Elliot Freed owns an old-time movie theater and shows a classic comedy followed by a contemporary one every night. When he gets a chance to meet his comedy idols, the team of Harry Lillis and Les Townes, now in their eighties, he jumps at it—and maybe he shouldn't. The two men are still harboring grudges from a half-century ago, and include Elliot in their intrigues. Then one of them murders the other, and Elliot has to wonder if he helped cause the death of one of his heroes.

The second Comedy Tonight mystery blends laughs and intrigue, but with heart. Bestselling author Lee Child said the series is "Funny? Of course—but also wise, suspenseful, and a genuine pleasure to read."