Mystery at Clareton Manor

It’s springtime in South Carolina . . .

The scene is set at a gracious country villa where financially challenged Erika Bischoff operates a spa that promotes relaxation and stress reduction to a well-heeled clientele.

The characters arrive —

* Industrial baron Harvey Ruger and his wife Abigail; * Marian and Francis Whitt — Marian is Abigail Ruger’s * The Ruger’s playboy son and his l’amour de jour from New Orleans; * Former detective Molly May who never ignores a clue, though retired; * Marcus and Angie Bella, a young black couple, spending a windfall; * The stunning Nora Pritchard, vice-president of an airline;

And join the staff and townfolk —

* Christa and Peter Bischoff, Erika’s grown children; * An Indian cook; * A pastor from a neighboring church; * A weasel-faced gardener who spends his time avoiding work; * A former stockbroker and part-time massage therapist; * And let’s not forget Detective Bloom, a village law officer who is called in when industrial baron Harvey Ruger is found murdered!

Everyone seems suspect — until former detective Molly May unearths the truth. The perfect who-done-it. Fun to read with a classic plot reminiscent of Agatha Christie.

An excellent read that features minimal violence (there is a murder) and NO vulgarity. Refreshing!