On January 30, 2005, the small, quiet communities surrounding Reelfoot Lake in northwest Tennessee awaken to the gruesome double murders of a drug dealer and a respected businesswoman. With no apparent motive or connection between the two victims, the only hope the police have is an anonymous tip pointing to local guides Todd and Sam Baskin, whose prior criminal history makes them fast and easy targets for suspicion.

Veteran Judge Jim Gordon presides over the sensational trial and watches as the state endeavors to turn one brother against the other, determined to seek the death penalty. While the evidence looks convincing, the judge can’t shake the feeling that something isn’t quite right.

When the truth finally rears its head after ten long years, the retired Gordon faces a decision: to keep the secret and preserve his distinguished track record or own up to the mistake of a lifetime.