The main character, an alumna of Mission School, Chen Su Lin,[1] a Peranakan, is 16 years of age and had been afflicted by polio.
[2] The previous nanny, an Irishwoman,[2] with the name Charity Byrne, died from a neck injury sustained from falling off of a balcony a possible act of foul play.
While the governor contacts authorities to look into the matter,[3] Su Lin decides to investigate Charity's death herself, working with Le Froy.
[2] Olivia Ho of the Straits Times described Su Lin as a "efficient, resourceful heroine" while Le Froy "is a little bit too perfect".
[2] James Kidd of the South China Morning Post rated the book four of five stars, citing the "arresting plot" and the dynamism of the main characters.