Navajo Tribal Policeman Joe Leaphorn must solve a series of crimes. He partners with new deputy, Jim Chee, who is back on the reservation for the first time since he was a child. Together they face down evil forces both earthly and supernatural.

Leaphorn and Chee interview the surviving witness to the Big Rock Motel murders. Chee meets with the coroner-- the cause of death remains a mystery. Meanwhile, Sgt. Manuelito makes a chilling discovery of her own.

Leaphorn's niece celebrates her Kinaaldá as Leaphorn retrieves the bodies of the murder victims. Meanwhile, Manuelito and Chee investigate the whereabouts of the missing Mormon family.

With a major suspect in custody, Leaphorn discovers that there is more to this crime than he would have ever imagined. Manuelito faces her worst fears. Chee must make a choice between his career and his people.

Leaphorn, Chee, and Manuelito descend on the hiding place of the Buffalo Society, only to be confronted with hard decisions that could change the outcome of the rest of their lives.

With his suspect in custody, Leaphorn races against the clock to get a confession, while Chee goes under cover at the cult that ties their investigations together. Meanwhile, Manuelito counsels a teenager nervous about the draft.

Leaphorn and Chee discover evidence that connects their cases, only for Leaphorn to realize justice won't be easily served. Meanwhile, Manuelito prepares for a big life change.

Leaphorn is forced to confront his worst fears and darkest memories when he puts his life on the line to prevent another murder.