For almost a quarter of a century, Katherine Copeland has remained silent about the events that led to the untimely death of her mother. Then an impromptu visit from a stranger reignites the twenty-three year old mystery, leading Katie to reevaluate what transpired after her mother left her peaceful life in Savannah for bohemian Lantana. The death of Emily Copeland is regarded by many as a double-edged sword - murder versus suicide. On the tropical Isle of Diamante, blame and suspicion cast a shadow over a colorful troupe of characters implicated in her death, chief among them being the vicious tropical storm who threw Emily into the arms of the caddish Dove Holiness. As Katie recalls her tragic life in Lantana, a host of shady characters materializes: the simple and idiotic Ms. Daisy; Miss Christina, the adulteress; Delgado, the lazy voodoo priest; Shacklewood, the sinister pharmacist; Ma Walters, the crazy town gossip; and the beautiful Miss Daphney, whose charm and personality sets her apart from this motley crew.