A charismatic and enigmatic figure arrives in London, setting off a chain of complex social and romantic entanglements among a circle of intellectuals and socialites. The protagonist, Annette Cockeyne, finds herself drawn into the orbit of Mischa Fox, a man whose influence over those around him borders on the hypnotic. As Annette navigates the demands of her own burgeoning independence, she must contend with the manipulative machinations of Fox and the shifting loyalties of her peers. The narrative employs a third-person perspective to observe the psychological maneuvers and social posturing within this insular group, highlighting the tension between individual desire and external control.

Readers and critics frequently note the intricate, often labyrinthine nature of the plot as characters navigate their complex relationships with the central figure. Discussion often centers on the author's ability to blend sharp social satire with deeper, more unsettling psychological inquiries into the nature of power. Many highlight the atmospheric quality of the prose, which captures the specific anxieties of the mid-century intellectual milieu. The balance between character development and the unfolding social drama is often cited as a primary strength of the work. Observers frequently remark on the elusive nature of the central antagonist, which invites varied interpretations regarding his symbolic role in the lives of the other characters.