When two infants are discovered buried in a fashionable London square, Inspector Thomas Pitt must navigate the rigid social hierarchies of the Victorian elite to uncover a killer. Pitt faces significant resistance from the upper class, who prioritize their reputation over the pursuit of justice. Assisted by his wife Charlotte, who utilizes her access to high-society circles to gather intelligence, Pitt must reconcile the stark contrast between the public facade of the wealthy and the grim reality of their private lives. The narrative follows a traditional investigative structure, alternating between the gritty police work of the inspector and the clandestine social observations of his spouse.

This work is recognized as a staple of the historical mystery genre, noted for its meticulous attention to the social mores of the Victorian period. Readers often highlight the dynamic between Thomas and Charlotte Pitt as the primary driver of the series' enduring appeal. The narrative is frequently praised for its ability to balance a compelling murder investigation with a sharp critique of 19th-century class structures. While the pacing is deliberate, the depth of the character development ensures that the mystery remains engaging throughout the investigation. The book serves as a foundational entry that establishes the tone and thematic focus for the broader series.