 New York City Police Department detective Mark McPherson is investigating the murder of a highly successful advertising executive, Laura Hunt, killed by a shotgun blast to the face just inside the doorway of her apartment.He first interviews charismatic newspaper columnist Waldo Lydecker, an imperious, effete dandy, who relates how he met Laura and became her mentor.She had become his platonic friend and steady companion, and he used his considerable fame, influence, and connections to advance her career.