Tess Harrow's book tells the story of an author who, with her new book release and the opening of her bookstore, wants to win back the trust of the residents of Winthrop. Tess combines these occasions to strengthen her relationships with the local community and important press contacts. With her mother visiting and her new much younger friend—whom Gertrude suspects is the notorious Levi Parker—Tess finds herself in a complex situation, as Levi has recently been involved in the disappearance of three older widows.
Armed with her knowledge of Levi Parker, Tess immediately warns Sheriff Boyd. But it's already too late: Levi is found dead, and Tess’s mother is considered the main suspect. Bernadette denies the murder, while Tess puts everything into protecting her mother. With the entire community turning against them, Tess must quickly figure out what really happened before it's too late.