The quest for the truth is a theme that runs throughout the novel. As a mystery, a key plot development focuses on revealing the identity of the dead body appearing at the lodge and discovering who is responsible for the death and why. This incident is connected to the larger conflicts and concealed truths that define and shape the Cunningham family.

Initially, the instigating event that sets the conflict in motion is the killing of Alan Holton. During the years leading up to the present day of the novel, Ernie did not know why Michael killed Holton or what brought them together. When Michael is quickly accused of killing the unidentified man at the lodge, Ernie sets out to untangle the truth of Alan Holton’s death. Importantly, this truth proves to be complex and difficult to discern. Further, it is bound up in the death of Ernie’s father, and the extent of his father’s criminal involvement—including acting as a go-between for police and a criminal ring of child kidnappers—is necessary for piecing together Michael’s actions.

Importantly, the unraveling of the mystery is not merely to satisfy the curiosity of Ernie and the others present. In piecing together the facts, Ernie gains a deeper understanding of each of his family members and of their motives and inner struggles.