Merrin McKenzie has returned to her hometown of St Ives, putting tragedy behind her. She has settled into a busy but peaceful life with a lovely cottage and some fulfilling pro bono legal work. New friendships, including with Chief Inspector Louis Peppiatt, are also beginning to blossom in the unfolding spring season. When Merrin takes a call from Jane, a friend going through a messy divorce, Merrin wants to help in any way she can, which leads to her taking in Jane's teenage daughter, Emily. But then Emily disappears. When a ransom demand is made for the girl's safe return, matters take a distinctly sinister turn. Can Merrin restore the shattered tranquillity of the stunning Cornish coastline?