Frances Wynn, the American-born Countess of Harleigh, enjoys more freedom as a widow than she did as a wife. After an obligatory yr spent mourning her philandering hubby, Reggie, she puts apart her drab black gowns, departing the countryside and her money-grubbing in-laws behind. With her youthful daughter in tow, Frances rents a home in Belgravia and prepares to welcome her sister, Lily, arriving from New York-for her 1st London season.

No sooner has Frances begun her new life than the in regards to a Lady’s Guide to Etiquette and Murder ghosts of her old one make an unwelcome appearance. The Metropolitan law enforcement receive an anonymous letter implicating Frances in her husband’s death. Frances assures Inspector Delaney of her innocence, but she’s also willing to maintain him from learning the scandalous situations of Reggie’s demise. As fate could have it, her dashing fresh neighbor, George Hazelton, is usually one of only two other folks aware of the entire story.

While busy with public engagements in Lily’s behalf, and being concerned if Reggie actually was murdered, Frances learns of mysterious burglaries plaguing London’s elite. The investigation brings death to her doorstep, and Frances rallies her wits, a group of gossips, as well as the ever-chivalrous Mr. Hazelton to uncover the truth.