While Lynley is suspended, Havers works with Inspector Fiona Knight to investigate a woman who drowned in her car. Meanwhile, Lynley attends a hearing to find out if he'll be able to return to work. While waiting for the results, he begins working with Havers and Knight in their investigation.
Lynley, Havers and DC Winston Nkata go after organized crime boss Michael Shand. But just when they get close, their informant Roger Pollard is shot in what appears to be a contract killing. They soon learn that there is more to the shooting.
When Emily Proctor, an aspiring barrister is found axed to death in Hyde Park, Lynley and Havers must investigate. When they learn that Emily had a double life they end up investigating an affair as well as the world of Internet porn and family secrets. Meanwhile, Lynley works on his relationship with his wife.
A former war photographer turned paparazzi, Peter Rooker is found beaten and shot to death in Soho, London. Lynley and Havers' investigation leads them from tabloid newspaper mogul Eddie Price and editor Melissa Booth to a 1995 massacre executed by the Serbian militia in Bosnia. Lynley asks his wife to help him with the psychology behind the murder setting in motion a series of tragic events.