Private investigator Kinsey Millhone must uncover the truth behind a suspicious car crash that leaves her client, Bobby Callahan, with amnesia and a persistent fear of further attempts on his life. Kinsey accepts the case, navigating the fragmented memories of a young man who believes he is being hunted. When Callahan is killed in a second, fatal accident shortly after hiring her, Kinsey shifts her focus to identifying the perpetrator behind the initial attempt. The narrative follows a traditional first-person detective framework, emphasizing procedural investigation and the systematic gathering of clues in a contemporary California setting.

Readers and critics frequently highlight the consistent tone and character voice that define this long-running series. Discussion often centers on the methodical nature of Kinsey Millhone's investigative process and how the author balances personal life details with the central mystery. Many appreciate the grounded, realistic approach to detective work, noting that the pacing remains steady throughout the investigation. The series is often praised for its ability to maintain tension without relying on excessive action sequences, focusing instead on the psychological motivations of the suspects. Readers frequently point to the clever use of the alphabet-themed titles as a hallmark of the series' enduring appeal.