Synopsis
“When bones are unearthed at the foot of a north Norfolk cliff, forensics expert Dr. Ruth Galloway and DCI Nelson are put on the case. The skeletons have lain there for decades, possibly since the Second World War, and for all that time a hideous crime as been concealed. When a body washes up on the beach, it becomes clear that someone wants the truth of the past to stay buried, and will go to any lengths to keep it that way. Can Ruth and Nelson uncover the truth in time to stop another murder?”
-Synopsis from back cover
Review
*light spoilers ahead*
This book is another fantastic installment in the Ruth Galloway series. So much is going on in Ruth’s personal life which I found equally compelling as the unique mystery that she and Nelson work to unravel.
The discovery of the bodies on the beach was shocking to say the least as its usually just one set of bones that is found. Some clues nearby start to give a picture of who these people were, and soon Ruth is able to determine the time period in which they lived. There is a lot to do with WWII so if that is of interest to you, you will definitely appreciate many aspects of this story.
I loved how the surrounding natural landscape was so closely tied to this story; the bones would have never been found if not for the erosion of the rock on the cliff’s edge. As always, I feel I learned so much about archeology while reading this story. Ruth is such a patient and kind character and the perfect person for this role.
I will be very curious to see where Ruth’s personal life leads in the next book. I have no idea how she is managing to keep her secret and judging by the final pages of this story, certain people are beginning to guess what it may be. How exciting! I may have to pick up book four sooner than planned because I can’t wait to know what happens.
Hannah's Library 