especially after a body is found buried beneath the peach tree that grows on the site of the Blue Ridge Madam. Paxton has continued their traditions while Willa has shunned them, even ignoring Paxton’s recent invitation to celebrate the club’s anniversary with a giant party at the restored mansion the Jacksons once owned.īut Willa might not be able to ignore Paxton much longer. In the 1930s, the two women came together to form the Women’s Society Club of Walls of Water, an organization established to protect and support one another. Though cordial to one another, Willa and Paxton were never good friends - unlike their aging grandmothers, Georgie and Agatha. Somebody had to remain the backbone and brace of Walls of Water’s vibrant citizenship.

Someone had to foster their reputation for charity in the community. Someone had to stay with her parents, entertaining and helping and supporting them. Born into a wealthy family and destined to continue the Osgoods’ reputation for class, excellence and poise, Paxton never considered leaving the only home she’s ever known - especially when her twin brother, Colin, seemed so eager to go.

In another part of town, Paxton Osgood has never left. Growing up in a place known for its nature and beautiful cataracts, Willa was eager to get away - but family, more than anything, pulled her home again. Though known as a prankster in high school, the time came for Willa to let go of her constant need for an adrenaline rush, move back to her hometown and run a store in Walls of Water, North Carolina’s popular tourist area.

The Peach Keeper by Sarah Addison Allen