Phil Gibson is back at it again, chasing a teaching and coaching position, this time in a staid, tony town in the East Bay hills outside of Oakland. The young educator is looking for stability and security in his life, but instead unknowingly becomes entwined in threatening plots of a secretive modern militia group that does not shy away from kidnapping, extortion, and murder. The co-workers at the new school seem aloof and untrusting. His coaching colleague is wary of him. Basketball referees seem not to like him either. The school appears rampant with sexual harassment and an aversion to newcomers like Phil. His only solace seems to be found in a local pub, The Kingfish. With assistance and sometimes guidance from his always interesting students, Phil tries to adjust to a complicated environment. He has a target on his back and is forced to face some big life changes. This is the second in the series of Phil Gibson mystery thrillers.