The Sweet Scent of Murder — Susan P. Baker

Private investigator Mavis Davis is approached by her high school assistant, Candy, who brings in the girl's older brother to hire Mavis. Initially, Mavis refuses, stating she doesn't work for kids since they lack the authority to hire anyone.However, the young man throws money at Mavis and flees before she can return it. After Candy's persistent pleas, Mavis agrees to spend a minimal amount of time on the case. But shortly after arriving to meet the parents—who are hosting a garden/pool party—the father drops dead.The brother then vanishes as well!When the police arrive, they order Mavis to back off, which only strengthens her resolve. Determined to fulfill her obligations, she also fears that whoever has the kids may have killed their father.As Mavis delves into the family's history, she discovers that not everything is as it seems. Long unresolved issues demand another look. Determined to get to the bottom of it all, Mavis realizes that reuniting the kids with their mother may not be in their best interest.Due to her missteps, Mavis is arrested and charged as an accessory to kidnapping. Once released from jail, she must solve the case to clear her name. Even her cop boyfriend, Ben, can't—or won't—help her this time. If she doesn't resolve the case soon, Mavis faces a life sentence!