Gunnarshaw is under siege. A peeping Tom prowls the streets and back yards, peering through windows, the police seemingly helpless to catch him. Then, a body is discovered in the garden of the local schools head teacher, much to the dismay of his well-heeled neighbours. But Detective-Sergeant Cluffs investigation drags him away from the rugged moorland market town of Gunnarshaw and his cosy cottage, to the run-down back streets of Liverpool, where ponces and prostitutes ply their trade. For once, however, Cluffs judgement of Gunnarshaw folk, his once faultless perception of human nature, not to mention his compassion, are severely put to the test. And at what cost? Justice? Whats more, Inspector Mole is determined to trip him up. Is Cluff past his best?