It’s with mixed motives that Karen Slocombe’s cousin Penn pays her a visit. Not only does Penn want to renew contact with a relative, but she is also looking for help with the disappearance of Justine, another cousin. Drew Slocombe’s reputation for unraveling mysteries is widespread and Penn hopes he and Karen can be of assistance.

Justine’s mother, Roma Millan, claims to be unconcerned at her daughter’s disappearance. Roma’s husband, Laurie, however, believes otherwise, although he is not aware of the family secrets that led to a five-year estrangement between Roma and Justine. Drew and his business partner, Maggs, enter into the investigation with scant enthusiasm at first. However, when they encounter Detective Sergeant Den Cooper, feelings become considerably stronger.