Mary-Louise protects her family’s interests. She does what needs doing—like taking care of the racoons that threaten her property and pose a nuisance.

But any good leader needs to delegate. Mary-Louise hopes her niece, Emma, will prove worthy of the responsibility. Mary-Louise hopes Emma makes the right call.

Because Mary-Louise protects her family—no matter the cost.

“Kristine Kathryn Rusch’s crime stories are exceptional, both in plot and in style.”

—Mystery Scene Magazine