Detective Dave Robicheaux returns to New Iberia, Louisiana, to solve a series of grisly murders in neighboring Jefferson Davis Parish. While the crimes have all the signs of a serial killer, one death doesn't fit. Adding to Robicheaux's troubles is the matter of his daughter, Alafair. Her literary pursuit has led her into the arms of Kermit Abelard. But Robicheaux begins to fear that Alafair might be destroyed by the man she loves.