Hurricane Irene has devastated Vermont. Police forces there are working 24/7. Joe Gunther and his team at the Vermont Bureau of Investigation are involved in a series of cases, seemingly unrelated. But are they unrelated?

First: In the wake of the storm of the century an exposed coffin was found at a seventeen year old graveside. The coffin was filled with rocks instead of a corpse. What happened to the body?

Next: Gordon Marshall, retired Senator, one of the founders and now resident of the very upscale senior facility, The Woods, fails to show up for breakfast with his usual cronies.. They gain entry to his apartment and find him dead. Is it from natural causes or could it be murder?

. Also: Bonnie Swift, RN at the Vermont State Hospital, responsible for the care of the mentally ill, is trying to avoid chaos. She is assisting her patients from the rapidly flooding basement.to a dryer floor,above. One of her favorites, a forty year resident of VSH with a perpetually fogged brain, known as "governor", is in a group just ahead. When the door locks malfunction, Carolyn Barber is separated from Bonnie. Carolyn, keeps running, and eventually blunders into the hospital's famed tunnels. Following them she finds herself outside.. What would the "governor" do now that she has finally found freedom?

Police Officer Joe Gunther, is "the every man" protagonist. He is true, solid, caring, thoughtful and a team player. He had me along with him immediately, rooting for him and his dedicated, loyal team to find the answers to these questions. A little romance with the Medical Examiner, Beverly, was an enjoyable add-on. The events took many twists and turns in an exciting chase to discover the secrets behind so many questions. Joe Gunther, our hero, persevered and won.

Archer Mayor is a master story teller. A cop and medical examiner during the appearance of Hurricane Irene in Vermont, Mayor had a front row seat witnessing the disaster. A powerful story that I thoroughly enjoyed with a finish that is sensational. A favorite new author for me to enjoy and investigate further.