When a man vanishes from a remote sheep station during a severe drought, Detective Inspector Napoleon Bonaparte must infiltrate the isolated community to uncover the truth behind the disappearance. Disguised as a horse-breaker, Bony navigates the complex social dynamics and simmering tensions of the station workers to identify a killer. The narrative follows his methodical investigation as he waits for the receding waters of the lake to reveal the evidence hidden beneath the surface. The story is told through a third-person perspective that emphasizes the harsh environmental constraints of the Australian outback.

This novel is widely regarded as a significant entry in the Australian crime genre, noted for its atmospheric depiction of the outback. Readers often highlight the author's ability to weave a compelling mystery into a vivid portrait of environmental hardship. The character of Bony is frequently praised for his unique investigative methods and his deep connection to the land. The book remains a staple for those interested in mid-century detective fiction that prioritizes setting as a central narrative force.