Secrets under the Apple Tree is the first in a series of books targeting children ages 12 and up. It is written as a mystery designed to entertain as well as challenge the thinking skills of young listeners.

This book takes place in a small town in Upstate New York. The area is predominantly a farming community rich in growing fine New York State apples and grapes. Although this book does not discuss much about the farming industry or its growing apples, grapes, or other products, the book sets the foundation for future books with mystery overtones.

The main characters in the book are two boys. Corey spent the majority of his young years in New York City and is coming up to the country to spend summers with his grandparents. Bobby was born and raised in a small town and is very curious about nature. The story is centered on the family relocating from big city life, coming back to the family roots, and a friendship between the boys' fathers that dates back to Tom Albright and the now chief of police's youth.

The boys get involved with a note and map dating back years. Believing it is something their fathers buried years ago, they set out to solve the mysterious game set before them. Instead, what they find is something that involves the whole town dating back decades.