Winter has set in, but young Eddie Bolton will never see another snowfall in Duluth, Minnesota. Someone has killed him in what should have been a secure juvenile detox ward at the Benton Dowling Center. Police Officer Leona “Leo” Reese is working temporarily as a state investigator of fraud and licensing infractions, but has been out of commission due to surgery. On her first week back on the job, she is faced with the aftermath of the 17-year-old’s death. Working with the local police, Leo discovers precious little evidence and far too few people with motives for the killing. As she uncovers long-buried secrets, someone else is murdered, and Leo realizes that she, too, is in danger. In the midst of her own emotional turmoil, is Leo strong enough and smart enough to confront and catch a clever and ruthless murderer?