A botched burglary at a university laboratory inadvertently places a blueprint for urban anarchy into the hands of a small-time criminal, triggering a high-stakes game of extortion against the CIA. Leroy "Chinese" Gordon and his associates find themselves in possession of classified documents detailing how to destabilize Los Angeles, prompting them to attempt a ransom scheme that quickly spirals out of control. Opposing them is veteran CIA agent Ben Porterfield, who must navigate the incompetence of his own agency while attempting to contain the chaos. The narrative unfolds through a fast-paced, third-person perspective that highlights the absurdity of the escalating conflict between the criminals and the intelligence community.

This novel is widely regarded as a quintessential example of the comic thriller genre, noted for its sharp wit and inventive plot mechanics. Readers often highlight the balance between the high-stakes espionage premise and the eccentric, humorous character dynamics that drive the story forward. The inclusion of the titular dog and his feline companion adds a unique layer of levity that distinguishes the work from more traditional, gritty spy fiction. The narrative is frequently praised for its ability to maintain a brisk, entertaining pace while simultaneously satirizing the institutional failures of government agencies. It remains a standout title in the author's bibliography for its distinct blend of suspense and dark humor.