The last thing detective Gwen Meyers expected to examine was the body of her former classmate—and lover—Kathy Wright. One look and Gwen knows the scene is staged. For Gwen, the long Wisconsin winter just got colder.

The arrival of forensic investigator Chloe Carpenter brings little warmth, and the interference of Kathy's father, a department captain, throws the investigation off kilter. Scarletsville is a small town run by powerful men. Another murder leads to the inescapable conclusion that persons unknown are frightened by the investigation.

The growing spark Gwen feels for Chloe is unsettling, but not unwanted. But exploring the invitation in Chloe's eyes will come with high risks in a small town with so many undercover secrets and untold lies.