A young man is found dead in the room of one of South Floridaas most exclusive hotels. Unable to determine a cause of death, police and forensic pathologists are baffled. Dr. Clifford Mandich, chief dermatology resident at Miamias Jackson Memorial Hospital and cousin of the dead man, has a fascination for detective novels. He and his uncle, a detective in the Miami-Dade Police Department, are forced to investigate. Dr. Mandichas knowledge of medicine and dermatology help him recognize clues that other investigators overlook. He becomes romantically involved with Lauren Jeffries, a beautiful woman and partner in an accounting firm. She becomes both a distraction and an ally in the search for a possible killer or killers. Elements of international smuggling, kidnapping, deceit, and romance come together in South Floridaas enticing climate.