This was a thoroughly interesting mystery, with an added social component of class divisions, the distrust (and even hatred) of foreigners, and political intricacies. Add in a raging winter storm, an almost escape room scenario, and a ruined Christmas celebration, and you have the makings of a riveting mystery. It was more profound and complex than I expected it to be, which made it more memorable. I liked the writing style, and I really enjoyed Dr. Bottwink, whose outsider perspective made him much more astute a "detective" than Rogers, the Scotland Yard security detail for Sir Julian.

I'm intrigued by this novel and will read more by Hare.