Carmela Bertrand is dining with her beau, handsome, ginger- haired Detective Edgar Babcock. They have just finished a superb dinner at the four-star Diamond Award restaurant, Commander's Palace. It is located in the Garden District in New Orleans. Carmela is a pretty, blue-grey eyed gal with a fairly athletic body from walking her two dogs. She still enjoys a few curves that are admired and that appeal to Babcock. Their evening has been romantic and special. Isabelle Black, an assistant district attorney, stops by their table to chat. They speak briefly about her upcoming wedding. She preens as she shows off her stunning three-carat diamond engagement ring and leaves smiling.

Leaving the restaurant, they walk a few blocks to where Babcock parked his car. They approach the legendary Lafayette Cemetery when a scream pierces the quiet evening. Babcock races into the cemetery with Carmela trying to keep up with him. They find the body of Isabelle Black, strangled with a piece of lace. Police begin investigating and so does sleuth Carmela Bertrand. She does it quietly so Babcock does not find out. First, she starts with the vintage lace.

Lots of suspects starting with the groom-to-be; his mother, who does not approve of his choice; best man, a VP in charge of a development of a new casino on the site of the old and battered amusement park. Could it be one of the good old boys, whose politics, bribes and under- the-table dealings force him to kill? The maid of honor, who seems much too close to the groom-to-be? The ex-boyfriend and now super chef? When the chips are down and the final clues are a piece of parchment and a piece of lace, it is Carmela who puts the pieces together and voila, the killer is....

Laura Childs brings the color and charm of New Orleans to her readers. Scrapbooking enthusiasts will love her creative hints. The yummy recipes add to the flavor of this delicious and fun mystery. Filled with great restaurants, customs, and characters that are easy to love or hate. I enjoyed PARCHMENT AND OLD LACE and recommend it to anyone who loves a thrilling mystery with a location that is easy - the Big Easy. It is perfect!