Simon has made arrangements for his guru and a group of his special guests (those willing to fork over a hundred thousand dollars to be in the master’s presence) to spend their retreat at the winery’s boutique hotel and spa. Simon wants Nikki to play hostess and pull together the event in less than a week. At first, Nikki puts her foot down because there is already a lot on her plate and Derek will be in New York wooing an international investor, but learns that Derek has already promised Simon she would help. 

Nikki grits her teeth and turns on the charm for the guests, some of whom are very difficult.  She meets Alan Sansi (Guru Sansibaba) who is pleasant enough, and his family, including daughter Hayden who helps Alan run his empire and daughter Sierra who is a bit of a lush, and Nikki suspects, is very unhappy. The first excursion Nikki plans is on the Napa Valley Wine Train, which quickly turns into Murder on the Orient Express when Japanese publisher Iwao Yomimoto is found, his throat slit, a cork in his mouth. 

While there are other guests and staff on the train besides Nikki’s group, the investigation focuses on the gang from Malveaux Estate. Local police detective Robinson, who has butted heads with Nikki before, surprises her by asking her to keep her eyes and ears open, and Nosey Nikki, as she is known locally, is more than happy to oblige.  Someone in their way to greater enlightenment, however, wants Nosey Nikki to mind her own business, maybe for good.  

Corked for Cabernet is the latest installment of the Wine Country murders featuring the intrepid Nikki Sands and her friends and now family, at the Malveaux Estate.  She’s a little sad about her relationship with once best friend Isabelle, whose brother was in love with Nikki, and wants to do something to restore the friendship, but isn’t sure how.  Nikki is very caring toward her friends, including co-worker Alyssa and her son Petie, who is in need of a heart transplant.  Without Derek to divide her attentions, Nikki gives her full attention to the investigation, and comes up with many viable suspects among the guests. 

Along the way Nikki mends a few broken hearts, helps build the Winery’s business and organizes Derek’s kitchen.  A satisfying mystery with a romantic setting and recipes and wine pairings, Corked for Cabernet is sure to please every palate.                               

--Jennifer Monahan Winberry