In the fishing community of Fjallbacka, life is peaceful – but foul play was always suspected in the disappearance 20 years ago of two young holidaymakers. Now a young boy has discovered their remains, along with those of a fresh victim. Detective Patrik Hedstrom can only imagine what it is like to lose a child. When a second young girl goes missing, Hedstrom's attention focuses on the Hults, a feuding clan of misfits, religious fanatics and criminals – which of this family's dark secrets will provide the vital clue?