In its isolated spot on the slopes of a windswept hill, Meadowview House has been vacant for decades. Yet now that it has been earmarked for redevelopment by a wildlife trust, a man turns up claiming it should be part of his inheritance.

After causing a scene, the police intervene but with no evidence, Geoffrey Haynes’ demands are curtly dismissed.

DCI Jack Harris has more than a passing interest in the property. During his errant youth, it was one of the places where he got up to no end of mischief.

But another spanner is thrown in the works when builders uncover the skeleton of a woman under the floorboards.

Now DCI Jack Harris is interested in what Haynes has to say. Yet the veteran cop might have questions to answer of his own.