Merrin McKenzie's return to her hometown of St Ives has been a fresh start all round. Putting aside her legal career, she's determined to give her all to the new artists' cooperative shop on vibrant Fore Street. There's also the tantalising prospect of something more than friendship with Chief Inspector Louis Peppiatt.

When the glamorous and wealthy Roxy sails into St Ives, Merrin hopes she can cultivate a valuable customer for the shop. Roxy certainly leaves an impression on everyone she meets, but her stories don't always add up. And in her wake disappearances accumulate and bodies begin to surface.

As rumours stir, it becomes clear that Roxy harbours secrets in contrast to her glittering façade. Behind it Merrin will find a tangle of secrets including family tensions, hidden loyalties, and dangers that reach far beyond the dramatic Cornish coastline.