Hartsend

At the turn of the year in Hartsend, folk gather at the funeral of the formidable Mrs. Crosthwaite, famed for her fruit scones. Her middle-aged daughter Lesley now has a chance to break out - if it's not too late.

Lesley's virtuous neighbour Ruby Robertson, the scourge of E-Numbers, conjures up conspiracy where none exists. At the age of fifty, shy Duncan is suddenly susceptible to romance. And the younger generation has its own love tangles to sort out.

Out of everyone's sight, something terrible is about to happen in a village where everyone - apparently - knows everyone else.