Fifteen-year-old Billy Davies is found dead in his father's shed. A pair of gardening shears thrust brutally into his chest. DI Hillary Greene tries to get to the bottom of this baffling crime. How had Billy come into contact with such a vicious killer? Who wanted him dead and why? The investigation reveals that the teenager was not such an innocent young man.

Meanwhile, Hillary's having a tough time at work. She's been passed over for promotion, and her reliable constable Tommy Lynch is to be transferred out. But Hillary won't let distractions get in the way of solving crimes. To catch this killer, Hillary will need to dig deep into the dark secrets of a small community.

This is a crime mystery full of well-observed characters, which will have you gripped from start to finish.