In False Scent, by Ngaio Marsh, a West End stage actress is murdered during her 50th birthday party. The actress, Mary Bellamy, is a fading star, but still a star to be reckoned with. At the party, someone uses a deadly insect spray on Mary instead of on the azaleas. The suspects are playing the part of mourners.

Inspector Roderick Alleyn investigates the murder. The New York Times described the book as "delightfully witty and vivid".