Martin Beck faces his final investigation as he attempts to protect a visiting dignitary from a looming threat of political assassination. As the Swedish police force struggles with internal bureaucracy and the rising tide of international terrorism, Beck must navigate a complex web of surveillance and shifting loyalties. The narrative maintains a detached, observational perspective, reflecting the cold reality of police work in a changing society. Beck’s objective is to maintain order in a world where the lines between law enforcement and political maneuvering have become increasingly blurred.

This novel is widely regarded as a definitive conclusion to the Martin Beck series, marking a shift toward more overtly political themes than its predecessors. Critics often highlight the authors' ability to blend a traditional police procedural with a cynical, sharp-eyed critique of societal structures. The work is frequently cited for its influence on the development of the modern Scandinavian crime genre, establishing tropes that remain prevalent today. Readers often note the somber, reflective tone that permeates the narrative, signaling the end of an era for the iconic detective.