Lilacs and Lace is one of many published short stories by Lynda Douglas

When Beth Trahern inherits a New England mansion, she also becomes heir to its deadly mystery. Her life depends on uncovering a century old family secret. Her search begins with the elusive scent of lilacs.

Lilacs and Lace by Lynda Douglas
Published fall of 2000 in Futures Mysterious Anthology Magazine.

Lilacs and Lace won the Derringer Award in 2001  

Beth leaned against the crumbling chimney and peered into a black void. If she hadn’t known the chimney was directly across from the tiny entrance panel, she’d have had no point of reference at all. Like an unwitting animal, she was trapped. Her only hope of escape lay just a few feet away on the other side of the blocked opening. It may as well have been on the other side of the world.

Five days ago Emil McClure handed her the keys to the family home and congratulated her on her good fortune.
What had he said? “I hope you appreciate just how lucky you are, Beth Trahern. Another week and I would have convinced Beatrice to give up her search for an heir. Indeed, a fortuitous turn of events.”