When writer James McCarthy is asked to be the godfather of his brother Donny's soon to be born child, he turns to his trusted mentor Nestor Yazzi for spiritual guidance. The Deputy Sheriff agrees to help . . . for a price. In exchange, James agrees to work on a cold case that has haunted the lawman for fourteen years.

Nestor's best friend, Virgil Deschene, disappeared into the mountains of central Arizona while prospecting, leaving nothing behind but a tractor and a few hand tools. Despite Nestor's best efforts and the help of countless investigator, no clue to Virgil's whereabouts has ever been found. Though James is not a trained detective, Nestor feels the young writer might have the knowledge and skills to break the case wide open.

Armed with little more than his wits and a box of old files and photos, James attempts to locate Nestor's missing friend. He applies his unique perspective on problem solving, as well as some new technology, to the investigation.

With the help of Missy, Will, and the ever-present voice of Josh McDaniel in his head, will he succeed in his quest, or fail to hold up his end of the bargain and let his mentor down?