The retired Latin teacher, 69 year old Miss Julia Tyler, visits Rome for the first time and is introduced to an elaborate world of wealthy women, their titled consorts, and high fashion. The murders of a secretary, of another tourist, and of a Bishop engage her attention, and the practice of pirating designers' models is an extensive diversion from the real motive behind the crimes. The new habitat does not affect old habits; Miss Julia is still talky- and a little tedious.