After a young archaeologist uncovers a set of human remains, the island settlers are intrigued. Is it an ancient find – or a more contemporary mystery?

Then, in the middle of the night, an elderly woman is shot dead. It appears to be a tragic accident, but Jimmy Perez is called to investigate.

The sparse landscape and the emptiness of the sea have bred a fierce and secretive people. As Jimmy looks to the islanders for answers, he finds instead two feuding families whose envy, greed and bitterness have lasted generations. To solve the crime – and prevent further bloodshed – Perez must ask questions that some on the island do not want to be asked . . .