Its clear to most members of Midsomer Worthys Writers Circle that asking bestselling author Max Jennings to talk to them is a little ambitious. Less clear are the reasons for secretary Gerald Hadleighs fierce objections to seeing the man -- a face from his past -- again. Astonishingly Jennings accepts the invitation but before the night is out Gerald is dead. Summoned to investigate Chief Inspector Barnaby finds that Geralds life is as much of a mystery to his neighbours as his violent death. The key is surely their illustrious guest speaker -- but where is he now?