[close] is the weeks before Christmas in Upper Peninsula, Michigan, and some big events indeed are stirring for Lakota Deputy Sheriff Steve Martinez. The normally sleepy woodland town is uncharacteristically alive with activity after the body of one of its most respected residents, Paul Passoja, is found at a forest campsite, apparently the victim of a bear attack. From the moment he arrives on the crime scene, things just don't add up for Steve Martinez. Why would Passoja, a skilled camper and hunter, be careless enough to scatter bacon grease near his tent? Lead by curiosity, Steve begins an unofficial investigation of the mishap, only to discover that the 'random' animal attack might not be so random after all. It seems that quite a few people in town had reason to do in Paul Passoja, but the evidence isn't pointing to anyone in particular. The more Steve investigates, the deeper he sinks into a mystery as old as the town itself. The seemingly peaceful forest haven was once a hotbed of treachery, and ill will only ripens with age. As he gets closer to the murderer, Steve learns the hard way that whoever killed Paul Passoja is more than willing to do it again. But Steve Martinez's Native American ancestors were never ones to fold and neither is he. Amidst the life and death struggles in the northwoods-man against man, man against nature, man against himself-Steve and his fianc will find love and holiday joy and learn the true meaning of Christmas. Here is a seasonal mystery, as poignant as A Christmas Carol, as insightful as The Gift of the Magi. [close]