In The Crossing Places, by Elly Griffiths, forensic archaeologist Ruth Galloway gets involved in modern and ancient mysteries due in part to her specialization in bones.  Setting takes precedence in this lyrically written story set on the marshy northeast coast of England, the "crossing place," where land meets sea.  Feisty Ruth, seeking solace and independence in the desolate but gorgeous landscape she has come to love, is very much a part of the modern world, while exploring the ancient, and unearthing fascinating evidence of how landscape shaped early cultures, their rites, rituals and spiritual places.  Dialogue and character interaction move the story along, resulting in a finely wrought mystery tied inextricably to its incredible setting.