There are secrets in the town of Bon Temps, ones that threaten those closest to Sookie, and could destroy her heart ... Sookie Stackhouse finds it easy to turn down the request of former barmaid Arlene when she wants her job back at Merlotte's. After all, Arlene tried to have Sookie killed. But her relationship with Eric Northman is not so clear-cut. He and his vampires are keeping their distance. And a cold silence. Then a shocking murder occurs, and Sookie is arrested.