Detective Salvo Montalbano solves crimes in Vigata with his always loyal, and sometimes effective, police squad.

Bizarre kidnappings of young women in Vigata are happening for incomprehensible reasons. Montalbano also investigates an arson and the disappearance of a young business owner known for being a playboy and big spender. Montalbano is out of his depth when it comes to matters of the heart, so the disappearance of beautiful Michela Prestia leaves him totally stumped.