Plot:

The Cairn follows DI Zoe Finch as she investigates the murder of Laurence Eversholt during a fell race in the Lake District. The investigation uncovers links to organized crime and human trafficking, while Zoe deals with personal and professional challenges.

The Crime:

Laurence Eversholt is found dead at the Great Borne Fell Race. Initially thought to be an accident, forensic evidence reveals he was murdered with a metal bar. The investigation focuses on several suspects, including Dean Somerville, owner of Hair by Dee salons, and Susan Masters, a former race organizer with a grudge against Laurence. Zoe and her team uncover evidence of human trafficking connected to Somerville's salons. The investigation also reveals that Susan Masters witnessed the murder and attempted to blackmail Somerville.

Sub Plots:

1. PC Roddy Chen is severely injured in an unrelated incident. DI Alan Markin investigates, but the case becomes complicated when the prime suspect dies of an apparent overdose.
2. Kay Holinshed, a civilian employee, disappears from the team. Zoe later learns Kay is under investigation by Professional Standards for accessing confidential information.
3. Zoe harbors a trafficking victim, Elena Marin, in her home, straining her relationship with her partner Carl.

Main characters:

1. DI Zoe Finch
2. DS Aaron Keyes
3. DC Nina Kapoor
4. DC Tom Willis
5. Dean Somerville
6. Susan Masters
7. Maya Priest
8. Carl Whaley

Relationship development:

• Zoe and Carl: Their relationship becomes strained due to Zoe hiding Elena in their home.
• Tom and Harriett Barnes: Tom struggles with their recent breakup throughout the investigation.
• Aaron and Serge: Their marriage faces challenges due to work pressures and communication issues.
• Zoe and her team: Trust develops as they work together on the case, despite occasional conflicts.

Police Corruption and Organised Crime investigation:

Zoe uncovers evidence linking Dean Somerville's human trafficking operation to Myron Carter, a local crime boss. She discovers a complex financial network involving shell companies and offshore accounts. Zoe suspects DI Ralph Streeting of corruption due to his attempts to take over the case. Her former corrupt boss, David Randle, contacts her with information about Carter's operations. Zoe begins to build a case against Carter using financial records and potential witnesses, including former Jenson & Marley employees Ryan Tobin and Fatima Coutts-Brennand.

DI Zoe Finch:

Introduction:
DI Zoe Finch serves as the protagonist and lead investigator in the Cumbria Constabulary's Criminal Investigation Department.

Overview:
Zoe Finch demonstrates exceptional analytical skills and a strong sense of justice. She excels at unraveling complex financial crimes and corruption cases. Her background in Birmingham's police force informs her approach to investigations in Cumbria.

Background:
Zoe previously worked as a detective in Birmingham, where she solved the high-profile Canary case involving organized crime. This case led to her promotion to Detective Inspector. She moved to Cumbria approximately eight months before the events of the current novel, bringing her expertise in financial crimes and corruption investigations to her new role.

Role in this Story:
In the current novel, Zoe leads the investigation into the murder of Laurence Eversholt during a fell race. She uncovers a connection between the murder and a human trafficking operation run by Dean Somerville. As she delves deeper, Zoe discovers links to organized crime boss Myron Carter and potential police corruption. She also harbors Elena Marin, a trafficking victim, in her home while building a case against Carter's criminal network.

Basic details:

• Name: Zoe Finch
• Age: Late 30s to early 40s (exact age not specified)
• Place of Birth: Not specified (likely Birmingham area)
• Current Residence: Whitehaven, Cumbria
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: University educated (implied)
• Occupation: Detective Inspector
• Income Level: Middle-class professional
• Relationship Status: In a relationship with Carl Whaley
• Car they drive: Green Mini

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Tall (exact height not specified)
• Build: Fit and athletic (practices karate)
• Skin colour: Not specified
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Not specified
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments or injuries: Suffers a shoulder injury during confrontation with Dean Somerville

DS Aaron Keyes:

Introduction:
DS Aaron Keyes is a fictional detective sergeant in the Cumbria Crime novel series. He serves as a key member of DI Zoe Finch's team in the Cumbria Constabulary's Criminal Investigation Department.

Overview:
Aaron Keyes demonstrates strong investigative skills and a deep commitment to his work. He excels at building relationships with informants and conducting undercover operations. Aaron balances his professional life with personal challenges, including his marriage to Serge.

Background:
Aaron grew up in Cumbria, giving him local knowledge and connections that prove valuable in investigations. He has worked his way up through the ranks of the Cumbria Constabulary, earning respect from his colleagues and superiors.

Role in this Story:
In the current novel, Aaron plays a crucial role in the investigation of Laurence Eversholt's murder. He conducts key interviews, including those with Harry Patel and Susan Masters. Aaron also pursues a separate investigation into local crime boss Myron Carter, cultivating informants like Victor Parlick. He struggles to balance his work commitments with his personal life, particularly his relationship with his husband, Serge.

Basic details:

• Name: Aaron Keyes
• Age: Mid to late 30s (exact age not specified)
• Place of Birth: Cumbria (specific location not mentioned)
• Current Residence: Whitehaven, Cumbria
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Police training (specific level not mentioned)
• Occupation: Detective Sergeant
• Income Level: Middle-class professional
• Relationship Status: Married to Serge
• Car they drive: Volvo

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Not specified
• Weight: Not specified
• Build: Not specified
• Skin colour: Dark (described as having "dark skin")
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Not specified
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments or injuries: None mentioned

DC Nina Kapoor:

Introduction:
DC Nina Kapoor is a fictional detective constable in the Cumbria Crime novel series. She serves as a key member of DI Zoe Finch's team in the Cumbria Constabulary's Criminal Investigation Department.

Overview:
Nina Kapoor demonstrates a passionate and driven approach to police work. She excels at interrogation and shows a keen eye for detail. Nina often expresses frustration with bureaucracy and exhibits a strong desire for justice, particularly for victims of violent crimes.

Background:
Nina previously worked in uniform before joining CID. She grew up in Barrow-in-Furness and moved to Whitehaven two years prior to the current story. Her background gives her insight into both urban and rural policing in Cumbria.

Role in this Story:
In the current novel, Nina plays an active role in the investigation of Laurence Eversholt's murder. She conducts numerous interviews with witnesses and suspects, including Dean Somerville. Nina shows particular concern for the victims of human trafficking uncovered during the investigation. She also demonstrates initiative by conducting unauthorized surveillance of the Hair by Dee salons with DC Tom Willis.

Basic details:

• Name: Nina Kapoor
• Age: Late 20s to early 30s (exact age not specified)
• Place of Birth: Likely Barrow-in-Furness
• Current Residence: Whitehaven, Cumbria
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Police training (specific level not mentioned)
• Occupation: Detective Constable
• Income Level: Middle-class professional
• Relationship Status: Single
• Car they drive: Ford Fiesta (described as messy)

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Not specified
• Weight: Not specified
• Build: Not specified
• Skin colour: Not specified (likely South Asian descent based on name)
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Not specified
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments or injuries: None mentioned
• Other: Wears her hair in a quiff

DC Tom Willis:

Introduction:
DC Tom Willis is a fictional detective constable in the Cumbria Crime novel series. He serves as a key member of DI Zoe Finch's team in the Cumbria Constabulary's Criminal Investigation Department.

Overview:
Tom Willis demonstrates a methodical and thorough approach to police work. He excels at research and analysis, often uncovering crucial details in complex cases. Tom shows a particular aptitude for financial investigations and background checks.

Background:
Tom grew up in Cumbria, giving him a strong understanding of the local area and its people. He has worked his way up through the ranks of the Cumbria Constabulary, transitioning from uniform to CID.

Role in this Story:
In the current novel, Tom plays a significant role in the investigation of Laurence Eversholt's murder. He conducts extensive research into the victim's background and financial dealings. Tom also investigates the Hair by Dee salons, uncovering crucial evidence of human trafficking. He conducts unauthorized surveillance of the salons with DC Nina Kapoor and plays a key role in locating and safeguarding Maya Priest.

Basic details:

• Name: Tom Willis
• Age: Late 20s to early 30s (exact age not specified)
• Place of Birth: Cumbria (specific location not mentioned)
• Current Residence: Whitehaven, Cumbria
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Police training (specific level not mentioned)
• Occupation: Detective Constable
• Income Level: Middle-class professional
• Relationship Status: Recently single (broke up with PC Harriett Barnes)
• Car they drive: Not specified, but owns a car

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Not specified
• Weight: Not specified
• Build: Not specified
• Skin colour: Not specified (likely white based on name and location)
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Not specified
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments or injuries: None mentioned

Dean Somerville:

Introduction:
Dean Somerville is a fictional character in the Cumbria Crime novel series. He serves as the primary antagonist and the main suspect in the murder of Laurence Eversholt.

Overview:
Dean Somerville presents himself as a successful businessman but operates a human trafficking and prostitution ring under the guise of his Hair by Dee salons. He demonstrates a violent temper and a willingness to use force to protect his criminal enterprise.

Background:
Dean purchased the Hair by Dee salon chain from Elaine Priest, transforming it from a legitimate business into a front for human trafficking. He has connections to organized crime, particularly through his financial dealings with shell companies linked to crime boss Myron Carter.

Role in this Story:
In the current novel, Dean murders Laurence Eversholt to prevent him from exposing the human trafficking operation. He attempts to frame others for the crime and later tries to silence Susan Masters, who witnessed the murder. Dean confronts DI Zoe Finch on Herdus Fell, leading to a violent altercation that results in his arrest.

Basic details:

• Name: Dean Somerville
• Age: 30s (exact age not specified)
• Place of Birth: Not specified
• Current Residence: Cockermouth, Cumbria
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Not specified
• Occupation: Owner of Hair by Dee salons, criminal
• Income Level: Wealthy
• Relationship Status: Not specified
• Car they drive: White Toyota Hilux pickup

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Not specified, but described as tall
• Weight: Not specified
• Build: Muscular, described as having "taut biceps" and a gym-built physique
• Skin colour: Not specified (likely white based on name and location)
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Not specified
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments or injuries: Suffers a broken leg during his confrontation with DI Finch

Susan Masters:

Introduction:
Susan Masters is a fictional character in the Cumbria Crime novel series. She plays a significant role as both a suspect and a witness in the murder of Laurence Eversholt.

Overview:
Susan Masters presents herself as a disabled woman with deep roots in the Ennerdale community. She demonstrates a manipulative nature, using her perceived disability to gain sympathy and avoid consequences for her actions.

Background:
Susan previously organized the Great Borne Fell Race and other local events. She embezzled significant sums from these events, leading to her conviction. She avoided prison due to her supposed medical conditions, particularly Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

Role in this Story:
In the current novel, Susan initially appears as a suspect in Laurence Eversholt's murder due to her grudge against him for exposing her embezzlement. She later emerges as a key witness to the crime, having seen Dean Somerville commit the murder. Susan attempts to blackmail Somerville, leading to him attacking her on Herdus Fell.

Basic details:

• Name: Susan Masters
• Age: Late 50s to early 60s (exact age not specified)
• Place of Birth: Ennerdale, Cumbria (implied)
• Current Residence: Farmhouse near Ennerdale Water, Cumbria
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Not specified
• Occupation: Former event organizer, currently unemployed
• Income Level: Wealthy (from family property)
• Relationship Status: Widow
• Car they drive: Not specified

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Not specified
• Weight: Not specified
• Build: Not specified
• Skin colour: Not specified (likely white based on name and location)
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Not specified
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments or injuries: Claims to have COPD and other conditions, but these are revealed to be exaggerated or false. Uses a wheelchair, but can actually walk.

Maya Priest:

Introduction:
Maya Priest is a fictional character in the Cumbria Crime novel series. She plays a crucial role as a witness and key informant in the murder investigation of Laurence Eversholt.

Overview:
Maya demonstrates exceptional intelligence and computer skills. She exhibits a strong sense of justice and loyalty, particularly towards Laurence Eversholt, whom she considered a mentor and friend.

Background:
Maya moved to Whitehaven with her mother, Elaine Priest, two years prior to the events of the novel. She developed a close relationship with Laurence Eversholt, who mentored her in accounting and finance.

Role in this Story:
In the current novel, Maya provides crucial evidence by turning over Laurence Eversholt's laptop to the police. She helps decipher the contents, revealing Dean Somerville's criminal activities. Maya also correctly deduces that Susan Masters, not herself, is the target of Somerville's threats, aiding the police in preventing Susan's murder.

Basic details:

• Name: Maya Priest
• Age: 18 (moved to Whitehaven at 16, two years prior)
• Place of Birth: Barrow-in-Furness (implied)
• Current Residence: Whitehaven, Cumbria
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Secondary school, preparing for university
• Occupation: Student
• Income Level: Dependent (lives with wealthy mother)
• Relationship Status: Single
• Car they drive: Does not drive
• Physical Attributes:
• Height: Tall (described as "tall, thin")
• Weight: Not specified, but described as thin
• Build: Thin
• Skin colour: Black (described as "black girl")
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Not specified
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments or injuries: None mentioned

Carl Whaley:

Introduction:
Carl Whaley is a fictional character in the Cumbria Crime novel series. He serves as DI Zoe Finch's partner and works as a Detective Inspector in the Professional Standards Division of Cumbria Constabulary.

Overview:
Carl demonstrates a strong commitment to his work in Professional Standards. He maintains a professional demeanor and often struggles to balance his personal relationship with Zoe and his professional obligations.

Background:
Carl moved to Cumbria with Zoe approximately eight months before the events of the current novel. He previously worked in Birmingham, where he likely met Zoe.

Role in this Story:
In the current novel, Carl plays a supporting role as Zoe's partner. He becomes involved in the investigation of Kay Holinshed, a civilian employee suspected of accessing confidential information. Carl's work creates tension in his relationship with Zoe, particularly when she harbors Elena Marin, a trafficking victim, in their home.

Basic details:

• Name: Carl Whaley
• Age: Late 30s to early 40s (exact age not specified)
• Place of Birth: Not specified (likely Birmingham area)
• Current Residence: Whitehaven, Cumbria
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: University educated (implied)
• Occupation: Detective Inspector, Professional Standards Division
• Income Level: Middle-class professional
• Relationship Status: In a relationship with Zoe Finch
• Car they drive: Dark blue Skoda

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Not specified
• Weight: Not specified
• Build: Not specified
• Skin colour: Not specified (likely white based on name)
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Not specified
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments or injuries: None mentioned