"Everyone in my family has killed someone. Some of us, the high achievers, have killed more than once. I'm not trying to be dramatic, but it is the truth. Some of us are good, others are bad, and some just unfortunate. I'm Ernest Cunningham. Call me Ern or Ernie. I wish I'd killed whoever decided our family reunion should be at a ski resort, but it's a little more complicated than that. Have I killed someone? Yes. I have. Who was it? Let's get started"-- Provided by publisher.

Ernie Cunningham's brother is being released from prison for murder, and the family is gathering at a remote mountain resort to welcome him home. Since Ern is the one who witnessed the murder-- and turned his brother in to the police-- he's a bit reluctant to attend. The day before Ern's brother is due, a body is found frozen on the slopes. His airways are clogged with ash... in a pristine snowfield... without a single burn mark on him. The local policeman is overwhelmed, and Ern decides it's up to him to find the murderer. After all, he comes from a notorious crime family, and everyone member has killed someone. Including Ern. -- adapted from jacket