Tori Miracle, a part-time newspaper reporter (Death, Lies, and Apple Pies), agrees to write some copy for the local Humane Society's historical house tour. While visiting the homes, she and girlfriend Alice-Ann discover skeletal remains in an outbuilding but do not tell police in order to safeguard the tour. Meanwhile, Tori's editor demands a story on an escaped convict who may return to Lickin Creek for revenge. The plot heats up as the skeleton disappears, another turns up, a local businessman is murdered, and Tori suffers several near misses. Quaint backdrops, curious characters, and fascinating local legends create a most entertaining read. Recommended. Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.