The idyllic society of Larchfield is shaken when Angus Russell—the wealthiest and most powerful member of the community—is found dead in his mansion on Harrow Hill. A preliminary DNA analysis from the crime scene points to Billy Tate, the local bad boy whose hatred for Russell was known to all.

However, Billy was killed by falling from the roof of the local church the day before the murder. No one can dispute the coroner's report that confirmed it. But when the police rush to the morgue, they discover that Billy's coffin has been broken open from the inside and his body is missing.

A series of murders follows, and as the community's cohesion is tested, gun sales skyrocket. Conspiracy theories and superstitions spread. The once quiet town turns into a magnet for those seeking adventure: zombie hunters, TV producers, and doomsday preachers announcing the end of the world.

Gurney has to deal with much more than a murder: he must restore order in a town that is collapsing uncontrollably.