Successful defense barrister William Travers thought he was done with the stresses of London murder cases. Yet he risks his family's quiet country life when he undertakes the defense of an old friend accused of murder. Travers also faces trouble near home when a police detective with a grudge investigates a local killing.

Travers learns more about his friend Martin's murder case, discovering what may be a conspiracy involving oil and money. Detective Wenborn, investigating the killing near Travers's home, unearths a different yet equally lethal conspiracy. Meanwhile, Travers's wife, Jane, identifies a diamond in the rough among her students.

While the case against Martin becomes stronger, the implications of the conspiracy grow as well. Detective Wenborn's investigation heats up, but so does his personal conflict. Jane's student runs afoul of Wenborn's detective work, with shocking consequences.