Spurred on by the father of a young woman who also went missing in the 1970s, the detectives attempt to outwit an incarcerated serial killer who may hold the key to the case.
The investigation takes a dangerous turn as a disturbing piece of evidence leads Robin and Strike into London's underworld. Robin risks her life by pursuing a vicious suspect.
Robin gets key information from a salesgirl at the boutique Lula visited. Strike arrives just as Robin tries on a stunning green dress and awkwardly averts his eyes as he explains his CCTV breakthrough.
At the office, Robin receives a package and is horrified to discover it contains a woman's severed leg. Strike draws up a list of suspects who have vendettas against him.
Strike visits several London strip clubs in order to find out more about Niall Brockbank. Robin's relationship with Matthew has hit a low point and she questions her commitment to marriage.
When a troubled model falls to her death from a snow-covered Mayfair balcony, it is assumed that she has committed suicide. However, her brother has his doubts, and calls in private investigator Cormoran Strike to look into the case.