When DCI Andy Gilchrist is called to a crime scene on the Old Course of St Andrews to find an amputated hand clutching a note addressed to him, a note that contains only one word – MURDER – he is pulled into an investigation that will test him to the limit.

When more single word clues are found along with other amputated body parts, the murderer’s vengeful intent becomes all too clear. But when someone close to Gilchrist disappears, he realizes he has not acted soon enough. Together with Nance Wilson, the sexy DS with her own agenda, Gilchrist battles on, only to discover that the answer to the present murders lies within the secrets of the past.

Forced to confront his demons, Gilchrist must solve the cryptic clues before the next victim, a woman whose life means more to him than his own, is served up to him piece by slaughtered piece.