When a drought-stricken lake begins to recede, the disappearance of a lottery winner and his fortune becomes a focal point for a tense investigation. Inspector Napoleon Bonaparte arrives at Lake Otway to observe a small group of individuals who are waiting for the water to reveal the truth about a man who vanished three years prior. The narrative follows Bonaparte as he navigates the social dynamics of the isolated outback community, using his observational skills to piece together the events surrounding the man's death. The story unfolds with a focus on the psychological tension between the suspects and the relentless environment of the Australian bush.

This work is recognized for its vivid depiction of the Australian outback and its unique protagonist, who bridges two cultures through his investigative prowess. The narrative style reflects the mid-twentieth-century tradition of the classic detective novel, prioritizing character observation and environmental detail. Readers often note the atmospheric tension created by the setting, which serves as a silent antagonist to the characters involved. The book remains a significant entry in the genre for its historical context and the methodical approach of its lead detective.