On a cold winter morning, Wood Creek Academy arrives at Hotel Isolee for what they expect to be a once-in-a-lifetime ski trip. However, it soon becomes evident that the hotel harbours secrets. The situation escalates when a murder occurs, and a severe snowstorm entraps the guests, leaving two young girls, Betty and Dorothy, to take on the role of amateur sleuths.
As they delve into the investigation, they find clues and notes that suggest a complex web of relationships and motives. However, their quest to solve the murder puts their friendship to the test. When the police, led by Inspector Gosling, finally arrive, Betty and Dorothy play a crucial role in unravelling the mystery. Yet, just as they think they understand what happened, doubts emerge. Was it really a murder, or something even more sinister?
The story takes a surprising turn, challenging everything the reader and the protagonists thought they knew. In a tale where appearances can be deceiving, the true suspect might just be the least expected.