In August 1898, James Hogan celebrates his birthday by accompanying his uncle Septemus on a trip to an agricultural fair. But from the beginning it becomes apparent to young James that his uncle has other plans in mind. This is to be a journey of revenge against the three men who killed Septemus's daughter Clarice during a bank hold-up. After eliminating one of the men, Septemus has the other two, as well as Sheriff Dodd, on his tail. James witnesses his uncle plunge deep into despair and madness, while encountering more than his share of gunslingers, executioners and ladies of the night, in this taut, powerful tale of grief, vengeance and coming of age.