When the old country doctor of Newton-upon-Sea passed away, he left his daughter Alexandra the secrets of his trade. Now, the village depends on its lady-doctor Gladstone for its births, deaths, and all the inconveniences inbetween.

At a small gathering at Dunsford Hall, every guest seems in possession of a title, land-and a secret vendetta against the host. And so, when their "dear Eddie" is found murdered in his own bed, the lords and ladies point to a helpless servant and flee the scene. But Dr. Alexandra Gladstone finds evidence in her autopsy suggesting otherwise. And the not-so-noble reactions to her inquiries have the good doctor wondering if she hasn't struck a nerve.