Ella Clah is no longer an unsure young woman recently returned to the Navajo Reservation from a stint with the FBI; she has found her place in her tribe, her clan, and her family. She has seen the Diné at their worst—and at their best—as they balance the modern era with the traditional Navajo way of life.

Ervin Benally, son-in-law of the powerful Navajo businesswoman and politician Abigail Yellowhair, plans to bring satellite telephone service to the Rez. When Benally is attacked and another man is killed, Yellowhair orders Navajo Police Special Investigator Ella Clah assigned to the case. Ella is determined to find out who is behind the attacks, which include elements of Navajo witchcraft.