DCI Vera Stanhope investigates the death of Jamie Thorne, a local lad whose body is found wrapped in plastic sheets at a rural teenage hang out. Pathologist Dr. Marcus Summer quickly identifies the cause of death as trauma to the cranium. But with no sign of a weapon, the only clues Vera has to work with are a crucifix found on the body, and ticket stubs for Pevensey's funfair in Jamie's pocket.

A mysterious death of a fisherman is investigated by Vera. The fisherman's sons believe the answer may lie within a long-running feud between their Dad and the owner of a local fish market.