Chief Inspector Peter McGarr faces a high-stakes investigation into the murder of an American expatriate that threatens to expose sensitive political secrets. Tasked with solving the brutal death of Robert Ovens, McGarr navigates the complex social and political landscape of Dublin. He must contend with internal police bureaucracy and external pressure from state actors who suspect him of mishandling a classified bombing report. The narrative follows a traditional procedural framework, emphasizing the methodical collection of evidence against a backdrop of historical tension.

Readers frequently highlight the author's ability to capture the specific atmosphere of Dublin during a period of significant political unrest. Discussion often centers on the protagonist's intellectual approach to investigation, which contrasts with the more aggressive tactics found in other crime novels of the era. Critics often note the density of the prose, which prioritizes setting and character nuance over rapid-fire action sequences. The balance of procedural accuracy and political intrigue remains a primary point of interest for fans of the series. Readers appreciate how the narrative avoids simplistic resolutions, instead focusing on the moral complexities inherent in the detective's work.