The year is 1536. Lawyer Matthew Shardlake finds his life turned upside down when Thomas Cromwell sends him to investigate a suspicious death at the remote monastery of Scarnsea. Deception, deceit, and corruption are rife as it soon becomes clear that the murder is not the first. Shardlake is drawn into a web of lies that threatens not only his integrity but his life.
Shardlake feels the wrath of Cromwell, but he returns in hope that he may finally unravel the truth.
Another death leads Shardlake to a gruesome discovery, changing the course of the investigation.
Shardlake hears a shocking allegation that incriminates Cromwell, and could put himself in danger.
Shardlake travels to Scarnsea to begin his investigation into a brutal murder at a remote monastery.