The discovery of a U.S. Senator murdered by machete on a secluded Caribbean golf course forces Chief Superintendent Henry Tibbett into a web of international intrigue. Henry and his wife, Emmy, arrive on the island of St. Mathews at the request of friends to investigate a crime that initially appears to be a simple case of local violence. As he navigates the social hierarchies of the exclusive island club and the political implications of the victim's status, Henry must look past the convenient arrest of a local bartender. The narrative follows a traditional investigative framework, utilizing Henry's methodical observation to peel back layers of deception that extend far beyond the island's borders.

Readers frequently highlight the contrast between the idyllic island setting and the grim nature of the crime as a defining feature of the work. Discussion often centers on the effectiveness of Henry Tibbett as a calm, observant protagonist who relies on intellect rather than force to resolve complex cases. Critics often point to the author's ability to weave political tension into a classic whodunit structure without sacrificing the pacing of the mystery. The balance between character interaction and the procedural elements remains a consistent point of praise among fans of mid-century detective fiction. Many readers appreciate the atmospheric world-building that captures the specific social tensions of the Caribbean setting during the period.