When the largest chemical manufacturing company in the U.S. moves from the Houston/ Galveston area to Mexico, the people left behind are jobless and angry. Appleton Smith, award-winning, investigative reporter for Houston's largest daily newspaper, is on the scene when a body, dressed in a business suit, is pulled from Galveston Bay by a local shrimp boat. The victim had a briefcase full of money attached to his wrist. Things go from bad to worse, with murder, assaults, and bribery, including the Galveston County Sheriff. The beautiful Maggie, Galveston Deputy Inspector, and Apple Smith team up to solve the mischief. A surprise twist makes for an involved plot and interesting page-turner.

The plot will be enjoyed wherever it is read. The storyline could take place anywhere in the country. Most are familiar with the Astrodome and NASA. The five million people in the greater Houston area will recognize the landmarks, streets, and hangouts around which the story unfolds.