Charismatic minister King Avery persuades state and federal authorities to split North Carolina into two states. He calls his Westcarolina “the first Christian state,” one he will stamp with his own beliefs.

The Charlotte Press hires high-profile Texas reporter Annie Price to investigate Avery, his new state, and his God’s Gift Church. The minister, in his new role as governor of Westcarolina, attempts a variety of bizarre changes. The first one would banish Wiccans (witches) from the Christian state, a move that exposes them to potential danger. He also hires Rob Ryland, a ruthless secessionist whom Annie has reason to hate. Gradually, Avery and Ryland attempt to take away other personal freedoms that don’t fit with their evangelical beliefs or desire to make more money.

Annie's love life takes a dramatic turn, even as circumstances conspire to bring her and Avery together. Though he knows Annie is likely the one person who can bring down his empire, he increasingly seeks out her company and advice.

An abortion-related bombing from Avery’s past comes back to haunt him, leading to secret plots and a string of killings. Westcarolina, Camelot to the true believers and a prison to other Westcarolina residents, is put in jeopardy by a crescendo of violence.