DCI Barnaby uncovers an elite Mafia-like sect called the Pudding Club at private boys' school Devington College while investigating a murder, and must get to the bottom of the mystery before another victim turns up dead.
Lyle goes home to Stockport with his mother to prevent the council from selling off local allotments for a golf course.
Environmental terrorists storm the Thames Barrier and threaten to flood London unless a document known as `Aftermath' is published. The document reveals the government's plans to abandon attempts to tackle global warming and instead build on economic and military strength so that Britain and America can control the remaining resources. Will Harry sacrifice his best officers to protect London and secure the government's lies?