Two missing boys. A stolen bolt gun. One fatal shot. Three ingredients for murder. When DCI Banks and his team are called to investigate the theft of a tractor from a North Yorkshire village, they're far from enthusiastic about what seems to be a simple case of rural crime. But when a blood stain is found in an abandoned hangar, and two main suspects vanish without a trace, events take a darkly sinister turn. As each lead does little to unravel the mystery, Banks feels as if the case is coming to a dead end. Until a road accident reveals some alarming evidence, thought to be disposed, which throws the investigation to a frightening new level. Someone is trying to cover their tracks - someone with very deadly intent ...