When a long-buried secret surfaces in the form of a mysterious grave, the Kelling family must navigate a web of social pretension and hidden motives to solve a murder. Sarah Kelling and Max Bittersohn find themselves entangled in a case that reaches back into the past, forcing them to reconcile historical family scandals with present-day threats. The narrative follows their investigation through the insular, high-society circles of Boston, where appearances are carefully maintained and truth is often obscured by tradition. The story unfolds with a focus on character dynamics and the subtle, often humorous, friction between the Kelling family's rigid expectations and the realities of criminal activity.

This novel is recognized for its adherence to the classic cozy mystery format, emphasizing character-driven humor and the specific social milieu of the Kelling family. Readers often note the author's ability to balance lighthearted domestic scenes with the underlying tension of a criminal investigation. The narrative style is frequently described as polished and observant, reflecting the author's established reputation for witty, character-focused detective fiction. The book serves as a representative entry in the series, maintaining the established tone and thematic focus that fans of the Kelling family expect.