Traces poster

TV series

Traces

2019TV-142 seasons6.4 / 10

The evidence doesn't lie. People do.

Set against the stunning Scottish landscape in and around Dundee, three compelling female characters — Emma Hedges, Prof. Sarah Gordon and Prof. Kathy Torrance — join forces to uncover the truth about an unsolved murder case that's very close to home.

Streaming, rental and purchase options

Where to watch in United States

Checked Nov 5, 2026

Traces is available to stream on Britbox, Britbox (Via Amazon Prime), Hoopla, and Kanopy in United States. You can also buy it from Amazon, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home. Use the direct links below to open the provider.

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Synopsis

Set against the stunning Scottish landscape in and around Dundee, three compelling female characters — Emma Hedges, Prof. Sarah Gordon and Prof. Kathy Torrance — join forces to uncover the truth about an unsolved murder case that's very close to home.

Season 2 episodes

Choose an episode, then use the watch options above for the show.

← Season 1

Episode 1

Episode 1

46m7.0 / 10

Emma is now training as a forensic chemist - and on the cusp of seeing her mother's murder case finally solved, while Daniel has returned to Dundee to give evidence against Phil.

Episode credits

Directed by Chris Foggin

Where to watch Traces

Episode 2

Episode 2

46m7.0 / 10

A second explosion puts pressure on McKinven and Sarah to find and stop the bomber. As Phil's murder trial continues, both Daniel and Emma are feeling the strain.

Episode credits

Directed by Chris Foggin

Where to watch Traces

Episode 3

Episode 3

46m8.0 / 10

The task facing McKinven is more daunting than ever, especially now that his wife Azra is joining the investigation. Meanwhile, Kathy's PhD student sees more than she should...

Episode credits

Directed by Chris FogginWritten by Jess Williams

Where to watch Traces

Episode 4

Episode 4

46m8.0 / 10

Two suspects derail the investigation as McKinven and Sarah are consumed by their feelings. Kathy's inability to communicate becomes a serious problem.

Episode credits

Directed by Claire WinyardWritten by Jess Williams

Where to watch Traces

Episode 5

Episode 5

46m8.0 / 10

Another deadly explosion occurs. Sarah and McKinven's growing attachment has consequences, as Kathy suspects Jean the Dean of having a secret to hide.

Episode credits

Directed by Claire Winyard

Where to watch Traces

Episode 6

Episode 6

46m9.0 / 10finale

Sarah works with McKinven to prevent another explosion before making decisions about their future. Kathy realises change is essential, personally and professionally.

Episode credits

Directed by Claire Winyard

Where to watch Traces

Episode information updated Nov 14, 2026

More about Traces

Cast

Molly WindsorEmma
Laura FraserProf. Sarah Gordon
Jennifer SpenceProf. Kathy Torrance
Martin CompstonDaniel MacAfee
Michael NardoneDCI Neil McKinven
Laurie BrettIzzy Alessi
John Gordon SinclairDrew Cubbin
Vincent ReganPhil MacAfee

Credits

Created by
Val McDermid, Amelia Bullmore
Written by
Amelia Bullmore, Val McDermid, Jess Williams

Production details

Status
Ended
Series type
Scripted
Episodes
12
Original language
English

Networks & production

  • U&AlibiUnited Kingdom
  • Red Production CompanyUnited Kingdom

Themes

based on novel or bookcase studylab assistantmurderscotland