In the words of the introduction to the printing of the book at the time, “A gloomy and cavernous old family mansion, peopled with a group of characters who are all obviously concealing something, has always been a favorite setting for a really first-rate murder story.” In the hands of Disney, author of 'Death in the Back Seat' and 'The Strawstack Murders' both already available as Book Revivals Press eKindle productions, this setting provides the opportunity for a mystery for those who like to read their books sitting on the very edge of their chairs.”
“The story… opens with the summoning of the Hieronomo clan for one last reunion at the ancestral seat in Maryland before a hotel corporation takes over the property. Those who know old Aunt Amanda realize that she has not assembled the family for nothing. A deep mystery has surrounded the place ever since the founder of the dynasty, a Civil War hero, used it to harbor runaway slaves. His violent death exactly twenty-five years before 'The Balcony' begins, reveals the fact that his fortune has vanished. Where did it go? And more important, just how did he amass it?...”