C. D'Angelo

Mary Pontrelli is a fiercely independent woman who runs a New Age store in the French Quarter of New Orleans. She is blindsided when the building that houses her store and apartment is listed for sale. The developer who wants to buy the building plans to demolish it, and Mary's high school ex-boyfriend, who is now a successful businessman, is leading the charge. Mary is determined to save her beloved building, but she knows that she can't do it alone. She needs to work with the other business owners in the area, but she is not used to teamwork. She is also reluctant to trust anyone, especially her ex-boyfriend. A new customer comes into Mary's store. She is a mystical woman who shares Mary's Italian heritage. The woman helps Mary to connect with her roots and to learn about the city's history. She also helps Mary to see that she needs to let go of her anger and resentment towards her ex-boyfriend. With the help of her new friend, Mary learns to trust and to work with others. She is able to save her building and to build a new community of friends and allies.