In 1989, in peaceful Dryden, New York, a Christmastime massacre claims an entire family. Just when it seems the horror has passed, terror visits Dryden again. With these events, a so-called "curse" will descend on Dryden for ten years.

For thirteen days in winter, the Dryden community searches for a little girl, missing in the blinding snow. Not even the police suspect the horrible truth. Then, three years later, the "curse" of Dryden returns when a love triangle turns to murder.

In 1993, Kirsten Clark reels from the horror of witnessing her friend's murder at the hands of another friend; a year later, football coach Stephen Starr crosses path with his daughter's deranged ex-boyfriend, who stalks the Starr family for months.

As news of the football coach ripples across town, Dryden prays the worst is over. But in September 1996, a month of terror brings the "curse" to a crescendo. Three tragedies will lead outsiders to call Dryden the "Village of the Damned."

In October 1996, Dryden's story reaches its terrifying conclusion when two popular cheerleaders vanish. Town residents have no idea that a twisted sociopath has been living in their midst for years. The events will scar the town forever.