Aurelio Zen returns to his native Venice to investigate the disappearance of an American millionaire, only to find himself entangled in a web of local corruption and historical secrets. Tasked with navigating the complex social and political landscape of Italy, Zen must balance his unofficial investigation for a wealthy family against the discovery of multiple, very real corpses. The narrative follows his methodical, skeptical approach as he confronts the ghosts of the past and the tangible dangers of the present. The story unfolds through a third-person perspective that emphasizes the atmospheric decay and intricate power dynamics of the Venetian setting.

The novel is widely regarded as a sophisticated entry in the Aurelio Zen series, praised for its evocative sense of place and the cynical wit of its protagonist. Readers often highlight the author's ability to capture the specific, claustrophobic atmosphere of Venice while maintaining a complex, multi-layered mystery. The work is frequently cited for its intellectual depth and its refusal to offer simple resolutions to the moral dilemmas faced by its characters. The prose is noted for its precision and its sharp observations on the intersection of personal history and public corruption. This installment solidifies the series' reputation for blending traditional detective fiction with a nuanced exploration of Italian culture.