Against a background of chaos in government and constant cuts in funding and resources, Detective Superintendent Cecilia Cavaliere of Exeter CID and her team are faced with a series of murders, what appears to be treason, and a complex investigation in which they seem to be better at eliminating suspects than spotting them. Cecilia's Anglican priest husband Michael Aarons and the usual assortment of colleagues, friends, children, dogs and cats are along for the ride.

"Bryan's heroes aren't just likable but lovable: intelligent, amusing, hardworking, even kind to animals. In contrast, the novel's villains are truly spooky and disturbing; readers are always aware of the urgency of stopping their evil plans. An enjoyable novel of spiritual mystery and adventure--well-plotted, intelligent and deeply moving." (Kirkus Review of Christopher Bryan's Siding Star)