Private investigator Joe Sixsmith finds his life upended when he discovers a boy's corpse in a cardboard box outside a church, thrusting him into a complex web of local secrets. Joe must navigate the gritty streets of Luton while juggling a series of disparate, demanding clients, including a retired colonial woman and a local eccentric. He faces constant opposition from law enforcement, aggressive drug users, and the persistent, meddlesome interference of his own Auntie Mirabelle. The narrative unfolds through a sharp, observant lens, tracking Joe's attempts to reconcile the grim realities of his cases with his own sense of morality.

Reginald Hill is widely recognized for his ability to balance complex mystery plotting with a distinct, compassionate wit. Readers often highlight the character of Joe Sixsmith as a refreshing departure from the standard hardboiled detective archetype due to his vulnerability and domestic entanglements. The series is frequently praised for its sharp social commentary on the realities of life in Luton, which adds a layer of depth to the central crime narrative. Critics and fans alike appreciate the author's consistent prose quality, which remains elegant even when describing the darker aspects of the human condition. The consensus suggests that this installment successfully maintains the series' blend of humor and gravity.