Synopsis
Who’d break in and leave the house untouched?- When Michael and Hilda return from holiday to find two police officers awaiting them, a chaotic series of events ensues. The police have had an anonymous tip-off about child pornography being stored on Michael‘s computer. It’s easy to prove his innocence, but who would do such a thing and why? At the same time it becomes clear that someone was living in the cottage while they were away, and may still be returning. Soon, they decide to take action of their own, with devastating consequences . . .
Publishers Weekly
On returning from a Swiss holiday, Michael McGinnis and Hilda Gilmour are surprised to find a police sergeant and a constable waiting for them at their East Lothian cottage in this pedestrian effort from Scottish veteran Hammond. The sergeant explains that the police received an anonymous tip about child pornography on Michael's computer the day before. The charge proves false, but Michael and Hilda soon discover signs that their house has been occupied in their absence. Appearing in a cameo, Det. Chief Insp. Honoria Potterton-Phipps, the protagonist of one of the author's series (Loving Memory, etc.), is interested in their unknown guest, as are local thugs who make their own unannounced visit. The couple find themselves drawn into a world of illegal gambling, computer fraud, violence, and deceit. An extended joke perpetrated on Hilda's snobbish, prudish older sister adds a welcome dash of humor. (May)