Widow's Tears

March 4, 2013
The bond between China Bayles and her boon friend and business partner, Ruby Wilcox, suffers in Albertâs enjoyable 21st cozy featuring the Pecan Springs, Tex., ex-lawyer and herbalist (after 2012âs Catâs Claw). Unfolding along with the present-day story is the tragic tale of the horrific Galveston hurricane of 1900 and its impact on Rachel Blackwood; her husband, a bank vice-president; and their five children. Ruby answers a plea for help from old friend Claire Conway, who has inherited the Blackwood family mansion in the tiny town of Round Top. Unnatural occurrences, including ghost sightings, are frustrating Claireâs plans to turn the old place into a B&B. While Claire and Ruby wrestle with spirits, China must deal with Rubyâs pushy sister, Ramona, whoâs offering to buy Ruby out completely, a prospect that sends China running to Round Top. As for plant lore, this installment focuses on florigraphyâthe language of flowers.