Before the Poison by Peter Robinson follows the story of Chris Lowndes, a successful but troubled screenwriter who returns to his native Yorkshire after decades in Hollywood. Seeking solace in the remote countryside, he purchases a house that once belonged to a woman named Grace, who was convicted of murdering her husband many years earlier. Intrigued by Grace’s story and the circumstances surrounding her trial, Chris becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind the historic crime.

As he digs deeper, Chris finds himself unraveling a complex web of lies, betrayal, and hidden motives that reach far beyond the past. His investigation leads him to confront his own demons and reflect on the nature of love, loss, and redemption. The narrative alternates between Chris’s present-day journey and the events leading to Grace’s conviction, creating a rich tapestry of intrigue and suspense.

Robinson masterfully weaves together themes of guilt, morality, and the shadows of history, keeping readers engaged with unexpected twists and emotional depth. As Chris races against time to uncover the truth, he discovers that the past is never truly buried, and the consequences of actions can echo through generations, ultimately shaping one’s destiny.