When two widows are found strangled in the remote town of Broome, Detective Inspector Napoleon Bonaparte is summoned to navigate the complex social dynamics of a tight-knit community to identify a killer. Bonaparte must contend with the isolation of the Australian outback and the guarded nature of the local residents who view an outsider with deep suspicion. His investigation relies on his unique ability to blend into diverse environments, utilizing his keen observation skills to piece together clues that local law enforcement has overlooked. The narrative follows a traditional procedural structure, emphasizing the methodical gathering of evidence and the psychological interrogation of suspects within a confined, atmospheric setting.

This work is regarded as a quintessential example of the Australian detective novel, showcasing the author's signature blend of procedural rigor and atmospheric world-building. The character of Napoleon Bonaparte remains a significant figure in the genre, noted for his intellectual depth and his ability to bridge disparate cultural worlds. Readers often highlight the vivid portrayal of the Broome setting, which functions as more than just a backdrop, actively influencing the progression of the investigation. The narrative structure reflects the conventions of mid-century crime fiction, prioritizing logical deduction and the slow revelation of hidden motives over rapid-fire action sequences.