A champion of regenerative farming is found brutally murdered. An intensive dairying advocate has shot himself in the barn. What is going on in this peaceful rural community?

Lauren Fraser, visiting South Canterbury with a friend, begins to unravel the tangle of criminal activity and puts herself in danger. Ro Wisbech, who is nearby researching high country farming aristocracy, uncovers family secrets that spill over into the investigation. She also feels at risk. Lauren’s emotional entanglement with the new district commander of police doesn’t help matters. Through the heart of the story flows the braided river, the sacred awa that gives life and prosperity to the region. But the river is ailing. Are intensive farming and the grab for water the culprits? Can solving these crimes shock the community into restoring its majesty?