Used paperback in good condition. Cover showing heavy wear along spine. Pages in good condition with normal ageing discolouration. 470 pages. Published by Headline Books, 1992. ISBN 0747237557.

The most imposing invitation on the mantelpiece was the one from Buckingham Palace.

Three women are anticipating the royal Garden Party with varying degrees of pleasure and apprehension.

For Jackie, social editor of Society magazine, it is just one of a series of glittering events that she must cover for her glamour-hungry readers. Newly divorced, Jackie enjoys the hectic whirl of her career, but hopes to find a more settled lifestyle.

For Elfrieda, ex-Swedish au pair and current Lady Witley of Vauxhall, the invitation represents one further rung up the social ladder. Elfrieda is so desperate to be accepted, she will do anything to make her mark. It is a determination that is to have dangerous consequences.

As Lady in Waiting to the Queen, Celia is 'on duty', charged with the responsibility of helping ensure all the arrangements go smoothly. Celia values the position of confidence she enjoys at the Palace, and is careful to do nothing to jeopardise it.

But this is one Garden Party that turns out to hold some nasty shocks for the guests. An unscrupulous man is scheming ruthlessly for his own advancement. And when he crosses swords with Jackie, Celia and Elfrieda, he vows he will get his revenge, whatever it takes.