The Dickens Estate in Bexford is so called because all of the streets and housing blocks are named after Dickensian characters, places or events. After finishing work, two undercover police officers make their way home. As they walk through Tappertit Wood, they are shot. Matthew is charged with finding the killer, but has recently approved a police operation on the estate looking for drug dealers, and those heading up a spate of knife crimes in the Bexford area. Will this operation hinder his progress or will it have to be mothballed? Will Matthew, Peter and the team get a clear run at solving this case? What is the significance of the white skulls?