Carving Out a Path

A young shoplifter not only swipes a couple of hand-carved figurines from Ray Davenport, owner of Victoria Square's Wood U gift shop, but barrels into and injures Katie Bonner, manager of Artisans Alley. Upon his escape, the police are called, but before the ink is dry on the report, the boy's grandmother drags the would-be thief back to return the purloined items. She's got an agenda and great expectations. Can Ray come through in a pinch? The immensely popular Booktown Mystery series is what put Lorraine Bartlett's pen name Lorna Barrett on the New York Times Bestseller list, but it's her talent--whether writing as Lorna, or L.L. Bartlett, or Lorraine Bartlett -- that keeps her in the hearts of her readers. This multi-published, Agatha-nominated author pens the exciting Jeff Resnick Mysteries as well as the acclaimed Victoria Square Mystery series, the Tales of Telenia adventure-fantasy saga, and now the Lotus Bay Mysteries, and has many short stories and novellas to her name(s). A companion series to the Victoria Square MysteriesVictoria Square is the home of a number of eclectic enterprises, anchored by Artisans Alley. Need a gift for family, friends or a special occasion? Visit Gilda's Gift Baskets and Wood U. Something sweet to eat? Visit Tanner's Bakery and Cafe, Sweet Sue's Confectionery or Booth's Jellies and Jams. Have tea at the Square's tea shoppe, and get your quilting needs at Sew Quilty. Meanwhile, get to know the merchants on the Square and learn about the lives they lead.