No one has seen reclusive Emma Matheson for years. But when her mummified remains are found in the cellar of a property in Birmingham during a renovation, the chilling discovery raises more questions than answers.

Forensic psychologist Professor Teigan 'Tig' Craft from Central University is called in to assist DCI Steve Thompson's team with the investigation, and her shrewd observations on her first police case quickly profile a ruthlessly efficient killer. So ruthless they have struck more than once? As Teigan uncovers a number of cold murder cases involving young women linked by geography and time to Emma's terrible fate, Thompson is unconvinced by her theories and unconventional style. Can they learn to work together to catch a serial killer before another tragedy strikes?