Emelia Marston is a puzzle to her family, her friends, and the police. A mastermind of at least one crime that dramatically changes her life, she shares only what information she chooses, and she almost expects that everyone around her does the same. She knows that it is possible to keep secrets in an island community. She also knows that sometimes it is imperative.

Mourning the loss of her husband at sea, she moves from the mainland to Monhegan Island and begins life anew. Comfortable with the artists who are seasonal residents, she also finds it easy to live with those who call the island home year-round. The arrival of three mysterious men, each seeking justice of a kind, threatens to upend her world.