The Midnight Hour

Set against the backdrop of 1965 Brighton, this historical mystery begins with the suspicious death of Bert Billington. The retired theater manager is found lifeless in his home, and an autopsy soon confirms he was poisoned. The local authorities immediately focus their attention on his wife, the flamboyant former stage star Verity Malone.

Unwilling to accept the blame, Verity hires the private investigation team of Emma Holmes and Sam Collins. Their independent inquiry creates immediate friction with the official police investigation, especially since the constabulary is led by Emma's husband, Superintendent Edgar Stephens. As the two women delve into the victim's history, they uncover a dangerous pattern suggesting the murderer is systematically targeting veterans of the variety theater circuit.

In the sixth installment of the Brighton Mysteries, Elly Griffiths weaves a complex narrative centered around the fading world of live entertainment. The novel continues to develop the intricate relationships between the investigators and the local police, all connected through their shared history with the illusionist Max Mephisto.