Inspired to investigate Jacob's early life in London where he trained as a photographer, she uncovers a macabre history laced with scandal. In 1905, Jacob apprenticed with Herbert Burrows who photographed the seances of the Theosophist Society. Among the members of the society was Reverend Charles Leadbetter, who also employed Burrows for an altogether more sinister task. Intrigued by the possibilities of photography, Leadbetter secretly used young children in experiments to capture the soul on film as it leaves the body. When Leadbetter's scheme is discovered, it leads to further deceit and murder. The true story is gradually pieced together from Johanna's research and Jacob's own account, leading to a chilling discovery in the Thames.