Gabriel Lacey, retired Dragoon Captain, receives a call regarding a murder that occurred during a high society ball. His former sergeant, now a Bow Street Runner, has arrested Gabriel's ex-commander and once mentor. Col. Brandon's knife is the murder weapon and several witnesses saw the colonel arguing with the victim over a woman. Col. Brandon offers no explanation other than to say he is innocent. Wishing he could ignore the colonel's difficulties, Gabriel nevertheless knows Col. Brandon could not cold-bloodedly kill a man.

Gabriel gathers his friends, which include Lucius Grenville and Lady Breckenridge, to aid him in unraveling the mystery. The colonel refuses Gabriel's help, instead trying to provoke Gabriel into leaving the case by using Gabriel's deep affection for his wife. If he hangs, Gabriel can finally claim her. However, Gabriel is coming to terms with his admiration and love for Louisa. In the past, Gabriel's life had been a wreck, but now he's building new relationships with new friends and possibly a new love. Gabriel's sense of honor compels him to seek the man who truly committed the crime. With few clues, he delves into the victim's life trying to find the real connection between them.

This fifth entry in the historical series featuring Capt. Lacey is a beguiling Regency mystery. Gabriel Lacey's complex past is woven into the tale further enriching the plot. Ashley Gardner develops characters from all walks of Regency life, which enhances her plot and adds depth and substance to the tale.