Aurelio Zen returns to his native Venice to investigate a missing American millionaire, only to find himself entangled in a web of local corruption and historical secrets. Tasked with locating the missing man while simultaneously addressing the concerns of a distressed contessa, Zen navigates the labyrinthine canals and political instability of the city. He faces opposition from entrenched power structures and the constant threat of those who wish to keep the past buried. The narrative follows Zen’s methodical, skeptical approach as he confronts both the physical dangers of the Venetian underworld and the psychological weight of his own history in the city.

This work is regarded as a sophisticated entry in the detective genre, noted for its atmospheric depth and the complex characterization of its protagonist. The narrative style emphasizes the interplay between the physical decay of Venice and the moral ambiguity of its inhabitants. Readers and critics often highlight the author's ability to weave intricate political commentary into a traditional mystery framework. The book is frequently cited for its avoidance of genre tropes in favor of a more nuanced, character-driven investigation that reflects the specific cultural tensions of its setting.