This third novel to feature one-handed private investigator Sid Halley focuses on the fallout that affects Sid after he accuses his friend (and television personality) Ellis Quint of a heinous crime. Through flashbacks, we learn of the series of events that force Sid to conclude that his friend has an ugly hidden side. Despite the evidence, however, Quint seems likely to get off. Likely, that is, unless Sid can determine why an unseen power is so anxious to have Quint judged innocent at Halley's expense.