The sudden disappearance of a physicist and a rare book dealer from a secluded London estate forces Albert Campion to investigate a web of international intrigue. Campion enters the investigation after the vanishing of Vassily Kopeck, a physicist with diplomatic ties, and his associate, Felix Perdreau. The narrative follows Campion as he navigates the eccentric environment of Inglewood Turrets, a residence that serves as a facade for complex social and political maneuvers. The story utilizes a traditional detective framework, emphasizing the logical deduction required to track individuals who have effectively vanished into the urban landscape. Campion must contend with the obfuscation of the residents and the high-stakes nature of the missing men's professional backgrounds.

Readers frequently highlight the author's ability to maintain the established tone and character voice of the original Albert Campion series. Discussion often centers on the intricate plotting and the atmospheric description of the London setting, which serves as a central element of the mystery. Critics note that the narrative balances the lighthearted eccentricities of the cast with the gravity of the central disappearance. The pacing is generally described as deliberate, favoring character interaction and environmental detail over rapid-fire action sequences. Fans of traditional detective fiction often appreciate the focus on logical puzzle-solving within a confined, high-tension environment.