On the sudden death of her Uncle Henry, Hannah inherits Mandlake House, isolated on an island, situated off the coast of the fishing village of Trecoran. She discovers that Henry has been researching the family history, a story of smuggling and violence involving the Durrants and the Watkins family, who own The Whistleblower, a pub on the beach of Trecoran. From Henry's notes, she discerns that he believes someone is still using the cellar and the passageway leading to a cove on the lee of the island for illicit purposes. Investigations into the family history uncover facts that affect the present, and it appears Henry's death was not an accident. However, some of his paperwork is missing. Hannah renews her friendship with Beth Watkins, and together they search for clues. Paul, her brother and a childhood friend, is a dark, moody character and has caused Hannah uneasiness on many occasions. Now, he appears anxious to help. But has he outgrown his obsession with her? Are the Watkins family her friends or are they hiding secrets too? Hannah spent school holidays at Mandlake and formed a close friendship with James, Henry's son. Hannah, aware that James is her cousin, has tried to control the forbidden feelings she has for him. James has disappeared and the solicitor is trying, unsuccessfully, to trace him to complete probate, and also to solve the mystery of a codicil that Henry made immediately before his death for: my home on the island to be left to Sofia. Who is Sofia? And which island? Hannah is disturbed by noises at night and, on venturing into the cellar, she discovers the trapdoor to the passage has been recently used, which confirms her uncle's suspicions of intruders. As the treacherous past becomes entangled with the present, Hannah is determined to uncover the truth. Who is using the old smugglers passage from the cellar and invading her privacy? Was her uncle's death an accident? Who is Sofia, who is left the legacy in Henry's will? With revelations comes danger and confrontation. Hannah finds she is unable to trust anyone, even those closest to her, as her quest for answers leads her on travels in England and abroad.