James Ryder

James Ryder has it all. A founding pioneer of the Oregon wine industry, he has the stately good looks of a gentleman farmer, the perfect family, an ample bank account, and the prestige of owning one of Oregon’s oldest and most respected wineries. His youngest daughter has taken up the torch to become the second generation winemaker at Ryder Estate.

The Conflict

His only problem is those pesky developers from Nevada who want to put a destination resort/spa right up the hill from his vineyard. Ryder won’t have it, as he is quick to tell Max Weatherman, a representative of the developers, during the Salmon Bake at the annual International Pinot Noir Celebration in McMinnville.

The Night of the Incident

It’s a blistering hot night. Tempers flare, fisticuffs ensue, and a short while later, Ryder is found dead, stabbed in a porta-potty at the very festival he helped found.

The Investigation

Enter the not-so-intrepid Emma Golden, a friend and admirer of Ryder. She wants to find out who killed him. But nobody can find the man who might be able to answer her questions. Max Weatherman has vanished, and a lot of people are looking for him.