Murder on French Leave — Anne Morice

'What if he'd done it in reverse? Supposing the murder had already been committed by the time you saw him?'

The elegant actress Tessa Crichton is starring in a film to be made in Paris. Her husband Robin (otherwise Detective Inspector Price of Scotland Yard) and her cousin Ellen travel with her but the trip is off to a peculiar start when Tessa's jewel case disappears - and mysteriously turns up again; no jewellery missing. She and Robin go racing at Longchamps, attend an evening of Indian folk music, and get invited to lunch by a chance acquaintance. Their social activities seem perfectly innocent and enjoyable - before murder is committed and Tessa finds herself in possession of some very dangerous knowledge.

Anne Morice's talents for characterisation and humour are well displayed in a classical whodunnit with elements of espionage and kidnapping.

Murder on French Leave was originally published in 1972. This new edition features an introduction and afterword by crime fiction historian Curtis Evans.

'Anne Morice has a gift for creating intelligent, affection-generating characters, set in light and entertaining atmospheres.' Spectator

'Relaxing, polished entertainment of high order.' Daily Telegraph