Charlie Hicks, a discontent police detective, and detective Elaine Renko connect for life in their first investigation in a suicide case after Hicks was suspicious of his new partner.
The government shuts down the story of the Hard Sun Hoax that Renko persuaded a journalist to publish, but the detectives investigate a killer who takes the "Hard Sun Hoax" for real.
A disillusioned former worker wants to challenge God to reveal himself by targeting helpful people. Meanwhile, Renko investigates evidence that suggests Hicks and Butler were corrupt.
Hicks concludes where Renko hid the Hard Sun flash drive. Meanwhile, London is under siege as Blackwood's killing rises.
Terrible personal implications for Renko and Daniel happen when a night jogger is murdered.
Enmity culminates between Hicks, Renko, and Grace, while an internet killer is targeting people who believe they wish to die.