Buried in the Past — Bill Kitson

When a consignment of illicit diamonds en route to London vanishes, together with the couriers, it isn't long before East End gangster Max Perry is found dead, having suffered horrific torture. Accused of killing a rival, Max's nephew, Ray, is sentenced to life in prison. He is released twenty-five years later and heading for Helmsdale when Ray is the victim of a hit and run, and D.I. Mike Nash is convinced it was no accident. Following the murder of a garage mechanic, Nash discovers a link to an unidentified skeleton found years ago in Helmsdale woodland. How do crimes committed long ago in London connect to the current wave of violence in Helmsdale? As the body count rises, the detectives struggle to keep pace with those who would prefer the truth to remain dead and buried.