A charred heart pinned to her door with an ancient Celtic dagger isn't the worst thing Maddie McGuire has discovered on her doorstep, but it isn't great. In fact, the heart is an unwelcome distraction from protecting the Chedworth Roman Villa from the ravages of winter and throws Maddie into a world of danger. Student workers Jill, Dion, and Gabriel have also joined the dig site, bringing with them secrets that invite chaos into this idyllic but remote Cotswold forest. Unable to rely on dashing Constable Bailey as he works toward a promotion, Maddie is stuck with Constable Douglass, who, convinced of her guilt, jeopardizes her safety rather than keeping her from it.