After a three-year absence, former police officer Harry Hole returns to Norway to investigate another murder. This time, he is driven by deeply personal motives: the accused is the son of his former lover Rakel. Harry knew Oleg as a child and is now ready to break himself to prove his innocence. Since the victim was a drug dealer, Harry begins his search in this direction. During his unofficial investigation, he learns of the existence of a mysterious man who controls the local drug network. No one knows his name. He appears out of nowhere, like a ghost, gives orders, executes and spares, and then disappears again. His henchmen act ruthlessly and kill without hesitation. Harry understands that only by getting close to this sinister 'ghost' will he be able to help Oleg...
