Lovejoy, an expert antique dealer with a penchant for trouble, finds himself entangled in the illicit world of night-time treasure hunters known as moonspenders. Driven by his obsession with authentic artifacts and his inability to resist a beautiful woman, Lovejoy navigates the shadowy underbelly of the British antique trade. He faces opposition from ruthless competitors and local authorities who view his unconventional methods with deep suspicion. The narrative unfolds through Lovejoy's cynical, first-person perspective, revealing the intricate mechanics of forgery and theft within the trade.

This entry in the long-running series maintains the established tone that readers expect from Jonathan Gash's work. The narrative relies on the protagonist's unique voice and his deep, technical knowledge of antiques to drive the plot forward. The premise suggests a focus on the specific criminal element of night-time artifact hunting, which provides a distinct backdrop for the mystery. The work is likely to appeal to those who enjoy character-driven crime fiction that prioritizes atmosphere and professional detail over high-octane action.