When V.I. Warshawski returns to her Chicago office, she finds her once tidy work space in ruins. Ripped documents, upended drawers, and framed pictures have been strewn about. The most chilling find, though, is a bracelet belonging to Warshawki's cousin, Petra. With Petra missing, the cops spring into action, labeling the episode as kidnapping, assault, and aggravated burglary. As they investigate, Warshawski wonders if her connection to the Anacondas has put her loved ones in danger.