In an untouched corner of Craynebrook, the lifeless body of a local farmer is found, his blood mingling with the mud of Blackbird Farm. For Detective Inspector Matthew Stannard, still nursing wounds from a brutal assault, this grisly scene marks the beginning of an investigation unlike any he's worked on before.
As Matthew begins to unravel the clues, he finds himself caught up in a web of denials. Troubled by doubts, and grappling with his own physical and mental frailty, Matthew knows he needs all his wits about him if he's to see through the lies and uncover the truth.
But as the investigation deepens, danger surrounds him. Matthew is being hunted by his elusive assailant and is forced to defend himself against an official complaint that threatens to destroy his reputation and put an end to his career.
With danger lurking at every turn and enemies closing in on all sides, Matthew must battle to unmask the killer and restore his reputation before it's too late.
Book 3 in the DI Matthew Stannard historical murder mystery series.