The Consortium is the brainchild of Russian ex-patriot scientist Vasily Kozlov. A multimillionaire eccentric who lives on St. Mary's Island in the 16th-century Star Castle, he has funded an ongoing forum for the practical and realistic consideration of conservation and bio-diversity issues. They review current issues and present papers for discussion, which in the past have created some hot debates. Among the members of the Forum is Gideon's old buddy from his university days, Rudy Walker.

While Julie is attending the Conference, Gideon explores the early Neolithic sites, where he discovers bones which are newer than the ancient ones. Gideon is known as the Skeleton Detective because of his passion for human bones. At the invitation of Madeleine Goodfellow, Director of the Isles of Scilly Museum, he studies the discovered bones, together with others that have been found previously. He determines that they point to murder. With the local policeman, Sergeant Clapper, he tries to identify the skeletal remains. There is another murder at the castle, pointing to a murderer among the occupants of the castle. Their investigations lead them on a trail to reported deaths by a bear's attacks in Alaska, and to fatal disagreements.

The island and castle that are the scene of this mayhem are enchanting. The plot is an intriguing one, full of red herrings that lead the reader astray. The characters are realistic with their too-human emotions. The tour of the castle is very descriptive. The reader senses the beauty of the island and the age of the castle. There is a comprehensive discussion of the study of human bones, perhaps more information than the reader will ever need.

This is a fast-moving story which will give enjoyment and hope for more about Gideon and Julie in the future.