Bridget Whitlock is determined to discover who was responsible for her husband's death, but instead of hiring a private investigator, she becomes her own undercover agent. She becomes acquainted with her husband's colleagues and explores the possible motives for his death. As a limnologist, Bridget has a strong bond to the outdoors and as a scientist, she has a keen ability to make close observations. The story takes place along the shores of Lake Michigan and Boston and includes a kayak trip along Maine's Allagash wilderness. Bridget's new-found friend, Evan Banks, turns out to be a major source of inspiration (and a man who knits). There are 8 nautically themed knitting and crochet patterns featured in the story.