A high-diver witnesses a murder at a Civil War re-enactment, pulling him into a dangerous web of mobsters and gamblers in the Deep South. Dennis Lenahan, a professional high-diver, finds his life complicated when he inadvertently becomes a witness to a killing during a staged battle. He must navigate the volatile interests of local criminals and opportunistic outsiders who seek to exploit the situation for their own gain. The narrative employs a third-person perspective, focusing on the interplay between disparate characters caught in a high-stakes conflict.

Readers and critics frequently highlight the author's ability to craft distinct, memorable voices for his characters through sparse and rhythmic dialogue. Discussion often centers on the unique setting of a Civil War re-enactment, which serves as a backdrop for the unfolding criminal plot. Many reviewers note the balance between the gritty noir elements and the satirical tone that permeates the narrative. The pacing is often described as deliberate, allowing the reader to observe the complex motivations of the various players involved in the central conflict.