Wanda McCaddon

In Overture to Death, Ngaio Marsh crafts a classic English village mystery, rich with intrigue, jealousy, and drama. The story centers around a small-town amateur theatrical performance where a seemingly innocent piano rehearsal becomes the setting for a sinister murder. During the play's preparations, tensions run high among the townspeople, particularly between two competitive and meddling middle-aged women, who are vying for attention and control...

Superintendent Alleyn's old school chum, nicknamed the "Boomer," has become the president of the newly emerged African nation of Ng'ombwana, newly emerged in the wake of colonialism. Old school ties being what they are, his friend-making an official visit to London-insists that Alleyn handle his security, rather than Her Majesty's Special Branch. The Special Branch is not best pleased about this, as the Boomer is known to have some very deadly enemies,...