Geraldine (Gerry) Porter, widow and part-time teacher, is chairwoman of the local Doll House and Miniature Fair.
Her ten year old granddaughter, Maddie, is visiting from California and Gerry hopes to interest her in her own
hobby of making miniatures.
Her friend and fellow miniaturist, Laura Reed, has lots of problems, including her teenage adopted son, Jason.
Among other things, Jason may have been involved in a jewelry store robbery. And then Laura has issues with two
ex-husbands.
Gerry and Laura are exhibitors at the show and have booths side by side. Laura asks Gerry to watch her booth, but
doesn't come back, even after the show is over. Gerry finds Laura’s car still in the parking lot. However, Laura
calls Gerry in the middle of the night to pick her up. The next morning a woman is found murdered next to the
telephone booth from which Laura had made her call. There is another murder with Laura's Governor Winthrop miniature
turning up in a most alarming place. Gerry's life becomes threatened when she starts asking questions. With her
detective nephew Skip, she must investigate to protect herself and Maddie.
Would that we all had a 10 year old granddaughter as precocious as Maddie! The relationship between grandmother
and granddaughter is heartwarming. The plot is well constructed, with the dialogue written in a way that is real.
The characters are well drawn and lifelike, reminding us of people we know.
Enter the world of miniatures at your peril. The art of making miniatures is so intriguing that although I have
not been involved with crafts for a long time, I am sorely tempted to begin again with miniatures. I am beginning to
look around for items I can use! The book, in addition to being an enjoyable and suspenseful read, is crammed with
advice and hints on the art of miniature making.
Recommended for a few pleasant hours of relaxation