Murders circle around Burgundy where Pel has just been promoted to Chief Inspector, starting with the case of a woman whose body is found on the beach one morning. A death that appeared to be suicide at first glance turns out to have plenty of suspects, each with their own particular motive.
Pel's personal life is going far from smoothly, as he discovers himself to be the target of a letter-bomb sent by an old enemy - aside from the obvious danger, this is yet another obstacle to his plans to marry Madame Faivre-Perret. Can Pel keep his life, his love and his career by solving the murder mysteries, and keeping the predators at bay?
Moody, sharp-tongued and worrying constantly about his health, Inspector Pel ensures that no case goes unsolved, in these mordantly witty French mysteries.