His mystery novel writer Martin Clayborne retire three years ago from public life, to idyllic rural Lake Thompson. When New York reporter and would be-novelist Vanessa Sills is convinced by a friend to take the weekend off, despite a deadline for a promotion, just there, she spots and recognizes him as her favorite author. He turns out to be shy for media since a vicious article, but charming and committed to the town, like her fiend's parents, especially with founder's day impending. Despite an initial refusal to give any interview, a friendship is built over common interests including his dog and cooking. He agrees to share pieces of information and even encourages her to finish a novel herself.—KGF Vissers