A 50th college reunion in Vermont brings widow, India Earle and her dog, Dutch from their home in Connecticut to the green mountains. As their jeep arrives in the fall foliage, they quickly find themselves in quiet chaos. This embodies murder, witchcraft supported by sinister college protest groups and, as it develops, the mysterious presence of The Green Man, an ancient iconic figure.

Having had a look at this situation over a long weekend, renewing a friendship with a classmate, now a TV executive, discovering a new one with a local restaurant owner, she returns home.

Christmas time back in Connecticut is interrupted by a frantic call from her old friend, in need of a stable mind and strong character for help as the Vermont situation disintegrates. Old school ties are strong, and she and Dutch ride to the rescue over the objections of her daughter and Italian son-n-law who has been a strong arm in times past when danger arose.

Back in Vermont a number of community leaders have been murdered. Vermonters are confused and depressed. The Green Man is periodically sited, college officials are at a loss. And as fear and confusion grows, India joins forces with a small group including an opinionated motel maid named Ernestine.

India has a sturdy prayer life and the fearful Vermonters are backed by appearing and disappearing angels, more than a match for the Green Man. They are also joined by India's intrepid son-in-law. Quiet social comment run-through a tale of blood and other scary stuff.