They acquired acquaintances in the village and, when they decided to return a year later, hoped to renew their friendships with the villagers. However, it soon becomes clear that things have markedly changed. Villagers that once treated them with kindness and civility are cold and suspicious. The IRA has begun infiltrating the smaller villages, including Ballymuroe. But most upsetting to the Milnes is the disappearance of a woman and her daughter who were their particular friends.
Strange things begin to happen as they investigate their friends' disappearance.
A blue Volvo starts trailing them across the countryside. Touristy spots become unfriendly to outsiders. Ravens attack them as they sightsee. Clues appear here and there, only to lead to more mysteries. The Milnes find themselves wary of anyone they encounter.