from Miss Bodycote's Female Academy in Canada, 12-year-old Flavia de Luce is excited to be sailing home to England, but is greeted with unfortunate news: Her father has fallen ill, and a hospital visit will have to wait while he rests. Cooped up at the family manor with her sisters and insufferable cousin underfoot, Flavia agrees to deliver a message to a reclusive wood-carver. Finding the man's body hanging upside down on the back of his bedroom door, Flavia also notes a feline that shows little interest in the disturbing scene. The young detective is energized at the prospect of a new investigation (her eighth, after As Chimney Sweepers Come to Dust), but what awaits her will shake her to the very core.

Mystery fans seeking novels of wit, an immersive English countryside setting, and rich characterizations will be rewarded with this newest entry in the award-winning series."—Library Journal (starred review)