Though countless detective writers weave tales around the axiom "murder will out," Grimes carves a niche with her unique credo—"murder must out." In her narrative, unresolved mysteries of yesteryears cast long shadows over future generations, sowing seeds for further transgressions. When the story opens with the seemingly inexplicable suicide of Jane Holdsworth, her demise appears detached from the circumstances surrounding her final days. It is only by delving into the intricate tapestry of her history and that of her deceased husband's kin that Jury begins to unravel the enigma of her tragic end.

When the family members of the slain take justice into their own hands, delivering swift vengeance upon the murderer, it is a visceral, elemental form of retribution. One character aptly dubs this "rough justice." In their eyes, the heinous acts committed are transgressions against the family itself, not merely infractions against society at large.