A magician and a race handicapper find themselves entangled in a high-stakes horse-racing scam at the Del Mar racetrack. Shifty Anderson, a magician currently on vacation, and Jay Fox, a man consumed by the mathematics of horse handicapping, navigate the complex social and criminal layers of the California racing circuit. Their objective involves uncovering the mechanics of a fraudulent scheme that threatens the integrity of the track. The narrative operates within the constraints of the racing world, where logical deduction and observation are the primary tools for survival. The story is presented through a focused lens that emphasizes the technical details of betting and the atmosphere of the track.

Readers frequently highlight the technical authenticity of the horse racing scenes, noting that the author provides a credible look at the world of track betting. Discussion often centers on the chemistry between the two protagonists, whose contrasting skill sets provide a unique dynamic for solving the central mystery. Critics often point to the stylistic prose that captures the specific mood of the California racing circuit during the period. The narrative balance leans heavily toward the mechanics of the scam rather than high-octane action, which appeals to those who enjoy procedural-style mysteries. Many readers appreciate the grounded nature of the plot, which avoids common genre tropes in favor of a more realistic portrayal of track life.