Lord Westfield's Men, the most successful troupe in London and a prime
target for jealousy and resentment, are plagued by a series of practical
jokes. But when one of their actors is murdered, the humour turns
distinctly sour. Appalling events continue: Lawrence Firethorn,
actor-manager, is stalked by a mysterious lady; the sole copy of 'The
Malevolent Comedy'- the company's new play - is stolen, their leading
apprentice is abducted and there is an attempt on the life of Lord
Westfield, their patron. It's soon clear that someone more vicious than
a practical jokester is trying to destroy the troupe and that Nicholas
Bracewell, the resourceful book holder, has an almighty struggle to save
his beloved company from certain demise.