Books like Dead man's bones by Susan Wittig Albert

Texas ex‑lawyer and herbalist China Bayles stumbles upon a chilling mystery when her teenage son finds skeletal remains during a local cave dig. The discovery hints at a not‑so‑accidental death that draws China into a case she can’t ignore. Meanwhile, Bayles manages the opening of a community theater donated by the Obermann sisters. The production, a play penned by the domineering Jane Obermann about her aristocratic heritage, is slated for a stunning premiere. During the event, a local handyman is shot dead by Jane amid an alleged break‑in, leading to a seeming act of self‑defense. Bayles senses deeper motives lurking behind the surface. She realizes the key to solving the current murders lies in the mysterious bones of the past—an ancient clue that, if followed, may expose the true killer and unravel a web of family secrets in the Texas community.

First publish date: 2005