Alibis and Aspidistras

Two cups of tea, one dead body.

Welcome to Ferns and Fancies, a haven of peace and potted plants among the shops of the River Walk. Or it would be, if someone hadn't just left an ominous note in the door.

Owner Sonrisa Temple confides her worries to a new customer, Gwen, a bubbly older woman who knows a button fern when she sees one. Reassured by Gwen's optimism, Sonrisa dismisses the note--until she stops by to repot her new friend's aspidistra and find her dead, with tea for two grown cold in her living room.

Two cups of tea?

What seems a tragedy turns out to be murder, and the police have a lot of questions. So does Sonrisa. Who would want to kill such a lovely person? Where is Gwen's tea-drinking guest? And does this have anything to do with that anonymous note?

Stunned by Gwen's death and now a suspect in her murder, Sonrisa is determined to find the person responsible and restore peace to their small community. As she uncovers secrets along the River Walk, she realizes that if she isn't careful, the killer will frame her for Gwen's death--or worse, ensure that Sonrisa herself enjoys eternal peace.