Trouble finds rookie coroner Kate Grayson, both on the job and off. Her first important death investigation centers around the puzzling case of a woman found mutilated on a beach. In a case marked by contradictions and confusion, it is up to Kate to uncover the truth. But when she tries to unravel the clues, she learns that things are even more complicated than they first appear. But even that pales when compared to the dilemma she faces when she comes to the aid of a friend. Maggie's husband has disappeared under disturbing and mysterious circumstances and Kate suddenly finds herself caught in the middle of another troubling investigation. One that sweeps her up in a storm of deceit and betrayal and leaves her questioning everything she knows. The terrible secret she eventually uncovers shakes her to the core and threatens to destroy everyone involved.