12 Nov 2025

Footsteps in the Dark by Georgette Heyer

Published: 1932 | Series: Standalone

A brother and sister inherit a country house built on the foundations of an ancient abbey, and soon discover it harbours a mysterious and violent past. Is the house merely haunted, or is a murderer at work?

About Georgette Heyer

Georgette Heyer (1902–1974) is best known today for her bestselling historical fiction, especially the 26 novels she wrote set during the Regency period. However, she also wrote a dozen detective novels, beginning in 1932, and a number of crime short stories. Her recurring detective characters are Superintendent Hannasyde and Sergeant (later Chief Inspector) Hemingway.

The Story (spoiler free)

Siblings Peter, Celia and Margaret have recently inherited the dilapidated Priory from a deceased uncle. Despite the fact that the locals won't set foot in the place, they decide to move in and use it as a holiday home. The lack of modern conveniences like plumbing and electricity don't put them off, but the rumour that a ghostly monk is seen patrolling the grounds unsettles them a little... Until a murder takes place, and suddenly the ghosts feel all too real.

What I've said about it on Shedunnit
Footsteps in the Dark was mentioned in both the Spooky Sleuthing (2023) and Halloween (2025) episodes because of Heyer's use of supernatural plot points and the suggestion of haunting — it contains ghosts, secret passages and flickering lights.