Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and with it comes a new cast of intriguing characters to Pleasant Creek, Indiana. Guests flock to the Olde Mansion Inn owned by Liz Eckardt, who is eager to offer the cozy and welcoming atmosphere of her newfound home to the winter holidaymakers. One in particular, the handsome and enigmatic Shane O’Rourke, charms Liz and her guests with his kind acts and dashing good looks.

Liz’s heart flies to her throat when Shane’s lifeless body is discovered on the banks of Jaynes Lake. Who was this mystery man, and what was his purpose for coming to Pleasant Creek? The local authorities try to make sense of the ghastly murder, but one piece of the puzzle just won’t fit: on the body of the victim, they find a photograph of one of Pleasant Creek’s most beloved citizens . . . and one of Liz’s dearest friends!

Meanwhile, Naomi Mason, the owner of the local bakery, is distraught. Her elderly mother has grown distant and forgetful in her upscale nursing home, and Naomi’s past loves and losses are now coming home to roost. Liz is determined to get to the bottom of the trouble in Pleasant Creek and to absolve her friend. But does Naomi know more about the goings-on than she is willing to admit?

On a wing and a prayer, Liz and the rest of the Material Girls, along with Mayor Jackson Cross, pull together to solve the mystery in time for the Valentine’s Day party and auction. But will they manage to learn the truth before anyone else runs afoul of the killer’s deceptive heart?

Marlene Chase

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