When a contentious anti-hunting bill threatens the traditions of the House of Lords, the abrasive Jack Troutbeck initiates a high-stakes campaign to derail the legislation. Assisted by her long-time associate Robert Amiss, Troutbeck navigates the rigid social and political hierarchies of the British establishment to protect her interests. Their efforts are met with violent resistance from radical animal rights activists, escalating from intimidation to attempted murder. The narrative unfolds through a sharp, satirical lens, tracking the collision between entrenched aristocratic privilege and modern militant activism within the halls of power.

This novel is recognized as a quintessential entry in the Robert Amiss series, noted for its biting wit and cynical observation of the British political landscape. Readers often highlight the author's ability to balance a traditional whodunit structure with sharp social commentary on the hunting debate. The characterization of Jack Troutbeck is frequently cited as a highlight, providing a disruptive force that challenges the decorum of the House of Lords. The narrative maintains a consistent tone of irreverence that characterizes the author's broader body of work in the mystery genre.