Civilian test pilot Steve Wagner is a national hero, but not everyone admires him. His old flame, Joanne Raphelson, is about to publish a tell-all book that details the abuse she endured during their relationship. Wagner can't let Joanne's story get out, so he pays her a visit. He makes her one of his signature drinks, a "Spacewalk," and adds a little something extra: a powerful dose of barbiturates. When her housekeeper arrives the following week, she finds Joanne hanging from the ceiling with a noose around her neck. Captain Stottlemeyer, Lieutenant Disher, Monk and Natalie go to Joanne's house to investigate. It appears to be suicide, but the captain and Monk spot some clues that point to murder.