4 stars

Tom Ransome and his family are down and out. He lost his job at the auctioneers and his new employer was murdered. After irregularities were found in the books, Tom can’t even get his investment back and the business is closed. Forced to sell the house, they are in dire straits.

He meets an old buddy in the pub one afternoon. Jeremy Eskdale’s wife has a home that is vacant. They would let the Ransome’s live there for a pittance.

What follows is the story of two friends and their families. The latter half of the book is filled with suspense and moves right along at a quick pace. It is a great tale of how friendship can go horribly wrong.

This is a very well written and plotted book. I will look into more of Ms. Smith’s novels.

Thanks to Netgalley and Endeavour Press for forwarding to me a copy of this good book.