The Murder of a Queen Bee — Meera Lester

All abuzz about murder . . .

Former police officer Abigail Mackenzie has made a fresh start as a beekeeper and farmer in picturesque Las Flores, California -- but she never suspected her new hometown would prove to be a hive of criminal activity.

When Abby invites her free-spirited friend, Fiona Mary Ryan, owner of Ancient Wisdom Botanicals, to her farmette for lunch, she never imagines that Fiona's no-show will lead to a murder investigation.

Only hours after their lunch date, Fiona's body is found in a burning car in what at first appears to be a tragic accident. But after the coroner's report is issued, it's clear she was dead before being placed in the vehicle. Someone has gone to great lengths to cover up a murder. But who -- and why?

Driven by her loyalty to her friend, and her deeply ingrained skills as a trained investigator, Abby sorts through suspects -- who seem to be sprouting up everywhere. Speculating that Fiona's herbal business might hold the key to motive, Abby isn't afraid to get her hands dirty to smoke out a killer . . .