Dave Robicheaux, Burke’s longtime Louisiana detective, investigates the murder of Amanda Boudreau, who was raped and killed.
 
A small-time hustler named Tee Bobby Hulin has his fingerprints on the crime scene, but Robicheaux believes he may be innocent.
 
When Tee Bobby is released on bail, Robicheaux uncovers a second murder.
 
The investigation reveals a deep, tangled backstory: Tee Bobby’s grandmother was involved with the family of another key figure (Perry LaSalle), and the roots of the crime stretch far into the past — hinting that Amanda’s death is connected to old secrets.