Gently is surprised after he receives Bacchus's resignation, and he soon works out that he has lost his confidence. Attempting to help Bacchus, Gently insists that he needs him to help investigate a passing in custody.

Gently and Bacchus make their way to a family holiday camp to investigate both the staff and holidaymakers after a body of one of the greencoats is discovered nearby. Gently and Bacchus soon discover a story of jealousy, ambition and the dark side of a permissive society.

Following a suspicious passing in a mine in Burnsend, Gently and Bacchus find out about the tensions and relationships in a community which has been ripped wide apart by politics. They also find out about some grudges that go back to the Second World War.

When two passings connect in an unexpected way, Gently finds himself drawn into the world of drugs and LSD, and considering a Cold-War conspiracy. In the process of his investigation Gently relies on the help of an old friend - and as they begin to dig into the case, old feelings begin to stir for Gently.