"Mourning Gloria" is the latest of Susan Wittig Albert's bestselling mysteries featuring China Bayles. A former defense attorney, China decided years ago to trade in her briefcase for gardening gloves and now owns an herb shop in Pecan Springs, Texas. Along with her best friend Ruby Wilcox, she also owns a tearoom and a catering service, and also has a booth at the new Pecan Springs Farmers' Market. China is happily married to private investigator Mike McQuaid, and is a mother to her 11-year-old niece Caitlin and Mike's teenage son Brian.

While Pecan Springs, Texas bustles back to life in the warmth of spring, one woman's life is tragically brought to an end. Herbalist (and former lawyer) China Bayles happens upon a burning house trailer and hears a woman screaming for help. The evidence leaves no doubt that it's arson homicide.

Jessica Nelson, an intern-reporter at the local paper, is assigned to cover the story. But she's gotten herself too deeply involved. When Jessica disappears, China is determined to find her, before she becomes headlines herself.