When a body is discovered in a remote, stony landscape, retired policeman Mel Pickett finds himself drawn into a complex investigation that threatens the quietude of his rural life. Pickett must navigate the social tensions of a small community while piecing together fragmented clues that point toward long-buried secrets. Opposed by local resistance and the weight of his own past, he relies on his methodical, observant nature to uncover the truth. The narrative unfolds through a measured, third-person perspective that emphasizes the atmospheric isolation of the setting.

This work is characterized by its adherence to the classic tropes of the traditional mystery genre, focusing on the interplay between a seasoned investigator and a closed-off community. The narrative style suggests a preference for atmospheric tension and character-driven procedural elements rather than high-octane thrills. Readers likely appreciate the methodical pacing and the author's ability to weave local history into the central conflict. The book stands as a representative example of the small-town detective subgenre, offering a contemplative look at how past secrets influence present-day crimes.