A bookseller reunites with her estranged, enigmatic father in Key West in this suspenseful novel by a New York Times-bestselling author. Twenty-five years ago, Long Island bookstore owner Laurel York was abandoned by her father, author Clifton York. Ever since, she’s followed his life and career with morbid resentment. When Clifton’s collaborator shows up in her shop with the gift of an … with the gift of an orchid, she reluctantly agrees to accompany him back to Key West to help her and her father come to terms with the past–even in light of her late mother’s warning: “There is something terribly wrong in that house . . .”
Laurel arrives at her father’s estate in the historic district of Old Town expecting past wounds to show their scars. But what she doesn’t anticipate are her father’s cool reception, two strange stepsisters, rumors of a buried treasure, and the whispers about Clifton’s second wife–and her bizarre death in a greenhouse full of orchids. The only one who seems to be happy about her presence is the mysterious Marcus O’Neill–if only she could be sure she can trust him. Now, in a house of bad blood and family secrets, Laurel finds herself alone, unprepared for the real reason she has been summoned, and, with every new revelation, more afraid for her life.
Edgar Award winner Phyllis A. Whitney, “headmistress of handsomely-schooled suspense [is] in full bloom” in this gothic romance of deception and murder (Kirkus Reviews).
This ebook features an illustrated biography of Phyllis A. Whitney including rare images from the author’s estate.
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Phyllis Whitney is such a talented writer. This story is haunting and original. She writes empathetic characters and flawed characters very well. I’ve enjoyed every one of her books.
I thought it a little scattered, but I ’m glad I read it
I was a voracious reader of Whitney when I was a teen so I was looking forward to reading one of her books again. Unfortunately, I found the writing to be sappy and predictable and couldn’t get into it. I put it down after the first three pages.
I love and have read all Phyllis Whitney novels!
I grew up reading Phyllis Whitney’s suspense/romantic books. Her books still hold up with solid plotting, family conflict, romance, and interesting locations/people.
So take a trip to Key West and enjoy the local sites and food and history. Wrecked ships full of treasure is always a good bit of suspense especially if Derek is in charge and dating one sister while the other sister worships him.
Add in the older sister Laurel, brought down to see her Dad, Cliff, befores he dies. Her mother, kept her away from Cliff after their divorce. Marcus involves Laurel in checking out the mysterious vibes between the two step sisters she had never met. Laurel also finds hostility directed at her from the sister Iris and the secretary/friend, Alida.
Between schemes and undercurrents, there is a reference to Poppy, Cliffs second wife…died alone in the orchard room. Fern, the younger step sister is a bit flighty and mercurial. And Marcus, well, Laurel really likes him but he seems in love with Iris……set to marry Derek.
It’s an old fashion kind of mystery with romance, not sex, and intrigue that isn’t hard to follow. A light mystery with good characters, dreamy location, and family dynamics…a good beach read.
Typical great mystery story by Phyllis Whitney. Been reading her books for over 50 years.
Great ending!
I have read Phyllis Whitney books on and off for many years. As with authors that write many books you always have your favorites books. So I was interested in this reading this one. The Key West setting wants you to book a flight and see it for yourself. The plot was intriguing, however I have to agree with another review that the Laurel/Marcus relationship was never fully developed. A good story.
I’ve loved Phyllis Whitney books since high school. They never disappoint.
I really like this author. This book took a little while to get into, but once I did…..I stayed and am glad that I did.
Phyllis Whitney’s sad story with a happy ending.
Phyllis A. Whitney’s books are easy to read and entertaining. There are always twists and turns to the story so you are never sure just how it will end.
I chose this book because it is set in Key West. I was disappointed that the relationship between the main female character and the guy she winds up with is never fully developed. Not much interaction between them to merit a grand declaration of love at the end.
Took me back to Key West! It was like a mini vacation. Loved it!
Phyllis Whitney was a favourite author many years ago but I hadn’t read this one. I enjoy her character building and her plotting is intriguing. It was like meeting an old friend again. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Was a good read
Felt a bit dated but strong enough to pull me through to the surprising ending
Good premise but very poorly executed. Choppy, not believable, disjointed.
Excellent!!
Great sense of Key West. Page turner. Intriguing characters. Mystery