A Lily for the Living is the second book in Rina's Australian country tales collection, following Tarnished Threads. The story begins with the arrival of a new policeman to the group of country towns around Koondaloo. Topper, as he is known, is a man who plays his cards close to his chest. Everyone in the close-knit country area is wondering why he has been transferred from his exciting city job. It's a question he asks himself, but it wasn't a matter of choice, and Robert Toppington doesn't care what the locals think. He soon discovers that there is nothing boring about his new life. As he uncovers the secrets of the townsfolk, he struggles to keep his own past well hidden. The Fisher boys are up to their old tricks, and Ivy Stokes, the town gossip has plenty to keep her busy. Some of the newcomers are not what they seem. Opportunities are lost and gained, plans go awry and the unexpected is always just around the corner.