(, New edition)

While hospitalized after being knocked over by a car, ex-Inspector John Reynolds meets Mrs Sparks, who is recovering from a fall down a mine shaft. But what interests Reynolds most, is what was found at the bottom of the mine - a human skeleton and a wedding ring bearing Mr Sparks' initials.

(, New edition)

Strange happenings threaten the idyllic existence of a Cornish village. The inhabitants believe that ex-Inspector Reynold's mystery novels have inspired a criminal. Even Sergeant Derrymore makes it clear that Reynold's assistance is not required in the investigation. Then the real trouble begins.