Ruth Harris, Sheriff Ike Schwartz's fiancée, is involved in a near-fatal automobile accident. But Ike is convinced the crash was rigged. Even though he is embroiled in a close election, has no jurisdiction over the investigation, and can find no support in the usual law enforcement community, he places himself on leave and goes rogue to investigate and seek the person or persons responsible for putting Ruth in a coma.

His efforts attract help from unexpected and irregular sources. Old friends in the covert community step up, and his loyal staff in Picketsville provide undercover assistance. The journey leads him to states' rights organizations and then to several zealots and dissident academics before it finally ends at home in Picketsville.