This is a “country” mystery; that is, it’s similar to a country house
mystery except that the venue has expanded to include an entire
neighborhood and all of its colorful characters. A resident is killed
while angling in the stream and is found dead with another man’s catch
at his feet. Inspector Alleyn is called in by the local Lady of the Manor
to trawl through the red herrings.

I’m normally very fond of Marsh’s work, but I’m afraid I thought this one
a bit tedious. Possibly I just wasn’t in the proper mood for it; but on
the other hand, I seem to recall thinking it tedious the first time I
read it as well. The ending surprised me, though, and there are some
memorable characters, so it wasn’t a total loss. I especially liked
Nurse Kettle, who reminds me of a recorder player I know.