In a sea-cave on Lovatt Island, just off the west coast of
Scotland, a skeleton is found shackled to the rocks. Although the
apparent victim of a crime of unparalleled brutality, the skeleton
seems to belong firmly in the past. Detective Inspector Marjory
Fleming, called in to investigate, anticipates a straightforward
case unhampered by the pressures of time. But when a modern watch is
discovered on the skeleton's wrist, Fleming realises the crime may
be far closer to home than she initially assumed.
Meanwhile, in the nearby village of Innellan, mysterious events
begin to occur. Matt Lovatt, eponymous owner of the island, is at
the centre of a series of escalating crimes - could someone be
targeting him? The villagers, members of a small and introverted
community, are little help - many seem damaged by their own
enigmatic pasts, and all are reluctant to speak out. Fleming,
sensing a pattern she cannot clearly make out, becomes increasingly
desperate to prevent more violence. Are the skeleton and the current
spate of crimes connected? If so, what evil act could have motivated
such a deadly, merciless design?
'Loved it. She has become the crime czar of the Scottish small town!'
Val McDermid 'Vivid characterisation, excellent description and a
horribly looming sense of inevitability ... a riveting read.' The
Guardian 'Aline Templeton has demonstrated that, just when we thought
Scotland was saturated with detectives, a strong woman can elbow her way
in and find a unique niche.' The Scotsman
