Morbid Catholic writer Gerard Reve–bisexual, alcoholic, and experiencing frequent visions of death–is invited to give a lecture at the Vlissingen literature club. While in the Amsterdam railway station, he's attracted to a handsome man who embarks on another train. Gerard meets club treasurer and beautician Christine Halsslag, and engage in a one-night-stand. The next morning, Gerard sees a picture of Christine's boyfriend Herman and recognises him as the man at the train station. He urges her to bring Herman to her house to spend a couple of days together, but with ulterior intentions of seduction. During a night on his own, Gerard finds and watches film reels, discovering that Christine had married each; all of whom died in tragic accidents. Believing Christine is a Black Widow, Gerard begins to question whether Herman or he will be her doomed fourth man.

Tim Devon was born out of wedlock and his mother never told his father about him. Overwhelmed, Tim leaves Los Angeles in search of his father-armed with only a name and the city of Amsterdam as clues. When funds run out, Tim begins the downward spiral into a life of crime and drug use. He is encountered by a single caring person.

Sherlock Jones is a handyman, a nice man who dreams of doing great things. Together with his dog Watson, he becomes involved in the case of the Karthoum diamond. This legendary stone arrives in the Netherlands to be cut and polished. The mafia attempts to steal the diamond during its transport from Schiphol Airport. They ensure that all security measures are checked by the 'renowned' private detective, because they know he will have no idea what is going on. The robbery is a great success. It's a good thing Watson is there too...