This is the 4th of the Max Falconer mysteries, centring on a museum curator whose vole research is frequently interrupted by criminal and other activities. The museum is already in crisis, with the director in hospital and a new threat from a mysterious animals rights activist, when Amanda makes an unpleasant discovery which sets off a police investigation. Meanwhile Max and Philippa are settling in together and Philippa’s career seems to be heading in a new – and possibly dangerous – direction.