A call from Stella Hardesty's little sister brings the news that Stella's step-nephew, Chip, has been threatened with bodily harm over gambling debts. Stella makes the drive to Chip's home, only to walk in on a wee-hours dismemberment. Chip and his Russian girlfriend insist the dead body was left on their porch. Suspicious but compelled to help family, Stella tracks down other suspects while dealing with the amorous intentions of BJ Brodersen.