When a powerful newspaper tycoon is found murdered, the Home Secretary bypasses standard police procedure to recruit four legendary detectives to solve the case independently. The investigation centers on a high-stakes political environment where the suspects include the Chief Whip, an Archbishop, and a high-ranking Scotland Yard official. Each detective must navigate the conflicting interests of the elite while operating without the support or interference of the official police force. The narrative structure highlights the distinct methodologies of these iconic sleuths as they compete to uncover the truth behind the tycoon's demise.

This collaborative work is widely regarded as a curiosity of the Golden Age of detective fiction, showcasing the distinct voices of some of the era's most celebrated authors. Readers often highlight the novelty of seeing iconic characters like Lord Peter Wimsey and Mrs. Adela Bradley placed in a shared narrative framework. The book is frequently analyzed for its meta-fictional elements, as the authors intentionally subvert the tropes they helped establish. It serves as a testament to the camaraderie and competitive spirit that defined The Detection Club during its formative years. The text remains a significant artifact for those interested in the evolution of the British mystery novel.