Book excerpt: The first Auguste Didier mystery. During a shooting party at Stockbery Towers, the steward Greeves is found dead - apparently poisoned whilst partaking of his habitual savoury and brandy alone in Pug's Parlour. The local police constable immediately suspects master chef Auguste Didier of the murder - and, hurt as much by the aspersions cast on his cuisine as by the suggestion that he is a poisoner, Auguste is forced to turn detective in order to prove his innocence. Greeves had not been the most popular figure below stairs - and Auguste quickly uncovers a multitude of motives amongst the staff, whilst also finding the time to concoct the most exquisite and delectable dishes for the house party. The noble family and guests upstairs find this murder in Pug's Parlour most amusing - until one of them is killed . . .