A devastating wildfire in Southern California serves as the catalyst for private investigator Lew Archer to uncover a cold case involving murder and long-buried secrets. Archer navigates the fractured lives of a community struggling with the aftermath of the blaze, finding that the fire has exposed deep-seated corruption and personal tragedies. As he investigates the disappearance of a man and the subsequent extortion plot, he must contend with a cast of characters whose past actions continue to dictate their present misery. The narrative unfolds through Archer's observant, first-person perspective, emphasizing the psychological toll of the crimes he uncovers.

This work is widely regarded as a high point in the Lew Archer series, showcasing the author's ability to weave intricate plots with profound social commentary. Critics often highlight the atmospheric use of the California landscape, which mirrors the internal turmoil of the characters Archer encounters. The novel is frequently cited for its psychological depth, moving beyond standard procedural tropes to examine the lasting impact of past trauma on the present. Readers and scholars alike appreciate the precision of the prose and the way the mystery serves as a vehicle for exploring human frailty and the consequences of long-held secrets.