Not having seen each other in sixteen years, sparks fly immediately when April Chastain misrepresents herself and returns to her hometown of Magnolia Blossom, Mississippi, to work for Russell Dalton, a man she has adored since childhood. They find themselves caught up in a web of romance, mystery, and danger. Left for dead at the age of six, April was miraculously spared by a man-size teddy bear, a gift from Russell. As clues about the murder of April's parents trickle to light, evidence surfaces that points to trusted friends as possible murders. Several other deaths and a high number of cancer patients are linked to suspected illegal dumping of toxic, water-soluble cadmium. Through it all, the one constant is an inanimate teddy bear, which holds a secret. The world of investigative reporting proves to be a roller coaster of intrigue, secrets, and tumultuous relationships in Wilted Magnolias.