Pragmatic, even-tempered Violet Manville is obliged to take over her aunt's advice column when Adelia reveals that she's secretly Miss Hermione, "the most celebrated agony aunt in the Empire," and is going on holiday. Responding to a letter from a woman named Ivy who fears that she's in mortal danger, Violet visits Ivy's village and finds that she's too late—Ivy recently took a fatal tumble off a bridge. Suspecting foul play, Violet is drawn into a mystery involving her flighty sister Sephora and a devilishly alluring American who may not be what he appears. Nimbly balancing coziness and suspense, this Dear Miss Hermione mystery is a delight.