Harrison Black inherited River's Edge, a former warehouse and factory now converted into
a complex of shops, offices and his apartment perched on the edge of the Gunpowder River
in Micah's Ridge, North Carolina from his great aunt Belle. He cannot sell the complex
until he has run the shop for 5 years. His At Wick's End candle shop is located in the
complex.
He plans to have a vendor's table at the New Conover Founder's Day celebration, hoping
to boost his sales. His sole employee is Eve Pleasants who has helped educate him in the
art of candle making. She doesn't approve of this.
A rival to At Wit's End is Flickering Lights, located in the downtown business district.
Its franchise is owned by Gretel Barnett, who poses a strong danger to Harrison's sales.
She has promised "to bury him". As Harrison is helping one of his shop renters, Heather
Bank, set up her table, he has a verbal confrontation with Gretel. Shortly after Gretel
is shot and killed. A bystander claims to have seen Harrison shoot her. Harrison without
the aid of Sheriff Morton must clear his name. Complicating his endeavors is the strange
absence of Pearly Gray, retired psychologist and current handy man for River's Edge and
the problem of his ex-girl friend Becka Lane who is being stalked.
This is a pleasant story in which we meet again old friends from previous books; Pearly
Gray, Sheriff Morton, Mrs. Jorgensen, wealthy eccentric who helps keep At Wit's End solvent
by her private lessons in candle making, Millie, who tempts us with her delicious foods. The
atmosphere of the town and Harrison's relationships with the townspeople is engaging
with his loyalty to old and new friends.
Interwoven in the struggle to clear himself is much discussion of the art of candle
making with tips on candle making. Also included is a special recipe for Apple Pan Dowdy.
TRY IT!!!!