This book is the first in a series set in the 1960's, which introduces ex-Oxford professor Neptune King who always dreamed of being a detective greater than his fictional hero, Sherlock Holmes. When Neptune's wealthy aunt dies and leaves him her fortune, he finally has a chance to realize his dream. He hires handsome blond-haired Australia hunk, Shark Bateman Johnson as his assistant and the shy green-eyed, redhead, Rachel Green as his secretary and sets out to solve any cases that come his way. These range from a strangely immobile stepmother to drug runners, murderers, embezzlers, German spies and even ventures into the vicious competitive world of ballroom dancing. Neptune's deductions amaze, Shark's strength and courage delight and Rachel's charm enamours, as the three quickly become close friends in their quest to become the best private investigative firm in the country.