After a dream honeymoon, Carly and Thorne return home to Lillington, North Carolina, a small town where everyday lives play out amidst a backdrop of hope, beliefs, prejudices, and love. When a neighbor's disturbing report leads to the discovery of a dead body, Police Chief Lolo turns to Thorne to help investigate. As Thorne follows the twisted trails of truth and mistaken identities, he uncovers shocking secrets. Meanwhile, young divorcée Jennifer Ward relocates to Lillington with her son Kenny, seeking comfort from her father Vernon after years of estrangement. But adjusting to this unfamiliar small town is an immense challenge for Kenny. When Jennifer's ex-husband turns up murdered, Thorne launches another investigation, enlisting the help of his former colleague Big Al. In this close-knit community, the veneers of prestige, power and wealth mask guilt-ridden affairs and lies. Colorful locals, from politically incorrect figures to high and mighty titans, will captivate readers looking for their next compelling story.