A teenage girl accuses two women of beating and imprisoning her: a classic crime novel from the 1940s, inspired by a true story.
Surrey, 1948. Inspector Grant is dispatched by Scotland Yard to Milford to assist the local police in unraveling a disturbing case of alleged kidnapping. Marion Sharpe and her mother stand accused of having abducted and beaten Betty Kane, a 16-year-old war orphan. To defend themselves, the Sharpes enlist the help of lawyer Robert Blair, who, although usually unacquainted with criminal cases, agrees to represent them. His involvement soon causes tension with the police as the investigation and trial unfold.
With her open expression, composed demeanor, and the freshness of her sixteen years, Betty appears to be the very picture of an innocent, sympathetic teenager. No jury in the world would think to question her horrifying accusations; no newspaper would hesitate to put her photo on the front page.
And yet, Robert Blair is convinced he is dealing with a malicious little liar. But how to prove it? He has examined every possible lead without uncovering a single piece of evidence. Still, there must be a crack in this carefully constructed armor of lies. The challenge is to find it—before the trial begins.