Detective Inspector Vanessa Fiske has recently arrived in Aberdeen from the Metropolitan Police, which she left because of an affair with a royal aide while on royal protection. She has formed a close partnership with Detective Sergeant Colin MacNee. A skeleton, more than fifty years old, is found by a hillwalker close to Balmoral Castle, the Scottish residence of the British royal family. Fiske and MacNee investigate and their enquiries involve the royal household, UK-Scotland political sensitivities, the blackmail of police officer by a reporter, historic crimes, emigration to Canada and international collaboration between police forces. Vanessa Fiske, as the senior investigating officer, demonstrates determination and tenacity to establish her reputation in North East Constabulary.