<div> <p>“This is the story of how a middle-aged spinster lost her mind deserted her domestic gods in the city took a furnished house for the summer out of town and found herself involved in one of those mysterious crimes that keep our newspapers and detective agencies happy and prosperous.” So begins <em>The Circular Staircase</em> a book that has been hailed as the best novel by the most important American woman mystery writer of our time.</p> <p>Rachel Innes was relieved when Gertrude and Halsey arrived to keep their dear old aunt company and allow her the courtesy of a decent night’s sleep. Unfortunately the explosive sound of a gunshot the next night shattered Rachel’s hopes. And the body at the foot of the circular staircase ensured many sleepless nights to follow. </p> </div>