Současně s pozvánkou na sraz abiturientů obdrží Jean výhružný anonymní dopis. Týká se její dcery Lily, kterou dala před dvaceti lety k adopci a jejíž existenci tajila. Přes všechna varování odjede do hotelu, kde má sraz proběhnout. Tam se setká také s detektivem, který vyšetřuje záhadná úmrtí pěti spolužaček. Jean netuší, že mezi přítomnými se pohybuje i tajemný vrah a že má políčeno právě na ni.
The Edgar Award-winning novel "A Conspiracy of Paper" marks a standout debut in 2000. In this suspenseful follow-up, David Liss transports readers to Amsterdam in 1659, a time of cultural and financial upheaval. The story unfolds in a world of trade, where schemers thrive and deception reigns. Miguel Lienzo, a once-envied trader in the Portuguese Jewish community, faces ruin after a sudden shift in the sugar markets. Now impoverished and reliant on his younger brother's charity, Miguel is desperate to reclaim his wealth and reputation. He partners with a seductive Dutchwoman who presents a daring opportunity: to corner the market on a new commodity—coffee. To succeed, Miguel must risk everything, navigating the chaotic markets, the greed of rivals, and a powerful enemy intent on his downfall. As he delves deeper, Miguel discovers that betrayal is rampant among Amsterdam's businessmen, with even friends harboring hidden agendas. With humor, imagination, and mystery, Liss paints a vivid picture of a world fraught with danger and longing, where traditional values clash with the demands of a burgeoning business landscape. This captivating tale will keep readers of historical suspense and coffee enthusiasts engaged long into the night.