Casey's relaxing Caribbean jazz cruise is interrupted when "The Countess" goes missing and the captain asks her to investigate ... quietly. All Casey wanted was to enjoy the music, sit on the deck reading novels and possibly pursue her attraction to Aaron, an intriguing jazz magazine editor. But she can't resist a mystery, especially when homicide might be involved. Ship authorities believe the countess overstayed at an island stop, but Casey suspects something more sinister. Images of the woman flailing in the night sea haunt Casey as she uncovers several passengers with motives for murder. Unsure whether the countess is alive or dead, the tenacious PI follows clues stretching from the seedy underbelly of Saigon to the luxurious ports of call of the Caribbean, the mystery's final resolution stunning even the seasoned investigator. Casey McKie is a smart, tough, straight-talking (and when necessary straight-shooting) PI and one of the most original characters to come along in years. An invitation to accompany her friend, jazz vocalist Dee Jefferson, on a jazz cruise is exactly what Casey needs after a harrowing experience bringing a serial killer to justice. She'll be on board a luxury liner, wining and dining in elegant comfort, listening to her favorite music. Casey thinks thieves and murders will be left behind on land. In her dreams. - Bruce Crowther, novelist and jazz writer