In the bustling New York of the 1950s, a private detective with a special touch finds himself caught in a whirlwind of intrigue and conspiracy. Lionel Essrog, who suffers from Tourette's syndrome, is not just any detective; his unique way of viewing the world allows him to pick up on details that others overlook. When his mentor and father figure, Frank Minna, is murdered, Lionel embarks on a desperate mission to uncover the truth behind this crime. Armed with his wit and unwavering tenacity, the detective dives into a dark world of corruption involving powerful politicians and shadowy real estate interests.
In his quest, Lionel encounters a series of memorable characters, from elegant and enigmatic women to sharp-toothed mobsters, each with their own secrets to protect. As he unravels the web surrounding Frank's death, he is also confronted with his own internal demons and the struggle for his identity in a city that seems to be on the brink of chaos.
With a narrative that blends the charm of classic film noir with a modern approach, the story transports us to an era filled with mystery and danger. Lionel's ambition to solve the case will not only lead him to uncover the truth surrounding his mentor but also to confront his own limitations and find his place in a world that often overlooks him.