Champion jockey Harry Radcliffe is wracked with guilt, reeling from the knowledge that his recent attempt to solve the murder of local prostitute Alice Goode has led to devastating consequences for his ex-wife Annabel and her new partner Sir Jeffrey, as well as horse-box driver John Dunston's suicide. Or did it? A letter handed to Harry at John's funeral contains the shocking revelation that the circumstances surrounding his death are not what they seem.

As Harry investigates, he uncovers links to his last case, as well as the death of his boss Mike Grantley's wife, Monica, in a skiing accident. With a trip to Switzerland and a budding romance on the cards, Harry is a man in demand. But someone wants the letter - and will stop at nothing to get it. Is Harry's pursuit of the truth another dangerous step too far?