In Murder on the Prairie, the threat of development on North Florida's historic and ecologically unique Paynes Prairie State Park Preserve ignites passions, scandal, and murder. The story tells of a struggle to protect this vast marshland, on which much of Florida's early history took place, and which was first described with awe in 1774 by the naturalist William Bartram. It is also about relationships that entwine and develop, the secrets revealed, and the way in which life mirrors art. The story begins when Lorelei Woodington Crane, while starring in a production of Anton Chekhov's play, The Cherry Orchard, finds herself thrust into the center of dangerous situations which ultimately lead to murder. Mystery readers will particularly enjoy the diverse characters, and the setting of this novel which deals with concerns about Florida's land use issues, the history and ecological significance of a unique North Florida setting, and the environs of Gainesville and the University of Florida. Go Gators! Theater goers will also take pleasure in the behind the scenes look as the leading character moves between her role as lead actress in a Chekhov play and that of amateur sleuth in a real life drama. The subject of the play mirrors the protagonist's plight.This book is the first in a mystery series featuring settings and ecological issues related to North Florida.Ten percent of the profits from sales of this book will be donated, by the author, to the Sierra Club Foundation to preserve the natural environment in North Florida.