When an elderly Yugoslavian woman is murdered in a small Australian town, art expert Essington Holt finds himself entangled in a dangerous web of international espionage and long-buried wartime secrets. After receiving threatening letters, the victim's death forces Holt to navigate a complex investigation that spans from the French Riviera to the Australian outback and Venice. Opposed by shadowy political factions and professional killers, Holt must rely on his wits and an unexpected alliance with an Aboriginal lawyer to survive. The narrative unfolds through a third-person perspective that tracks Holt's transition from a wealthy expatriate to a man obsessed with uncovering the truth behind a hidden cache of documents.

Critics have noted that the novel successfully balances the refined atmosphere of the French Riviera with the rugged, insular nature of the Australian setting. The character of Essington Holt is frequently described as a reserved yet engaging protagonist who provides a steady anchor for the complex, multi-layered plot. Reviewers have highlighted the author's ability to weave historical political intrigue into a modern mystery framework effectively. The inclusion of the Aboriginal lawyer as an ally is often cited as a significant development that adds depth to the investigation and the protagonist's personal growth. Overall, the work is viewed as a solid entry in the series that maintains a consistent tone of suspense throughout the global search for answers.