In the quiet Cumbrian village of Culchet, dark secrets lurk beneath the surface . . . When June Milburn’s body is discovered in the cellar of an abandoned house, what initially appears to be a tragic accident quickly reveals itself as something far more sinister. Detective Sergeant Blake and his partner delve into the investigation and discover that this peaceful community harbours dangerous mysteries. The village is soon rocked by a series of even more disturbing events—a child vanishes without a trace, an historic manor burns to the ground and a young boy is found murdered in the most unlikely of places. With each new development, the web of deceit tightens around Culchet’s residents. Crime editor Alice Potter finds herself unwittingly drawn into the investigation. As connections between the seemingly unrelated incidents begin to emerge, she starts to wonder if her neighbours are really who they claim to be. Alliances shift and motives blur as the detectives race to uncover the truth. Everyone has something to hide in Culchet—and someone is willing to kill to keep their secrets buried. Perfect for fans of MS Morris, Joy Ellis, L.J. Ross, Louise Penny and Ann Cleeves. Praise for Gwen Moffat 'One of the crime shelf’s defter hands.' Guardian 'Gwen Moffat creates vivid characters and not only manages a fast-moving, well-patterned plot, but also shows an aptitude for brilliant atmospheric set pieces.' Daily Mail