Singing Springs is invaded by mercenary soldiers with orders to re-educate and/or detain dissenters to current government policy. Rose Trusty, a quiet older woman, becomes one of the three main voices of resistance, though she is among the imprisoned. Joshua Morgan, a deputy sheriff, escapes the first round up. As a member of the Watchmen, he battles to free the 600 friends and neighbors being held prisoner. Carmella Miles, a soldier with IAMS, sees the fallacy of the action and joins the townspeople in their struggle.