PI Angel Graham is called to the deathbed of Sam Binks, the gay Mafia crime boss, sometimes known as the fairy godfather, who wanted him to find the man who'd shot him, a killer known as Paperbag because he carried his silenced pistol around in one. He's teamed with black hitman Jeff Queens, Angel's almost brother-in-law.
In their investigation of the seemingly unconnected kills, they learn why Paperbag is killing them and who he's saving for last. A sneaking respect develops in both men.