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"The Black Pagoda," the first tale in the book, begins with a strange phone call from an old friend's wife. Brig Ellis, the main character, was friends with Walter back in their army days. Now, Walter has gone missing. Ellis agrees to search for his friend, but soon discovers a mysterious mark known as the Black Pagoda. The second tale, "Asphalt Sonata," follows Ellis, a San Diego private investigator (P.I.), once again, but on a matter of security. Ellis' cousin Lisa needs his help as the security detail for a rather eccentric figure. What starts out as seemingly clear-cut leaves Ellis often with more questions than answers, such as being detained by a ranger.
Fast-paced moments in Kilgore's book almost feel like scenes in a detective show, caught up in suspense, or trying to puzzle out pieces of a mystery. Heavy dialogue brings the characters to life, especially Ellis, capturing the wit and punchiness of a TV script. Unlike in a television show, the non-dialogue sections allow Ellis' inner thoughts to be explored as he contemplates what he experienced and observed. The story's depth comes across in references to works such as Dante's epic poem The Divine Comedy or a W3 code, like peering over the shoulder of someone cracking codes in the National Treasure film series. While there isn't necessarily a Dr. Watson like in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes books, a P.I. taking on leads from his cousin and his friend's wife does echo how a Holmes case often begins—the mystery one can't resist. Even raising an empty glass to fill another, Ellis has all the makings of a classic P.I. with sharp instincts, a bit of rough edges, and a drink within reach.