A young boy is found dead on a beach in the small seaside town of Gracepoint, spurring a major investigation led by Detective Emmett Carver, who has just arrived in Gracepoint to fill a high position in the town's police force -- a position previously promised to Detective Ellie Miller, who must put any resentment aside and work the case with her prickly new boss.

The Solano family continues to grieve in the wake of their son's death. The detectives find disturbing evidence in Chloe's room, while Mark gets caught in a lie of his own. Beth confides in her old friend.

New suspects make the list as the detectives learn that Danny had some secrets of his own. Meanwhile, Detective Carver is also keeping things hidden that could affect his ability to finish the case.

Jack Reinhold's dark past comes to light, and Beth Solano decides to open up to the press.