When a wealthy widower dies under suspicious circumstances shortly after naming the Sloan Guaranty Trust as his executor, John Putnam Thatcher must navigate a complex web of corporate and personal intrigue to uncover the truth. Thatcher, a senior vice president at the Sloan, finds himself investigating a death that initially appears to be the result of medical malpractice. As he probes deeper into the victim's affairs, he encounters a variety of suspects with motives tied to the man's substantial estate. The narrative follows a traditional mystery structure, emphasizing logical deduction and the interplay between high-stakes finance and human fallibility. Thatcher must contend with both the legal complexities of the estate and the evasive behavior of those involved in the widower's final days.

Readers frequently highlight the sharp, dry wit that characterizes the writing style of Emma Lathen. Discussion often centers on the clever integration of banking procedures and corporate politics into the framework of a classic murder mystery. Critics note that the pacing remains steady, prioritizing character interaction and verbal sparring over high-octane action sequences. The series is often praised for its ability to make financial environments feel both accessible and dangerous to the reader. Many appreciate the intellectual rigor Thatcher brings to his investigations, which distinguishes this work from more visceral crime fiction.