A reckless move in the drugs trade turns into a dice with death for Inspector Adam Dalgliesh. The community is stunned by the violent death at Toynton Grange, and the consequences for Maggie Hewson. Dalgliesh arrives at the nursing home and learns more shocking news from Father Baddeley, whilst receiving an offer of help from Julius Court.

The violent death at Toynton Grange stuns the community and has alarming consequences for Maggie Hewson. Adam Dalgliesh arrives at the nursing home to visit his old friend Father Baddelely and learns some shocking news.

Dalgliesh investigates the mysterious fire in the Black Tower and discovers Maggie Hewson's reluctance to answer questions about her meeting with her solicitor.

Recriminations begin at Toynton Grange nursing home after the fire in the Black Tower. Maggie Hewson faces awkward questions about her visit to her solicitor. Ursula Hollis has an unnerving encounter as tragedy returns to the troubled community.

Another untimely death and a meeting to discuss the future of Toynton Grange heighten tension. Julius Court discovers that Dalgliesh has uncovered his past. The detective makes a grisly discovery after revealing interviews ith Eric Hewson and Helen Rainer.

The inquest into the latest death at Toynton Grange fails to provide satisfactory answers for Adam Dalgliesh. A conversation with Henry Carwardine proves more revealing. If his solution proves right, the detective's own safety could be at risk.