Mystery writer Effie Dalrymple makes a grim discovery when her dog emerges from the bushes with a decomposing finger. The body is soon identified as that of a young journalist researching the history of Lake Erie shore communities. Eager to know the truth, Effie convinces her reclusive new neighbour, Desmond Thomas, to help investigate. Digging into Lake Erie's dark past proves elusive as historical references disappear, bodies pile up, and the killer continues to stay one step ahead of the unlikely duo.