The first episode see Dalziel picking up his once sociable roots - and returning to Wetherton Rugby Football Club where he is still a member. But his visit is not sparked off by a desire to down a few friendly pints in the bar. Connon the club's star player - he was tipped to play for England before an ankle injury wrecked his chances - has returned home from Saturday's match dazed and confused after a deliberate blow on the head in the confusion of a scrum. Still groggy, he goes to lie down leaving his wife Mary watching television. Some time later when he descends the stairs he finds her sitting in exactly the same position. There is just one difference - a neat, round and lethal hole in her skull. Has Connon killed his wife suspecting that she had ben unfaithful? Or could someone at the club have it in for the rugby star and his family?

Pascoe is back on familiar territory when he is called to Holm Coltram University, along with his straight-talking, mickey-taking boss, the formidable Detective Superintendent Andy Dalziel. But it is not the groves of academe that are calling to Dalziel, it is the lure of the unearthed body of a mystery middle-aged woman - buried underneath a statue commemorating the late head of the college. For Pascoe the discovery of the remains at the university gives him the chance to meet up once more with Ellie who is a lecturer there. The couple's relationship looks like it's ripe for renovation. The university campus becomes a temporary headquarters for Dalziel and Pascoe as they set up their office in the Principal's study. They soon learn that all is not as it seems at this seat of learning

The wedding bells ring out as Peter Pascoe finally walks down the aisle with Ellie. An Autumn Shroud sees the happy couple off on their honeymoon - leaving Detective Superintendent Andy Dalziel with no one to torment. The lure of Lincolnshire - the wedding location - appeals and Dalziel sets off a holiday of his own. But it seems he just can't get away from death and intrigue. A flooded road, a stranded car - and his only means of rescue turns out to be a funeral flotilla passing by! The deceased is one Conrad Fielding whose beautiful widow Bonnie offers Dalziel a port in the storm until his car is mended. But all is far from well at the Fielding's beautiful but debt-laden country home Lake House