Katherine Fletcher

The body on the Historical Society floor looks like an accident. Dot Halstead has volunteered there for eleven years, long enough to notice what doesn't fit. For years, the Thursday Book Club has read about murders that happened somewhere else, some fictional, some true. Now their quiet town has given them a real case. Craig Marsh, chairman of Kettle Creek's fiftieth-anniversary committee, was skilled at making enemies.
Five days before Craig's death, he and his brother Dennis argued publicly over valuable lakefront property. When suspicion settles on Dennis, the police appear to have their answer. But obvious isn't the same as guilty. After thirty-five years as a teacher, Dot knows how quickly a room can decide who is to blame. She refuses to let it happen to Dennis. Margaret follows money that doesn't add up. June traces missing lakefront transfers through the county archives.
Beverly knows which questions people will answer over coffee and something freshly baked. Dot keeps returning to the display case and what was moved. Together, the four friends uncover questionable anniversary payments, contested land, and secrets buried inside Kettle Creek's official history. Someone planned Craig's death and expected Dennis to take the blame. Lakeside Murder is Book One of The Thursday Book Club Mysteries, perfect for readers who enjoy clean, character-driven cozies with sharp-eyed senior sleuths, close-knit communities, and fair-play clues.
Pull up a chair and join the Thursday Book Club for their first full-length case.