The man was quiet, determined, curious even - and always in his spot across the street from her home. Sometimes he followed her when she left town on lectures or other scholarly occasions. Sometimes not. What obsession did he harbor for the intelligent, kind, sensible Marion Manning? Only her housekeeper/companion, Joyo, a flamboyant contrast to her friend, may have a clue to the mystery. Murder brings Scotland Yard Inspector John Coffin into the picture and into a horrifying clash of past and present... and a murderer whose double life threatens to claim many more victims.