London, 1869. The life of a Scotland Yard Inspector comes with the small print of late nights, early mornings, too much booze and not nearly enough money. Benjamin Michaelson has never known any other. But when he is called to investigate a multiple murder at Nunhead Cemetery, three young urchins found shivering at the scene are summarily thrust into Michaelson's life. As the suspect continues to elude him, and his past and present inexorably collide, Michaelson is forced to examine his career and his life... and whether a hypnotic young girl from the cemetery has a place in either.