Upon returning from wartime service, Albert Campion discovers a corpse in his London flat, forcing him to postpone his reunion with his wife. Campion attempts to navigate the complexities of a high-society household while investigating a murder that threatens to entangle him in treason and theft. The narrative follows his efforts to clear his name and resolve the mystery while managing the eccentricities of Lord Carados and his formidable mother. The story utilizes a third-person perspective to track Campion's logical deductions against the backdrop of a war-weary London. The constraints of the investigation are defined by the social hierarchies of the era and the lingering instability of the wartime period.

Readers frequently highlight the shift in tone as the series moves into the wartime era, noting a darker atmosphere compared to earlier entries. Discussion often centers on the characterization of Albert Campion as he transitions from a lighthearted sleuth to a more seasoned, weary operative. Critics often point to the intricate plotting and the inclusion of eccentric supporting characters as hallmarks of the author's style. The balance between the mystery's procedural elements and the social commentary on the period remains a frequent topic of analysis among fans of the genre. Many readers appreciate the way the narrative captures the specific anxieties of the time while maintaining a traditional detective structure.