Ep 3. Bones and Silence

Set in the fictional town of Wetherton in Yorkshire, England, Dalziel & Pascoe follows the investigations of Detective Superintendent Andrew Dalziel and Detective Inspector Peter Pascoe. In season 3 episode 3 of the series, entitled "Bones and Silence," the detectives are drawn into a complex case involving a missing teenage girl.

As the episode opens, the parents of 16-year-old Tracey Pedley report their daughter missing. The investigation initially centers around a caravan site where Tracey and her family were staying, as well as Tracey's school and social circle. However, when they discover a severed finger that appears to belong to the missing girl, the case takes on a darker tone.

Dalziel and Pascoe soon discover that Tracey had been involved with a group of scavengers who comb the local moors and hills in search of valuable artifacts. The detectives begin to piece together a timeline of events leading up to Tracey's disappearance, and must navigate the complicated relationships of her family, friends, and fellow scavengers to solve the case.

The detectives' investigation becomes increasingly intricate as they delve deeper into the underbelly of the scavenger community. They encounter a variety of eccentric characters, including a wealthy collector of antiquities and a reclusive artist. The trail ultimately leads them to an abandoned mine, where they discover a shocking secret that sheds new light on the case.

As with many episodes of Dalziel & Pascoe, "Bones and Silence" explores complex themes of family, loyalty, and identity. The detectives must confront difficult moral questions as they navigate the murky waters of the case. The episode is notable for its intricate plotting and tightly-woven narrative, which keep viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Overall, "Bones and Silence" is a thrilling and engaging installment of Dalziel & Pascoe, showcasing the series' trademark blend of intricate plotting, complex characters, and rich themes. Fans of the detective genre will find much to enjoy in this compelling episode.