Van Veeteren finds retiring from the police force is easier said than done when two decapitated bodies are found in quick succession. The matching MO in the two grisly murders brings the investigation teams of Maardam and Kaalbringen together - a collaboration that is not without its problems.
The year is 1912 at Lund University, Herman Lange arrives with ambitions to become a lawyer but soon the night life and drink seem more tempting. And then Herman meets his big love.
