by Val McDermid
First published 2002
Detective Inspector George Bennett arrives in Scardale, a remote village in Derbyshire's Peak District, to investigate the disappearance of thirteen-year-old Alison Carter. The year is 1963, but Scardale exists outside time, populated by intermarried families named Carter and Lomas who have lived there for centuries. Alison vanished while walking her dog, leaving no trace. Bennett quickly discovers the villagers are closing ranks, protecting secrets he cannot yet fathom. His suspicions center on Alison's stepfather Philip Hawkin, an outsider who married into the community and now serves as the village squire. Alison's cousin Charlie also troubles Bennett, particularly when the boy conveniently discovers crucial evidence. Without a body, Bennett struggles to build his case while other unexplained disappearances in the area complicate his investigation. As he navigates conflicting testimonies and hidden loyalties, Bennett believes he has solved the mystery. But his triumph becomes his burden, forcing him to question not only his methods but his entire career in law enforcement.
Genres: historical-fiction, mystery, crime, detective
Vibes: atmospheric, dark, suspenseful
Tropes: unreliable-narrator
Setting: Scardale, Derbyshire, Peak District
Period: 1963
Audio Cassette · Nova Audio Books