Elizabeth II’s coronation is looming, but DI Edgar Stephens is busy investigating the death of a local fortuneteller. Meanwhile, his old pal, the magician Max Mephisto, is rehearsing for his television debut, a Coronation Day variety show. But upon hearing that their wartime commander, Colonel Cartwright, has been found dead in his flat, the two men join forces to find out what happened. While Max is stuck in rehearsals, Edgar finds himself heading...

Detective Murdoch and Dr. Ogden are thrilled with their new baby, but domestic bliss eludes Crabtree on his path to the altar and coroner Miss Hart as she deals with her menacing father.