In this classic mystery by the author of the Perry Mason series, a California D.A. investigates the case of a murderer who didn't kill.

"The bestselling author of the century . . . a master storyteller." -The New York Times

Young and ambitious, Doug Selby became district attorney hoping to clean up corruption in Madison City and the surrounding county. But even in a farming community like this, evil can have deep roots . . .

Selby knows Ross Blaine isn't the sort to forge a check, but the young man has gambling debts to pay. Rather than throw him in jail, Selby and Sheriff Rex Brandon head to the source of Blaine's debt: a roadhouse known as the Palm Thatch.

That's where the investigation leads Selby to the son of a local bigwig who could make or break his career. Then a body is found in a local motel with a strange note attached. Was it an accident, or was it murder? And who exactly was the victim? With the help of the sheriff and ace-reporter Sylvia Martin, Selby just might get some answers before another mystery-or another body-is added to the mix.