The good folk of Perpetuity Valley, Wyoming, have a secret. These modern-day citizens aren't just descended from the original settlers -- they actually are the original settlers. They trekked here by wagon train in 1846, and for some mysterious reason, none of them has aged a day since. Of course, if word ever gets out about a miracle like this, the valley might get a wee bit crowded. So about a hundred years ago the townsfolk agreed to keep the secret to themselves and never allow any property to change hands.

But somebody at city hall has screwed up. Seems Phil and Carol Hodworth, from Chicago, have somehow inherited the town's Chinese restaurant, a greasy little joint called Shangri-La Gardens. Phil hates the place, but Carol wants to give the business a try. She thinks Perpetuity Valley will be a nice place to raise their two kids.

Big mistake.

Phil and Carol learn they have moved into the rudest, most unwelcoming town in America. And yet Phil will soon threaten murder to save it.