The Deadly Ackee and Other Stories of Crime and Catastrophe

Book excerpt: Agatha and Macavity Award-winning Author In the title novel, "The Deadly Ackee," retired florist Theo Bloom lucks into what appears to be a perfect situation -- escorting his teenage niece and her five friends to lush Jamaica, where he can study the tropical flora to his heart's delight. But there are serpents in paradise; his squabbling charges are enough to drive even mild-mannered Theo to drink, and when an old friend from the CIA turns up, it's more than coincidence. But when a body is found floating in the resort pool, Theo's vacation turns murderous, and only he can solve the mystery before another victim is found. Also included is a selection of short stories, including one from "The Maggody Files." Joan Hess lives in Fayetteville, Arkansas.