Tony Hill and the police search for a serial killer who has resurfaced after five years time and targets children from abusive homes. DCI Jordan is in hospital after being mugged and hit by a car.

Tony Hill works with the police to solve the murder of the Johnsons, who were butchered in their flat. When a second victim, Sarah Maynard, is similarly killed they realize they have a serial killer on their hands. William MacAdam, a one-time killer is now one of Tony's students and these new murders are very similar to the ones he committed 30 years ago. He was released from prison as he was considered rehabilitated and has lost the use of both hands due to severe arthritis. Tony is convinced that MacAdam is their man, but he is quite shrewd and it will be very ...