In this prequel to Pricking of my Thumbs, adventurous carpenter Wesley Whitestone finds herself on the Mexican border, following one of the mysterious 'messages' she receives. She's not sure why here or what, but soon realizes it's to help a brilliant Hispanic girl, a drug/human trafficking kingpin's live-in assistant, escape actual slavery. Not Wesley's job description, but a seemingly bumbling deputy sheriff (undercover Federal agent), enters the picture, and the two team up. What follows is a series of dangerous escapes, dark discoveries, and some genuine friendships. This is Wesley at her best, beginning with college graduation and leading her on cliff-edge experiences, coloring way outside the lines.