Just weeks after inheriting Rosebank - a dilapidated but once magnificent plantation - David Patin died in a mysterious fire that destroyed his popular New Orleans restaurant.
His wife Charlotte and daughter Vivian are devastated not only by his death, but also by the discovery that he has left them on the brink of financial ruin. In an attempt to bring back the family fortunes they embark on restoring the lushly overgrown Rosebank to its former glory, this time as a resort hotel offering all the sultry charm of old Louisiana.
But Charlotte and Vivian's dream becomes a nightmare when the family's lawyer is found dead on the sprawling lawns - a rose on his chest and a brilliant lipstick mark on his chest. Is someone targeting the family? Was David's death really an accident?
Vivian approaches deputy sheriff Spike Devol for help, but the instant attraction between them means he is reluctant to get involved. But then another shocking murder occurs at Rosebank and Spike fears that Vivian could be the next victim. Now it's up to Spike and Vivian to catch a killer . . . before he kills again.
