Set against the backdrop of Scotland's 2014 devolution vote, the story follows Tim Ryder, a junior minister grappling with a potential mid-life crisis. As he navigates personal and professional turmoil, including an impending general election and an unpopular coalition government, Tim seeks to reassess his life and relationships. However, he soon discovers that external circumstances are shaping his fate in ways he cannot escape.
A Chinese student struggles to adapt to life in Britain as he faces language barriers and financial difficulties upon starting his postgraduate studies. Seeking assistance from a Chinese businessman he met at the airport leads to unforeseen and disastrous consequences, culminating in his mysterious disappearance. As his university tutor alerts the police, a parallel investigation unfolds, hinting at deeper issues within the university itself. The novel blends wit and topical themes, exploring the challenges of cultural adjustment and the complexities of trust.