Paisley Mott struggles with anxiety. Her particular blend of anxiety causes her to go into a hyper-focused state, which can lead to more anxiety. After the tragic death of her mother, she began to see her anxiety-induced hyper-focus as a strength. Now, she's a paranormal investigator with an up-and-coming web series that is propelling her into becoming an expert in her field. 

Hollis Grimm is a charismatic preacher from the small Appalachian mining town of Grey Water Ridge. When he contacts Paisley to help shine some light on the mysterious mutilation of seven women in the woods outside of town, she is on the first flight out. It wasn't the murders that drew her to the South or the charming preacher, but the claim that the locals believe God has sent a creature to punish the town for its sins. And that this isn't the first time. 

The preacher, an outsider turned sheriff, an heiress and internet celebrity, a man obsessed with the past, an old-timer with an ax to grind, an obsessed fan, and a growing number of bodies stand between Paisley and the truth. After digging into the dark secrets of the town’s history she must decide what is more dangerous, the monster in the woods, or the people who believe in him. If she isn't careful, she will not be leaving Grey Water Ridge with the story, let alone her life.