I enjoyed reading this whodunnit set in 1959 in California. It is packed with racial tension, which is portrayed through Ruby who is the domestic help of the white family where a crime had taken place. The descriptions are very colourful and vivid in this book . The beautiful bright kitchen where the sun shines through the window is clear in my mind. Then there is the bloodstain which stands out. Although is it mainly a crime mystery novel , race and gender are important themes throughout. The role of the woman and how in this middle class neighbourhood is expected to stay at home looking after her husband and children features very prominently. I enjoyed the pace of the novel and enjoyed how it all unfolded. My favourite character is Ruby and her determination to do the right thing even though everything is against her just because of the colour of her skin. A really enjoyable read and well recommended.