About the Book

When Al asks his favorite niece to become the interim manager of his restaurant, Unincorporated, she hesitantly agrees. Ashley’s lack of experience in the industry makes her apprehensive, but her recently earned degree hasn’t attracted any job offers. Hopefully hard work and dedication on her part, and swift surgery recovery on Al’s part, will prevent the venture from becoming a disaster. Struggling in her new role, Ashley is confronted with an antagonistic chef, a gruesome murder and personal threats, all testing her attitude and self-confidence. A demanding role in a community fundraiser, a damaging storm and lack of strong local friendships put Ashley’s life in a state of turmoil. The homicide investigation continues to lead authorities to Unincorporated, to its employees and to Ashley. Temptation to bail on her commitment grows by the day, but devotion to her Uncle Al is a determining factor. Finding the strength to remain in her position, she vows to take on whatever challenges get thrown at her. As she becomes increasingly embroiled in the unpleasantness Ashley becomes convinced that her insights and intuition can solve the crime, putting the whole unpleasant episode to rest.

Features & Details

About the Author

Joan Cunningham’s novels draw from her twenty-year background in the hospitality industry. As co-owner of an iconic restaurant, pub, and bakery she is part of the hectic lifestyle depicted in her writings. The unpredictable never-a-dull moment foodservice world comes alive, inviting the reader to experience the stresses and satisfactions, the trials and tribulations that occur daily. Joan’s writings create a window into the complicated relationships resulting from human interaction in the workplace. Her insights depict the personal upheavals that occur when unpredictable events rock a peaceful community; lives are altered, people discover new strengths, and existence becomes more complex. The reader becomes immersed in a narrative that combines personal struggle with crime-solving action. Joan lives in Wisconsin with her husband Paul and 27 Japanese koi. But can she really succeed where the professionals are failing?