MP Leo Barr is informed of his brother Charlie's apparent suicide, triggering a cascade of family conflict and hidden secrets. Charlie, Leo's favorite brother, has died by suicide, hanging himself from a tree at a mental hospital. This event shatters the family, with their mother Imogen losing the will to live and Leo and his lawyer brother Roland engaging in their usual antagonistic dynamic. Father Ron must deliver the devastating news to Charlie's wife, who is currently incarcerated. As the family grieves and confronts their fractured relationships, it becomes apparent that Charlie's death is merely the catalyst for uncovering a deeper web of mystery and deceit that binds them all.

The novel appears to delve into the complexities of family relationships and the hidden truths that can lie beneath the surface of apparent tragedy. The premise suggests a narrative that balances the emotional fallout of grief with the unfolding of a mystery, likely appealing to readers who enjoy character-driven dramas with suspenseful undertones. The focus on sibling dynamics and the unraveling of secrets points towards a story that explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the lasting impact of past events. The setting in London provides a contemporary urban landscape for these intricate personal dramas to unfold.