Arrington left Stone Barrington to marry Vance Calder, Hollywood's hottest property.  Stone is surprised to hear from Calder when Arrington vanishes.  Calder wants Stone to come to Hollywood to find her.  Stone is a former NY cop, now a lawyer and private investigator.

Stone flies to Hollywood and finds much to complicate the problem.  He discovers Calder has close links with a mob boss and a labor leader, and is under their thumb.  Even though he has time for a number of close associations with the beautiful sexy stars, he finds himself the target of the very people he is investigating.  He must keep his equilibrium to find Arrington before disaster overtakes him.

Swimming to Catalina has a fast moving plot that is full of dialogue and gibes at Hollywood's stars.  The story is highly entertaining with plenty of characters, beautiful women, fine wine, and fast cars: a complete picture of the Hollywood scene. Good for a few relaxing hours.