Detective Tommy Ledge, a veteran detective from Washington, moves to New Orleans after the passing of his wife. He is specifically requested by the goverr to investigate a mysterious death in a parish just outside of New Orleans. Detective Ledge's investigation is hampered by lies from the goverr, the inhabitants of Sugar Belle Plantation and the fear of black magic being practiced by one of its residents. Before long Detective Ledge discovers he will have to solve the case of some mysterious accidents around the horse show arena before he can conclude his investigation into the sudden death of David Rothlitt. Even someone with Detective Ledge's experience is t prepared for what he finds. Black Magic and Murder is the first in a series of books with Detective Tommy Ledge.