Elizabeth attends a performance art gallery opening for her daughter’s friends, Kyra, Aidan and Boz, known as The 3, where striking matches is the main attraction. There is a gimmick planned for the end of the show, but when Boz is found dead it seems that life imitates art rather than the other way around. Aidan is the immediate suspect and Kyra, who is very distraught, comes to stay with Elizabeth who soon learns that Kyra is the daughter of a prominent businessman and the great-granddaughter of an even more prominent matriarch, Lillian Gordon.

Somehow, Lillian Gordon’s, and eventually Kyra’s story ties in with an old quilt Elizabeth finds at her suitor’s aunt’s house, a quilt she is borrowing for an exhibit at the library. As the story of the quilt unfolds, Kyra’s story becomes more in focus, as does Aidan’s. All the stories weave quietly around each other, glancing and nodding toward each other, finally coming together to make a clear picture, much like the pieces of fabric in the quilts Elizabeth is collecting.

Lillian’s story is as compelling and interesting as is the murder of Boz. Well drawn, fascinating characters with a rich atmosphere immerse readers in the rural community and the diverse lives of the newer, richer residents and the older residents who still hold the old ways dear. Elizabeth is a very strong woman, still vulnerable from her husband’s death, but desperately wanting to move forward with her life. Lillian’s story is rich enough to be a story in its own right, and Kyra, who could easily be seen as pathetic and spoiled, appears very sympathetic and vulnerable. The last scene sets up the scene for the next book, excerpted in the back, teasing readers eager for another glimpse at Elizabeth Goodweather and the folks in Asheville.

--Jennifer Monahan Winberry