In the early morning a couple out walking is horrified to discover the body of a woman impaled on a fence surrounding the prestigious Harding Memorial. Is it murder? Who could it be? The city of Marion, Ohio is abuzz with conjectures but answers are not readily forthcoming. Eventually it is learned that the dead woman was a notorious judge in Columbus, Ohio. But why did she die? Who could have hoisted her body onto the fence? Attorney Jessica F. Woods, her brother Robbie, and her husband Dr. Ken Halberstrom reflect on their involvement with the deceased Susan Dial. A former sweetheart appears and an inmate escapes from prison to muddle Jessica's life. Another man who got away with the murder of a young waitress years ago returns to town seeking revenge. Events at the men's golf invitational at River Tree Country Club might begin to provide resolutions.