Judge Elisabeth Massot's last investigation concerns Paul Barne, a passionate bird-watcher, whose peaceful life on his estate in the South of France has been troubled by the dealings of various hostile individuals. Worse, a forest fire nearly destroys his house. Judge Massot incites Paul to lodge a complaint but Paul refuses to do it. Why? Another problem is that Paul Barne is Elisabeth's childhood friend. In these conditions, isn't she judge...and jury?
—Guy Bellinger