Understandably, there are many conservationists who would do anything to prevent twentieth-century machinery destroying Mesa Verde’s archaeological treasure trove. And Anna is hardly surprised when she finds that the construction team’s equipment has been sabotaged.
In an atmosphere of increasing hysteria, Anna finds solace in the company of Stacy Meyers - a fellow part ranger of whom, despite his marital status, she is growing increasingly fond. Then early one morning Stacy’s body is found curled up in an ancient fire pit, his shoes placed neatly beside him. Anna knows this is no accidental death. And for Stacy’s sake and for her own sanity, she is determined to root out the murderer in their midst.