In ''At the Villa Rose'' we meet French Inspector Gabriel Hanaud for the first time.

Hanaud is a towering figure in the history of genre mystery fiction as he is the obvious inspiration for Hercule Poirot. Whilst on holiday in Aix-les-Bains Inspector Hanaud is approached by Harry Wethermill to help investigate the murder of wealthy Madame Dauvray. Wethermill is in love with the prime suspect, Celia Harland. His unshaking faith in Harland moves inspector Hanaud to the case. Intrigue and mystery ensue. One of the best, most artistic, most engrossing detective stories ever written.—''The British Weekly''