Goddess Designs is a dream gone sour. Once a brilliant success, the dressmaking firm is on the verge of bankruptcy, and its sister owners Diana, Juno, and Minerva on the verge of despair. To make matters worse, Minerva is diagnosed with cancer. The sisters decide to enjoy the little time they have left and embark on a luxurious Caribbean cruise. P.I. Gwenn Ramadge is on the cruise to investigate a series of jewelry thefts. By chance, she meets Minerva, and the two feel an instant rapport. But before the friendship has a chance to develop, Minerva's body is found caught at the bottom of the pool.