When George Chapfield stumbles upon a man's lifeless body on his allotment, he's shocked to find the victim dressed in women's clothing, complete with makeup and nail varnish. What initially seems like an isolated tragedy quickly spirals into a web of intrigue as Detective Inspector Jane Douglas and Detective Sergeant Maureen Phipps are drawn into an investigation rife with blackmail, deception, and ties to the local gay community.

Their probe unearths unsettling connections: a prominent local landowner and a high-profile MP are entangled in a sordid mystery that stretches back decades to secrets rooted in childhood and schooldays. The deeper Jane and Maureen dig, the darker the revelations become.

As the body count begins to climb, the two detectives face mounting pressure—not just from the case but from the personal and professional risks it brings. With their careers hanging by a thread, they find themselves dangerously close to losing everything.

However, a lucky break—sparked by simmering jealousies and deep-seated hatred—provides them with the critical edge they need. Not only do they solve the case and safeguard their careers, but they also see a corrupt and tyrannical MEP brought to justice, landing on the wrong side of the prison gates.