When world renown musician Dolph Kluger shows up for a visit, Judith is coerced by her new neighbor Rudi Wittener into hosting a party at the Hillside Manor B & B. But hours later, Dolph collapses and it's discovered that he was poisoned with rhubarb leaves. No one can figure out who would kill this revered figure of the musical world. But there are numerous suspects.

Meanwhile, Renie has become the victim of credit card theft. And of far more value is the violin bow that has allegedly been stolen from Rudi. It had belonged to Fritz Kreisler, and is valued at three hundred and fifty thousand dollars.

Judith sinks her teeth into the case at first, but becomes frustrated by the lunatic fringe and the lack of cooperation from the survivors. Joe and Bill solve all their problems by going salmon fishing. But Judith's kind heart finally gets her back on the case, despite its many sour notes.