In England’s New Forest, wild ponies roam the winter heath — and beneath the ancient, towering pines, one family’s secrets are beginning to surface.

Eleven months ago, Detective Elinor Saxby left Birmingham for a fresh start. A quieter posting. A new team. A chance to prove herself.

Then her boss sends her to the woodland funeral of his old friend. Respected scientist Philip died in hospital of natural causes. Everyone says so. Except his daughter.

Now Philip’s daughter-in-law comes to Elinor with an even more disturbing story. Before he died, Philip was frightened. He believed someone was threatening him.

And she has proof. A blood-stained arrow, found in Philip’s locker. 

He claimed it merely scratched him during archery practice. An accident.

So why did he keep it?

Three days later, Philip’s widow is found murdered on a forest path — shot through the chest with an arrow. 

Suddenly Philip’s death doesn’t seem so simple.

Two deaths. One family. Someone in the New Forest knows exactly what secrets the couple took to their graves — and they’ll do anything to stop Elinor from learning the truth.

Perfect for fans of Ann Cleeves, Elly Griffiths, Stig Abell and Carol Cole.