The disappearance of a young Arkansas boy and his sister in 1980 triggers vivid memories and enduring questions for retired detective Wayne Hays who worked the case 35 years ago with his then-partner Roland West.

Hays looks back at the aftermath of the 1980 Purcell case, including possible evidence left behind at an outdoor hangout for local kids. As attention focuses on two conspicuous suspects, the parents of the missing kids receive a cryptic note from an anonymous source.

Hays recalls his early romance with Amelia, as well as some cracks in their relationship that surfaced after they married and had children. Ten years after the Purcell crimes took place, new evidence gives Hays a second chance to vindicate himself and the investigation.

Hays and West see a possible connection between the local church and the Purcell crimes. As the detectives search for one suspect and round up another one for interrogation, Woodard finds himself targeted by a vigilante group.

Wayne finds himself in a no-win situation as new clues emerge in the Purcell case. Roland wrestles with how to keep evidence secure as lawyers demand a new investigation. Amelia finds her relationship with Wayne imperilled by her writing aspirations and his jealousy.

Wayne and Roland revisit discrepancies in the Purcell case that have been hidden or forgotten over the years. Among those being re-evaluated is Tom Purcell, as well as Lucy Purcell's cousin Dan. The glitter of Amelia's book release is tarnished by a voice from the past.

Following up on new leads, Wayne and Roland track down a man who left the police force in the midst of the Purcell investigation. Meanwhile, Amelia visits Lucy Purcell's best friend in hopes of gaining insights into the whereabouts of the mysterious one-eyed man.

Wayne struggles to hold on to his memories, and his grip on reality, as the truth behind the Purcell case is finally revealed.