Beneath the Village Charm — Susan A. Jennings

At Lavender Cottage, the kettle is always on, the dogs are always underfoot, and life in the charming canal-side village of Springsville is never as peaceful as it seems.Katie Bannister has built a new life she loves???running her bed-and-breakfast, helping at the village clinic, and finding deep contentment with her husband, Piers. But when unsettling guests arrive, old secrets resurface, and the shadow of crime creeps too close, Katie's gift for welcoming strangers is tested. A mysterious figure from the past threatens the calm of the community, while friends wrestle with secrets of their own???hidden children, complicated loyalties, and second chances at love.Amidst the bustle of village life???pub darts tournaments, lively markets, and shared laughter over tea???Katie and her friends discover that true strength lies in standing together. Along the way, she finds herself sleuthing once again, piecing together puzzles no one else dares touch. Through it all, her marriage to Piers deepens, reminding her that even in later years, love can be tender, passionate, and full of surprises.Katie's life  is perfect???if she can survive the secrets of Springsville.