The gaiety of St. Kilda's famous Esplanade is marred by the violence of gang warfare and the police who struggle to control it. When a gang leader is found dead outside a travelling boxing tent, Phryne's investigation leads her into the dangerous but thrilling world of fight rigging and tribal payback. As Constable Hugh Collins becomes emotionally embroiled, Phryne digs further to protect him and finds the most formidable fighters are outside the ring...