The trial of Harry Ashe, accused of murder with extreme cruelty, was won thanks to the brilliant defense of lawyer Venice Aldridge. But soon after the end of the trial, she is found dead in her office, with a bloody head. Adam Dalgliesh, investigating the circumstances of her death, finds out: many did not like the young successful lawyer and were jealous of her. And in the Harry Ash case, which she was involved in, there are many secrets hidden related to the family of Venice Aldridge herself. And it seems that the unknown criminal will stop at nothing to ensure that they never come to light...