James Moushon – The Cajun Ghost - New Mystery

New Release: The Cajun Ghost

Author: James Moushon

Genre: Mystery

James is a self-published Mystery Writer and Author Advocate. He is the creator of the industry blogs: The eBook Author's Corner, the HBS Author's Spotlight and the HBS Mystery Reader's Circle.

The Cajun Ghost

A Jonathon Stone Mystery

Author: James Moushon

AVAILABLE Amazon 


ARIZONA SENATOR AND U.S. SENATORIAL CANADATE, TAD CLOSEN SHOT DOWNTOWN PHOENIX DURING PARADE

CIA Agent Jonathon Stone’s purchase of an old rifle from a gun dealer leads him on a search for the owner of the gun. When he finds the owner, a Cajun gun for hire, he discovers that he was one of the shooters in downtown Phoenix the day Senator Ted Closen was assassinated.

The rifle purchase leads to a chain of events that threaten Stone’s CIA cover, his life and puts the CIA Long Beach undercover operation in jeopardy.

As the search accelerates, fellow agent Carol Haney joins Stone on a journey that goes from California to the French quarter in New Orleans to Phoenix to the mountains in Northern Arizona.

Jonathon follows the trail through murderers, land barons, politicians and the mob to find the truth about the Cajun Ghost and the murder of Senator Closen.

Excerpt from The Cajun Ghost

Chapter One

July 4, 1986 – Phoenix, Arizona
The dark, rugged looking man knelt near the fourth floor window of an office building with his rifle at the ready. There had been a light rain in the morning but the sky was starting to clear as a large crowd gathered along the parade route below. It was monsoon season in the desert. A brisk wind moved the sounds of the people and the slow rumble of the motorcycles around the canyon of high buildings like an amphitheater.

He had built a cave of boxes around the window, creating a makeshift-hiding place. He gazed at the park across the street looking for his spotter. They had told him that the lookout would be easy to see but so far he hadn’t appeared.

His gaze was interrupted by the grind of the elevator’s motor in the back of the large, vacant room. He stood his rifle against the wall and picked up his clipboard and started toward the middle of the room. He knew that as long as he appeared to be working no one would question him. Someone had moved the elevator to the third floor, right below him. He needed to be on guard.

He returned to his shelter and looked back out the window. It wouldn’t be long until his target would be in sight. He had been a gun for hire most of his adult life after the Marines but his age was catching up with him. God, he was over fifty.

He had a clear view of the street in front of him but there was a large tree in the park that could be a problem. Some of the people sitting in the park waiting for the motorcade were looking up toward him. He moved back slightly from the window.

His plan was simple. Follow the plan. Eliminate the target. Evacuate the location. Get in position and protect your back.

Moving from one side of the strike area to the other, he checked the large room behind him and then returned to the half open window.

He wasn’t a regular employee so any hard questions would end the op but he was in a uniform with an ID provided by his client.

Again he went on alert when he heard loud voices close by. He left the window quietly, listening for the location of the conversation. It was right below him he decided. It was probably the workers who had moved the elevator to the floor below. He returned to the window.

He had been told there was a backup shooter somewhere along the route. If discovered, stop and get out. He knew all he had to do was just squeeze the trigger. Take the shot. Police the brass. Take the rifle. Execute a calm exit. Mingle with the crowd. Become one of them. Meet at the airport for his pay day.

The plan rang in his mind. He had over a hundred kills since leaving the Marines but this seemed different.

Soon his target would approach the kill zone from the west. He knelt sideways by the windowsill to avoid facing the sun. He tried to stay motionless as his heart started pounding.

This was a big opportunity and he couldn’t miss it. This meant big bucks and the kill shot was worth a bonus. That would be the icing on the cake. The birds on the roof kept flying and returning, as the noise below got louder. The glare of the sun on the window would be gone soon.

His rifle was locked and loaded. He could see the target coming from his left now as the noise from the crowd increased.

He would be patient. Take the best shot. He would be shooting down on the target. He had taken shots many times over a hundred yards. This would be much shorter. He looked to his right but the lookout still wasn’t in sight. The guy could be hidden by the trees in the park.

He could handle this by himself he thought. He would know if he hit the target. He didn’t need the spotter to tell him that.

Now he was ready to take the shot. The target had passed below him and turned left onto Central Avenue. He was moving away with his back fully exposed. The tree could be a problem but the bullet would fly right through the leaves. The rush was tremendous. He tried to control his hands. He pulled the trigger.

The shot flew through the air and hit the target. The windows rattled and the building shook with a noise that sounded like an explosion. The pigeons above flew away with a loud, rushing sound. The target had slumped to his left.

Sirens started whaling and the roar of the motorcycles filled the air. The crowd below was falling to the ground and running in all directions. Mothers were grabbing their children while others ducked for cover. It was complete chaos.

He thought he heard another shot but with all the noise, he wasn’t sure. He paused a second then started his escape.

He moved quickly to the rear of the room toward the elevators. He broke the rifle down and put it in his tool box. The elevators were still on the floor below. He had no time to bring one up to his floor so he headed for the backstairs with the tool box in one hand and the clipboard in the other.

Halfway down the stairs, he heard loud talking. He ducked into the empty lunchroom just before a policeman with a drawn gun entered. He needed to stay calm. He tried not to change expressions as the officer approached him. The cop quickly checked his employee badge. Then he nodded and rushed by him. The employee uniform and badge had worked.

He had been trained if you have something in your hand you don’t appear out of place. He moved to the vending machine, bought a coke and headed down the backstairs to the first floor. He proceeded to the front of the building toward the main entrance. Only one person was left in the office and she was talking to a policeman. He was trying to look natural and not rush. The police encounter had been too close.

As he got to the entrance of the building, he heard loud screams and saw people moving in all directions. He moved into the crowd as a policeman approached him. He hoped he didn’t have to pull the pistol hidden under his shirt. The officer rushed right by him, brushing his shoulder as he passed, and entered the building as the ex-marine took a deep breath.

He had been told that the rifle was untraceable. He thought for a second. He had picked up his brass. The plan was right on schedule. And it seemed like everyone was focused on the parking deck across the street.

He walked quickly into the park and like a ghost, disappeared into the throng of people.

The next day, the local Phoenix paper’s headline read:

ARIZONA SENATOR AND U.S. SENATORIAL CANADATE, TAD CLOSEN SHOT DOWNTOWN

Author Genre: Historical Fiction, Mystery & Thrillers

Website: James Moushon - Mystery Writer
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Twitter: @jimhbs
E-Mail: james.moushon@gmail.com
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Author Description: James Moushon is a Mystery writer and an Author Advocate.

Starting over 15 years ago, he helped lead the startup of the electronic forms industry in the creation, conversion and usage of electronic forms by supplying that industry with a continuing source of published literature, software products and training seminars.

In 2003, Moushon changed his focus to ebooks and their development.

He is the author of the Jonathon Stone Mystery Novels. He has published three books: 'Black Mountain Secrets', 'Game of Fire', ‘The Cajun Ghost’ and 'Operation Alpha Dog', a collection of short stories all featuring Jonathon Stone, CIA undercover agent.

He is currently wearing two Hats. He is a mystery writer and a book publishing blogger. You can find his blogs at:

HBS Author's Spotlight
The blog's purpose is to help authors get exposure in the book publishing industry. He has interviewed and showcased over 450 authors to date.

HBS Mystery Reader's Circle
The HBS Mystery Reader's Circle provides information about the latest novels and what is coming next from a collection of Bestselling and Outstanding Authors in the Mystery, Thrillers, Historical Fiction and Crime genre.

eBook Author's Corner
The Corner is a collection of Author advice and studies including Marketing, Social Media and other major topics created to help writers in today's ever changing world of book publishing.

He has spent the majority of his adult life developing computer systems and thinking about writing mysteries.





Author's Book List
 
Operation Alpha Dog - A Jonathon Stone Mystery
Operation Hidden TruthA plea bargain turns deadly and a known gun runner is the primary suspect. Jonathon Stone becomes involved with the FBI to try to catch the elusive terrorist. With espionage and government secrets in play, the DHS suddenly becomes a problem. Jonathon needs to be on top of his game for this op.

Operation MisdirectionA female CIA agent is found dead in a motel in Long Beach and her husband, a Long Beach detective, quickly becomes the prime suspect. Jonathon Stone is given the task of investigating the murder of one of his own. His findings reveal the dead agent’s unscheduled trips to the Middle East, a cover up by the FBI and espionage.

Operation AdriftAn empty cargo ship suddenly appears in the LA Harbor. Problem: apparently there are no passengers or crew. Jonathon Stone finds out that the ship was abandoned at sea and the CIA had been tracking the vessel from the Far East. The op seems to be stalled until Jonathon gets information from an unexpected source which leads him to a terrorist plot on American soil.

Operation Red DragonJonathon Stone’s plans for a quiet gambling experience is interrupted by the sighting of a known gun for hire from Mexico. A casual weekend in the desert for Jonathon changes into an apparent assassination plot. With the FBI and the Secret Service involved, Jonathon tries to apprehend the elusive hit man before he can do damage.

Operation RunawayNSA information leaked by a spy sends Jonathon Stone and his fellow agent, Chuck Chun to Hawaii to stop the flow of information. Is our suspect a whistleblower or is it espionage? Their assignment: neutralize and stop the flow of information. At a luau in Paradise, they get help from an unlikely source before Jonathon and Chuck can complete their mission.

Operation DeadlineA hit and run death of a man on the CIA’s watch list sends Jonathon Stone on another op. This time he teams with FBI Agent Jodi Shannon. They quickly find out it was a planned murder and the victim was part of an investigative reporter’s study of a Middle Eastern student group. Then, a second murder with a similar MO occurs and Jonathon is sent in a different direction.


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Game of Fire - A Jonathon Stone MysteryAn explosion and fire rocks a Southern California mall and it is quickly determined it is arson. The timing of the incident is special because it interrupts the Tet New Year’s Festival and Parade in Little Saigon, an area just east of Long Beach.

Had the old wounds of Vietnam been opened again or was there a different game being played?

Enter veteran CIA Agent Jonathon Stone. Already in pursuit of the gun-running Minh family, he connects with a special FBI task force to assist in the investigation of the explosion and Minh quickly becomes their number one suspect.

Stone teams up with FBI Agent Jodi Shannon to pursue the people behind the arson fire. Jodi is a serious, no nonsense agent who leads the FBI Arson Task Force. While she fights to solve the mystery, she also fights Stone’s advances. As always, he tries to mix business with pleasure.

As the game takes its twists and turns, Stone’s assignment leads to a shootout in Las Vegas and a car chase down the coast of Southern California.

Jonathon Stone battles his love for gambling and drinking and the ladies to help solve the Mystery of the Game of Fire.


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Black Mountain Secrets - A Jonathon Stone MysteryCIA Agent Jonathon Stone goes undercover to help in an FBI investigation after a fellow agent is murdered on the Colorado River.

Stone continues the agent’s investigation of suspects who are stealing top-secret documents from a secret Army base in the middle of the Mohave Desert. The trail leads him from the rugged Black Mountains of Nevada to Laughlin, a gambling oasis on the Colorado.

As things heat up in this desert paradise, Stone dodges bullets and attempts on his life until he reaches the ultimate showdown. Jonathon Stone truly needs lady luck on his side to catch the spies and get through this ordeal alive.

Mystery Writer James Moushon brings to life Jonathon Stone, an undercover CIA agent assigned to the off the books CIA division – DOT.

He throws Stone right into the middle of action. As the mystery unfolds, Stone uses his wealth of knowledge and keen analytical mind to complete his dangerous assignments, while at the same time battling his love for gambling and drinking and the ladies.


Book Trailer: Black Mountain Secrets 



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Mystery Reader’s Circle

New Mystery/Thriller from Barbara Winkes!

Title: Amber Alert

Author:Barbara Winkes

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

Release Date: February 1, 2016

~~BLURB~~

When her two-year-old niece is kidnapped, Major Crimes Detective Ann McCoy uses every bit of leverage she has with Agent Cal Davis to stay on the case. More children are missing. Their parents, like Ann’s sister and her wife, are desperate for answers.

While the investigators look at the disturbing possibilities, a pattern emerges. They find an organization hidden in plain sight that has no boundaries when it comes to pushing their agenda-even at the cost of harming families and children.

Buy Now: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BE15V3Y/


~~EXCERPT~~
Cal sets a mug of steaming coffee in front of me.

“After this, I want you to go home,” he says, adding “Hear me out?” when I jump to my feet, ready to give him all the reasons why I shouldn’t.

“Your sister and her wife have already been interviewed, but there might be a gap that only you can close. I want you to think hard, about the cases you’ve worked, who got out of prison lately, anyone who is likely to link you to them. Find everyone who ever threw a homophobic slur at them.”

The thought makes me flinch, but I nod and sit back down. “Do you have any suspicion? I thought Martinez said the parents weren’t-”

“I don’t know yet. There were two single mothers, one gay couple, and one het. Then, Chrissie and Rachel. It’s not a pattern.”

“But…?” I prompt. It’s a world I don’t inhabit, but I hear things from Rachel, Chrissie and their friends sometimes. They are frustrated how some groups who pretend to care about faith and family, spread lies about same-sex couples and families. Usually, they don’t revert to crime. The overall lack of equality for these families has for a long time protected the hate-mongers. Not so much anymore since the Supreme Court’s marriage decision.

They might be deluded and angry, but not stupid enough to break the law--or are they? I can’t imagine them going as far as actually snatching children.

“No ‘but’. Just make sure you cover all angles.”

“Will do. God,” I say, “This is a nightmare. I worked on a couple of kidnapping cases.” “What happened?” he asks.

I take a long sip of the coffee, before I answer. “One was a custody battle gone bad. The dad turned himself in and brought back the boy.”

“…and the other one?”

“Didn’t come back.”

He lays a hand on my shoulder, squeezing gently, and I get up once more. I don’t want to get into any details, not now, not ever. What’s equally as important, I don’t want to give him any reasons to cut me off. I finish my coffee and say goodbye, picking up my keys and jacket on the way out.

As I’m driving out to Chrissie and Rachel’s, I’m pondering the homework he’s given me. Is it more than just a distraction? I’m sure Cal and his team are just as aware of any dangerous individual out there as I am, if not a lot more so. No one stands out, and there’s no one who has threatened me personally, or seems likely to do so. We’re aware of hate crimes in the area, but those are usually somewhere in between damage to property and violent assaults.

Rachel and Chrissie go pretty much under the radar, as far as I know. They don’t go out much, especially since they have Rosie. Why them? My train of thought inevitably brings me back to the most horrifying ideas. There are criminals who stop at nothing, people who think that money should buy them everything…and it does. There’s always the theory of the single offender.

Someone new in town? I park in the same spot as just yesterday, a little over twenty-four hours ago. The light has changed, and I only now realize how many hours have passed. My fears are screaming at me, It’s been too long already, but I have to ignore them. I have to go face the parents of a missing two-year-old, and I’ll have to ask them some hard questions.

Their friend Paula is with them, which gives me a pang of guilt for showing up so late. There’s nothing new I have for them, and what I’ve heard earlier, they can’t know. Everyone is subdued, so I try to bring up the subject as diplomatically as possible. I know they’ve had some heated online discussions, enough reason for me to rarely use the Internet for private purposes. There are just too many unpleasant people out there.

“I don’t know what you want, Ann,” Chrissie says. She’s tired, frustrated and scared. It’s showing.

“We don’t start that kind of dispute, and we’ve only answered a few times when somebody sought us out.”

“Lately, was there someone in particular?”

“Don’t you think I’ve asked myself that a million times?” Her voice is rising. “No, there isn’t anyone. Don’t tell me you’re wasting your time looking there. Yes, it’s annoying when people feel compelled to tell you that you’re going to hell. It sucks big time. Those are teenage bullies, and they’re also proud grandfathers, or wives. Unfortunately, it’s not a crime to be a self-righteous asshole, but other than that, they stick to the law. Don’t you watch the news? The ‘turn away the gays’ bills kept popping up even before we had marriage equality, and now there are still many places where you can get married, but also fired or evicted just for being gay. So far, the law works fine for them.”

Rachel and Paula exchange a look, and then Rachel gets up and says, “Honey, I’m sure Ann is hungry. Why don’t you stay here with Paula for a moment?” I have the suspicion that food is the last thought on her mind. No one here cares about food at this moment. When the kitchen door is closed, she wipes a hand over her face before giving me an intent look.

“Okay, tell me the truth. What are we looking at?”

“I told you. There is no news, and you’d be the first to know anyway.” “Really,” Rachel says. I don’t like the sarcasm. “Why are you asking these questions? We both know that it’s not the haters’ M.O. They are happy with leaving a few hateful comments on Facebook, not even knowing how far they’ve gotten their heads up their asses. They won’t even take responsibility for themselves, why would they kidnap a child?”

I let her speak while wondering if I paid so little attention before. I didn’t know she was so angry, or Chrissie, for that matter.

“It’s not that, right?”

“We must consider every angle.” I keep it vague, for her sake and mine.

“We took down the balloons just this morning,” she says, fiddling with her wedding ring. “I can’t stop thinking about that man. What if he’s one of those sickos who--”

“No,” I say firmly. “No. Right now, there’s only very little that we know, so let’s not jump to conclusions.” I can tell from her expression that there’s more.

“Look, if you have any idea, no matter how vague it is, now would be the moment--” “How can you even think that?” she snaps. “I’ve been going over every little detail, every possibility, a million times. We don’t exactly make enemies on a daily basis. You know a lot more about these things than we do, but you’re not telling us anything, just asking questions. You have no idea how much that scares me...I went on the Internet. Chrissie doesn’t know about it.” She swallows hard. “There are some sick people out there. ‘Baby brokers’?”

“Don’t do that.” It’s not a suggestion. “I know it’s hard.”

The look she gives me says clearly “You don’t know anything.”

For what it’s worth, I have to try.

“You can’t do this. You’re going to drive yourself crazy. It’s not the time to think of worst case scenarios. We’ll bring her home, Rachel!” Damn all those cop shows for spelling out all the horrible possibilities in more detail than anyone can bear.

“I can’t take this much longer.” She turns away from my gaze.

“It will be okay.” If we say it a few more times, we might be able to make ourselves believe. Rachel gives me a grateful smile that doesn’t quite cover the underlying emotions of fear and despair.

“Is there something I can fix you?”

“No, thanks. I’ll have something on the way back. It’s going to be-” A long night, I almost say, but stop myself in time. Tonight, tomorrow, no one of us has an idea, but it’s nothing I can say out loud in this house. I follow her back into the living room where the trace is set up. The tension in the room is palpable.

~~ABOUT THE AUTHOR~~

A psychologist/trauma counselor by training, Barbara Winkes left her native Germany to live with her wife in Québec City. Telling stories has always been her passion. She loves to write suspense and romance with female protagonists who try to solve the puzzle of their love life, a murder case, or sometimes, both.

Buy Amber Alert: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BE15V3Y/

Contact Barbara:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Barbara-Winkes-Author-page-289940881121860/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/demeter94
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Barbara-Winkes/e/B00A6D1Z28/

Book Tour - Mystery - Deadly Portfolio

July 2008. Four families are riding high on heady market returns until the body of Rene McAllister, wife of multi-millionaire Alan “Mac” McAllister, washes up on the beach after a daylong Fourth-of-July bash at the home of stockbroker, Matthew Wirth. Eager to avoid publicity, authorities dismiss her death as an accident. Days later, when the body of college drop out, Jamie Sherman, a neighbor to Wirth, is discovered adrift in his fishing skiff, investigators suspect foul play, but the Medical Examiner reports that the youth died of a drug overdose. Only Detective James Raker, upon hearing McAllister’s complaints of unauthorized trading in his deceased wife’s account, suspects the two deaths are related. Bucking his superiors, Raker plunges into an investigation and quickly discovers that at least four members of the affluent lakeside community had motive and opportunity in either one or both of the deaths. Raker’s pursuit slams headlong into an investigation being conducted by the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) who were closing in on Jamie Sherman’s drug dealings in the affluent neighborhood.

Ignoring the orders to drop his investigation, Raker fears that the killer will attack again and races to prevent it. The killer does strike for a third time but, tragically, claims the wrong victim. The story is set in the fictitious bedroom community on Heron Lake, NC, a short commute from Charles City, a metropolitan area of more than 1,000,000 and the financial center of the state.

You can pick up your copy of the book here.

Smashwords  http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/459472

Amazon (paperback)  http://www.amazon.com/Deadly-Portfolio-Killing-Hedge-Funds/dp/1461073693/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1415979177&sr=8-1&keywords=Deadly+Portfolio

Amazon Kindle http://www.amazon.com/Deadly-Portfolio-Killing-Hedge-Funds-ebook/dp/B005MSNXQ8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1415979449&sr=8-1&keywords=Deadly+Portfolio+Kindle

I have been writing all of my life. I first published at the age of 10 in a nationally distributed magazine. I grew up in Yankton, South Dakota where I graduated from high school and went on to secure a degree in English from St. John University (MN), 1961. After teaching for three years, I entered the world of business and spent over 40 years in the financial services industry. During my career, I held positions with The Travelers, Blue Shield/Blue Cross of Minnesota, Wilson Learning Corporation and Wachovia Bank and Trust. In 2007, I retired from Merrill Lynch after 15 years with the Winston-Salem, NC, office where I started my own group that served several hundred clients up and down the east coast. Since retirement, I have concentrated on my writing which has been a life long passion and avocation.

I published a small volume of poetry in 2000. My first novel, "Deadly Portfolio: A Killing in Hedge Funds," came out September, 2011, and I followed up with the sequel, "Breached," in October, 2014. I am planning yet another book which I hope to have published in 2016. Meanwhile, I will continue to post articles on the internet and my own web site, www.jjhohn.com, including book and drama reviews, autobiographical sketches and other non-fiction pieces. My poetry has garnered a few awards over the years and I will continue composing in the years to come.

 

Web site -- http://www.jjhohn.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnjhohn

Twitter:@writerjohnj

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=90345196&trk=spm_pic

Deadly Portfolio Excerpt

“Hello,” McAllister said, his voice weak and raspy on the other end of the line.

“Mac, this is Matthew. Mac . . . ah . . . we have something to tell you. It’s about Rene, Mac. Ah . . . do you have anyone there with you now?”

“No. Why? Did she finally show up?”

“She’s dead, Mac. She drowned sometime last night. Shirley found her body this morning down by the Sherman dock.”

“Dead? You’re sure it’s her?”

“It’s her, Mac. No mistake. Do you want me to come get you?”

“At your place?”

“Yes. Well . . . no, actually . . . down next to Sherman’s dock. The police and EMS people are here right now. Do you want me to come get you?”

“Oh . . . no! My God . . . no. I’m OK. I’ll be right there.”

“Come to our house first.”

“Right. Your house. I will.”

Matthew heard McAllister pull up and went out to meet him. “Do you want to come into the house?” he asked.

“No. I want to see Rene.”

“She’s dead, Mac. There’s nothing to see. Nothing you’d want to see.”

“No. I want to see her.”

“You need to prepare yourself. She’s . . . she’s all covered with sand and wet and . . . well . . . she looks pretty bad.” McAllister peered over Matthew’s shoulder to catch a glimpse of what was going on at the lakeshore. “Come on then. I’ll go with you.”

The police cordoned off the area of the beach where Rene’s body was found with yellow and black ribbon. The crowd continued to collect and gawk at the EMS and police. Matthew and McAllister pushed their way through the people toward the beach. Matthew was surprised at the size of the area that the police isolated. The ribbon stretched from the Sherman dock, up into the yard to a folding chair, and then at an angle to a tree on the lot line between the Sherman property and Clay’s. Officer Fletcher was walking the length of the Sherman dock with the roll of ribbon closing the area at the end of the dock so that the water immediately in front of the body would be in the restricted zone. Detective Raker looked up as Matthew and McAllister approached.

“You need to respect that barrier,” Raker called out.

“That’s my wife.”

Raker rose to his feet immediately and walked over to confront McAllister. “You’re McAllister?” he asked.

“Yes. Alan McAllister. Can I see her?”

“At the moment, no, sir. I’m sorry. We need to make certain we can move her without disturbing the scene . . . so it will not be compromised. It won’t take long,” Raker explained. “I’m sorry. Your wife’s been dead for several hours, apparently from drowning. Why don’t you and your friend go back to the house. When we’re through here, we’ll let you know. You can view your wife’s body before we take it to the medical examiner.”

McAllister strained to see Rene’s body that lay more than 50 feet away in the sand. “This is an accident, isn’t it? Why the police?”

“Just routine,” Raker replied. “Please, the quicker we can get on with it, the better. I’ll want to talk to you in a few minutes.” Matthew put his hand on McAllister’s shoulder and nudged him to turn. Mac conceded reluctantly, and the two men trudged back to the deck where Shirley was standing. She had been joined by Joyce Sherman. “Have you had breakfast or anything?” Matthew asked.

“No. I’m not hungry.”

“Well, come sit down. A cup of coffee, maybe?”

“Fine.”

“I’m so sorry,” Joyce whispered as he stepped onto the deck. “I’m so very sorry.” McAllister walked over to a chair and sat down. Moments later, Shirley reappeared on the deck with two steaming cups of coffee. The four sat silently for several minutes.

“So she wasn’t breathing or anything . . . when you found her?” McAllister asked.

“No,” Matthew replied.

“How did you find her?”

“I found her, Mac,” Shirley said. “I was up early taking a walk along the shore. At first, I didn’t know what I was seeing. She was lying face down in the water just a few feet out where it’s shallow. I thought it was a sail or something from a boat . . . something from all the traffic on the lake yesterday . . . but as I drew closer, I recognized Rene’s dress.” Shirley words were becoming more difficult. Tears welled up in her eyes. “My heart just stopped. But I had to see . . . and I walked right up to the water’s edge. Then . . . then I knew, and I called for Matthew right away.”

“We dragged her up on the beach,” Matthew said. “I could see that she was dead, Mac. Her lips were blue. She wasn’t breathing. He skin was all pasty . . . like it had been under water for a long time. We called 911 . . . and then I called you.”

“My God, who would’ve thought?” McAllister groaned. “I mean . . . I thought she’d gone off somewhere. That I’d find her at home . . . or near the house. I went out looking for her, but I never thought anything like this would . . .” Mac said as his voice trailed off.

“Everybody did everything they could to find her last night,” Joyce said. “We looked everywhere.”

McAllister waved off her remarks. “I just can’t bring myself to believe it. I know that’s her down there . . . but somehow . . . I don’t know . . . I just can’t quite get around it. What’s the matter with me?” he said looking up at Matthew.

“You need time is all,” Matthew responded. “More time.”

“You know . . . we didn’t get along well these last few years . . . but I never would’ve wished this on her. She was pretty drunk last night, wasn’t she?” Matthew, Shirley and Joyce looked at one another, surprised by Mac’s apparent indifference to what was happening.

“Very,” Matthew replied softly.

“I wonder if she suffered,” McAllister said.

From the deck the activities of the police and EMS team could be seen over the heads of the onlookers. Matthew noticed that the two EMS attendants had eased Rene’s body into a black body bag, zipped it shut, and lifted it onto a gurney.

“I’ve always heard drowning is a very peaceful death,” Joyce offered.

“Not one I’d choose,” McAllister growled. “What’s going on down there?” he asked and stood up to see for himself. Detective Raker was holding the black and yellow ribbon high above his head so that the EMS attendants could roll the gurney underneath it. They headed for the ambulance, pushing their way through the crowd toward the deck. When they reached the house, Raker had them stop, came up on the deck, walked over to McAllister, and asked him quietly if he still wanted to see the body.

“Yes,” McAllister said and followed Raker off of the deck to the gurney.

“God,” McAllister moaned. Sand still covered much of her face, and her hair remained plastered to her forehead. “God, it hardly looks like her.” He looked again. It was she. Rene. His wife. Dead.

He could not look at her any more. He stepped back and nodded to Detective Raker who, in turn, nodded to the EMS attendants. One of them stepped forward and pulled the zipper up the front of the bag and closing it over Rene’s face. McAllister felt Matthew’s hand on his shoulder.

“Come on, ol’ man,” Matthew said. “Let’s go sit down.” Back on the deck, they heard the ambulance doors slamming closed and the vehicle’s engine fire up. As they heard it accelerate down the street, they—Mac most of all—felt themselves surrendering Rene out of their care. A finality overtook them. McAllister drew a deep breath and slumped back into his chair.

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#NewRelease ~ Crime & Passion ~ Murder Mystery/Romance

It's official! Crime & Passion, my new romantic suspense/mystery, is now available everywhere. I had a great time writing this book, as followers of my blog know. I've very excited to present this novel. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did. 

A decorated police officer, more intent on justice than following the letter of the law, lands in trouble when a schoolteacher finds a dead body on the beach.

Officer Donovan Andrews knows how to have a good time—ask any woman in town. But when it comes to men abusing their wives or children, Donovan takes it upon himself to make them regret it.

Madeline Scott is unlucky in love. All she wants is a quiet place to heal, away from cheating, womanizing men. However, her life is far from peaceful once she stumbles across the body and witnesses someone fleeing the scene.

Terror spreads in Pleasant View when the small community hears a killer is on the loose. All evidence points to Donovan, and he realizes someone is trying to frame him. When troubling suspicions from his past surface, even fellow officers believe he’s guilty. Madeline might be the only person who can clear his name, but first he has to win her trust.

The body count rises and no one is safe. The murderer makes it clear Madeline is next. Soon, Donovan’s whole world is focused on protecting her and keeping himself out of prison. The more time he spends with her, the harder it is to fight his growing attraction. Since she’s been burned by love, convincing Madeline he’s interested in something more than hot sex may prove harder than keeping her alive.

Place to purchase:

Amazon Kindle: http://amzn.to/Z24vsP

Amazon Paperback in Createspace Store: http://bit.ly/ZJDjOp

Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/Ys0lHs

KOBO: http://bit.ly/Y8qWNB

All Romance eBooks: http://bit.ly/YnS2iX

Add it on Goodreads: http://bit.ly/14ZgyHW  

Read the first three chapters: http://www.chantelrhondeau.com/2013/03/crime-passion-romantic-suspense-and.html

Also, please take a little bit of time to browse through the list of authors' blogs/web sites in the column to the right here. I've put down the genre they write in so you can look at the ones who write the genre you prefer, or explore something new! These great folks have been working hard all weekend, helping me spread the word about Crime & Passion being available. I can't thank them enough!

Today, you can find me chatting with Melinda Dozier and the hero from this book, Donovan Andrews, over on Melinda's blog! Don't miss this http://melindadozier.blogspot.com/2013/03/crime-passion-by-chantel-rhondeau-book.html?spref=fb

Happy reading, friends. Normally, I'm not all too happy about it being Monday, but I'm so excited about this book being available, that I've been on a bit of a high. Have a fantastic week!

~~ Chantel ~~

Crime & Passion ~ romantic suspense and murder mystery

Happy hump day, everyone! 

Well, last night I submitted Crime & Passion to the various vendors for publication. It could be available at any time now, but let's all keep our fingers crossed that it is ready by my official release date of Friday, the 15th. I've made a few changes in the last few days after my copy editor finished up, but it's finally ready! I'm so excited for people to read this book and I hope a lot of my readers will be willing to reach out to me and let me know what they think. Every so often, someone contacts me about Always & Forever, and it always gives me a thrill to talk to the people who are reading my story.

Crime & Passion is such a different type of book from Always & Forever. Honestly, I'm sad in a way that it's over, but I'm satisfied with how everything turned out and anxious to get to work on the next book, Love & Deception, which will be available this fall in September.

For those of you who don't want to wait until Friday to get started on Crime & Passion, I'm posting the first three chapters of the finalized version.

First, here's the 'back cover' blurb:

A decorated police officer, more intent on justice than following the letter of the law, lands in trouble when a schoolteacher finds a dead body on the beach.

Officer Donovan Andrews knows how to have a good time—ask any woman in town. But when it comes to men abusing their wives or children, Donovan takes it upon himself to make them regret it.

Madeline Scott is unlucky in love. All she wants is a quiet place to heal, away from cheating, womanizing men. However, her life is far from peaceful once she stumbles across the body and witnesses someone fleeing the scene.

Terror spreads in Pleasant View when the small community hears a killer is on the loose. All evidence points to Donovan, and he realizes someone is trying to frame him. When troubling suspicions from his past surface, even fellow officers believe he’s guilty. Madeline might be the only person who can clear his name, but first he has to win her trust.

The body count rises and no one is safe. The murderer makes it clear Madeline is next. Soon, Donovan’s whole world is focused on protecting her and keeping himself out of prison. The more time he spends with her, the harder it is to fight his growing attraction. Since she’s been burned by love, convincing Madeline he’s interested in something more than hot sex may prove harder than keeping her alive.

When I woke up this morning, it was already available on Amazon Kindle http://amzn.to/Z24vsP and also as a trade paperback from the Createspace store https://www.createspace.com/4160971 I hope you enjoy this sample! 

Crime & Passion

© Chantel Rhondeau 2013

Chapter One
The glassy eyes of the corpse seemed to stare at Madeline. A brisk breeze carried the scent of salt and fish, and blew her long hair around her face. Crashing waves were the only sound on the deserted beach other than panting from Madeline’s four-legged companion. Water lapped at the dead man’s feet, devouring him bit by bit as the tide rose.

“Are you there, Ms. Scott?” the 911 dispatcher asked.

“Yes, I’m here,” Madeline whispered. “Please send someone quickly. The tide’s coming in.”

“We have a unit in the area. Don’t touch anything.”

As if I would. Madeline shivered at the horrified look on the man’s face. Pleasant View was a small coastal town. It was the type of place where everyone knew their neighbors, but Madeline had only moved here two months earlier.

Too bad she hadn’t met this particular resident under different circumstances. Yellow and blue nylon rope wrapped around the man’s neck cut off his air supply forever, ending whatever type of life the handsome blond might have had.

Madeline looked back up the beach, thinking about what she saw. When she had approached this area, she noticed a slightly built person jogging away. She shuddered again. If that person were responsible, they couldn’t have killed the blond long before she walked up.

Brutus strained at his leash, bringing her back to the present as he tried to get closer to the body. Madeline could only guess the smell of the recently deceased drove the Great Dane crazy.

She tugged on his leash. “Sit, Brutus.”

The big, black dog heaved a sigh and lowered his back haunches, looking up at Madeline reproachfully.

She heaved a sigh of her own. At 160 pounds, the muscular Great Dane allowed her the illusion of control while she held the leash, but really, Madeline maintained power only at the dog’s behest.

A police cruiser pulled into the parking area. Two officers hopped out and made their way down the beach. An ambulance stopped behind them and medics poured from the vehicle, assembling their equipment.

Not that it would do them much good. The man was beyond requiring medical attention. He needed a coroner.

“The police are here,” she said into the phone.

“That’s good, Miss Scott. We can hang up now. Have a nice day.”

Yeah, right. A nice day? Sure. Because she stumbled across bodies all the time and this was no big deal. Madeline shuddered. The man had been warm when she checked for a pulse, and the image of his sightless gaze was sure to haunt her dreams.

She put the cell phone into her pocket and watched as the rescue people ran down the beach. There was no reason for them to hurry, except for the rising tide.

The first officer approached, his attention focused solely on her. He didn’t even glance at the body. “Miss Scott, is it? Dispatch said you discovered the body?” He gave a friendly smile as he closed the remaining distance between them. “I’m sorry. That must’ve been a shock.”

Madeline nodded. “Yes, it was, Officer...”

“Andrews, Donovan Andrews.” He stuck out his hand and gave another reassuring smile.

Madeline smiled back, trying to offer some reassurance of her own as she shook his hand. No, Officer Andrews, I’m not going to faint. I promise I won’t complicate your crime scene by breaking into hysterics. Madeline almost laughed, though she wished she really could faint.

She shivered and hugged her arms tightly to her body. Having been idle for several minutes, the bite of the cold wind chilled her skin. While she and Brutus trotted along at a quick pace, she'd been warm enough. Now, Madeline wished she’d brought a jacket.

Officer Andrews must have noticed. He slipped his arms from his black windbreaker and slung it around Madeline’s shoulders, battling the wind to wrap it around her. He adjusted the collar against her neck and his fingers brushed her skin lightly, sending a tingle of awareness through her. The gesture, and her body’s reaction to it, caught her off guard. Madeline took a step back, avoiding his touch.

“Sorry,” he said. “You look like you’re freezing. I know it’s April, but you really shouldn’t go around without a jacket in the evening, Miss. It gets mighty cold.”

Madeline grabbed the edges of his jacket and pulled it tightly against her. His spicy scent tickled her senses as it wafted up from the fabric. “Thanks. I’ll remember that. Normally I run with Brutus and don’t stand around long enough to get cold. Next time I find a body, I’ll keep running.”

“Touché.” A grin flashed across his face briefly. “Seriously, though, are you okay?”

She nodded and looked up at him, pleasantly surprised she had to look up. At five foot ten, Madeline was a giant compared to most women. She’d long since given up the dream of being one of those petite, delicate things men loved to wrap their arms around.

Andrews was very tall with a slender body. His police uniform didn’t offer much in the way of discovering what his body looked like, but Madeline sensed a core of strength. At least if she dated him she could wear heels.

And where did that thought come from?

Activity whirled next to them as the EMS team attended to the body. Officer Andrews spared a glance for the corpse, and his blue eyes tightened around the corners. His face paled and when he met Madeline’s eyes again, he looked shaken.

“Did you know him?” she asked.

The officer nodded.

Great question, genius. In a town of less than 3000, of course he knew the victim.

Andrews put his arm around Madeline’s shoulders. “Why don’t I take you and your friend up to sit in the police cruiser? It’ll be warmer in there, and I need to ask you some questions.”

Madeline nodded. It seemed odd that this man would put his arm around her like this, having just met her, but she appreciated his calming presence as he led her to the car. Brutus followed along without complaint, and Madeline allowed herself to lean on Officer Andrews. She forgave herself for acting so girly in that moment.

After all, she did just discover a body.

*** 

Donovan looked at Miss Scott through the police cruiser window and ran a hand over his hair. Frank Johnson, murdered? He wasn’t surprised someone killed the bastard, but this could create problems for Donovan.

He took one last look at Madeline before turning toward the beach. Miss Scott was a rare find. She must be new in town. Donovan would remember those long legs and pouty red lips, had he seen them before. Her deep brown eyes had kept him steady when he realized just whose body the tide slowly covered.

“Donovan, did you see who that is?” Eric Sanders shifted back and forth in his excitement. “Just think. You kicked his ass yesterday and now that sucker’s dead.”

Donovan glanced at his new partner and grimaced. Frank certainly deserved the punch Donovan gave him. However, after only working with Eric for one month, Donovan didn’t trust him to have his back.

“Maybe we shouldn’t talk about that, huh?” Donovan looked into Eric’s hazel eyes.

“Worried?” Eric brushed sand off his hands onto his blue uniform and shook his head. “You were out of my sight for over twenty minutes before the call came in. I’d worry too.”

“Out of your sight? I was in the bathroom. You know I’ve been sick since we ate at the taco wagon earlier.”

“You were in the bathroom just up the street. Plenty of time for you to whack him. That could be a problem.” Eric shook his head. “I bet his wife says something when they talk to her. She was pissed at you yesterday.”

An aggressive wave surged up the shoreline and angled for Donovan’s foot. He stepped back, but Eric, whose back was turned, ended up soaked.

Donovan grinned. Petty vengeance perhaps, but he felt a little better watching his partner jump around, cursing the cold water. It was definitely a good thing he came down to talk to Eric before questioning Madeline. He didn’t want Eric voicing this suspicion about what kind of time Donovan had unaccounted for. It wasn’t as though he did anything, but every rookie dreamed of nabbing a crooked cop.

“Look, Eric, I wasn’t at that house by myself yesterday. You could have done something just as easily while I was in the bathroom.” Donovan raised an eyebrow. “Can someone in the restaurant account for your whereabouts the entire time?”

Tugging on the collar of his shirt, Eric shook his head. “I don’t know.”

Well, thank God for small favors. “Then I think it’s best we stick together on this one, don’t you? Besides, Frank Johnson deserved to be punched for hitting his daughter.”

Eric nodded. “Sure thing, partner. I was happy when you decked him, but Stephanie Johnson heard you make that threat about him watching his back in dark alleys. You know she’s going to mention it, ‘cause she got so pissed.”

It was the same story every time. Dispatch sent Donovan to the Johnson’s house for a report of domestic violence, but when he got there, no one admitted anything. Stephanie always claimed she made a mistake and Frank hadn’t touched her. Unable to find evidence he abused the kids, Donovan had to leave when Stephanie told him to.

Frank’s luck ran out yesterday. The youngest child had a fresh bruise across her forehead, and Donovan called Child Services. They quickly arrived to take the children into custody, having been waiting for an excuse to seize them for the past year.

Once everyone left, Frank made threats against the police department and said the kids were his property. He said it was his right to treat them any way he wanted.

Donovan tore into him without thinking and threatened to kill him if he ever touched Stephanie or the children again. Though Frank made threats to turn Donovan in, he never called the station to report the incident. The few times he’d had altercations with Frank in the past, Donovan’s old partner always backed up his side of the story and he never received a formal reprimand. Now, however, Stephanie was sure to tell everyone what happened, and Donovan didn’t think he could trust Eric to help him.

He looked at his young partner. “You’ve only been here a month, Eric. Trust me, there’s not a soul in town who liked that asshole. Plenty of people would’ve liked to see him dead.” Donovan took a deep breath and tried to convince himself everything would be okay. “Henry and I went out to that house over twenty times in the last year. And that wasn’t the first time I hit Frank.”

“Yeah, but it’s the first time he’s ended up dead,” Eric muttered.

Donovan cranked his neck sideways, popping his jaw. Eric had a point. “I didn’t do this.”

“I just hope Stephanie doesn’t throw suspicion on us, because I didn’t do it either.”

“Even if she does report it, that still doesn’t mean people should suspect us. I really was sick today, and I promise I never left the restaurant. Can I count on you to not say anything about me being in the bathroom so long?”

“Yeah. We have to stick together. That’s what partners do, right?”

He grinned and clapped Eric on the shoulder. “Exactly.”

Donovan looked over at the body, relieved to see the coroner crouched next to it. Now they could try to piece together what happened.

“I’m going to interview the witness. Why don’t you deal with the coroner?” Donovan suggested.

Eric snorted. “’Course you’d pick the pretty lady and leave me with a stinking body.”

Donovan laughed as he headed back to the car. “Privileges of rank, kid.”

*** 

“It’s okay, Brutus,” Madeline assured the dog, reaching into the back seat to pet his large head. Perhaps she should just finish Brutus’ walk and take him home to his mommy. There was no reason to sit around here. The cops could talk to her at her house. Still, she hesitated against leaving because she didn’t want to get into trouble with the police.

Finally, Donovan Andrews’ head popped up over the small hill leading from the beach. He unlocked the door and climbed into the driver’s seat.

He looked calmer than when he first saw the body. Sadness didn’t seem to be the emotion he dealt with. If Madeline had to guess, she would suppose it was either fear or guilt, judging by the look that crossed his face.

“Well, now,” he said, locking his blue eyes onto Madeline, “I just have a few questions about what you saw, Miss Scott.”

“Can that wait, Officer? I have—”

“Call me Donovan.”

“—Oh, okay.” Madeline took a deep breath, which flooded her senses with Donovan’s subtle cologne mixed with the scent of the ocean. “Donovan, I need to get Brutus home to his owner. You see, I’m a dog walker, and she’ll worry about him if we’re too late. I can’t afford to lose her as a client. She insists I walk Brutus without any other dogs, and she pays very well.”

“Ah...I’ve seen Brutus around. Thought he looked familiar. Mrs. Stanfield bought him after her husband died two years ago. Odd choice for an older woman, but he seems like a good dog. Still, must be hard for her to control him on walks.”

Maybe finding a dead body made her grouchy, but small talk didn’t interest her. The last thing she wanted was his commentary on whether her client picked the appropriate breed of dog. “I suppose that’s why she pays me the big bucks. I need to get back to work.”

He tipped his head sideways. “I can’t believe you’re a dog walker.”

Madeline immediately bristled, her hands forming fists against her thighs. “It pays the rent. I’m actually a grade-school teacher, but those jobs aren’t plentiful around here. Dog walking mixed with substitute teaching pays the bills.” She glared at him, daring him to make an inappropriate remark about her profession. “I also work at Woofy Cuts as a groomer. Do you have a problem with that?”

“Whoa, whoa, whoa. Take it easy, Madeline. I only asked for clarity.” He reached across the space between them and patted her balled fist. “I wasn’t trying to offend. It’s good work and gets you out exercising every day. Personally, I love running in the—”

“I need to finish his walk and get Brutus home, sir,” Madeline interrupted, slipping her hand out of his and folding her arms together. “Do you think we could talk about things later?”

Donovan shrugged. “How ‘bout I walk with you? Then we can accomplish everything at once.”

Madeline knew she wasn’t in a position to argue. Besides, she tried not to notice, but Donovan attracted her in a way she hadn’t felt in a while. She avoided interesting men at all costs since her failed wedding. As intriguing as he seemed, his touchy-feely nature and apparent confidence warned her to be careful. Donovan Andrews was very likely a player.

He looked to be nearing forty—a very sexy, distinguished forty to be sure—and didn’t wear a wedding ring. His actions so far hadn’t made a good impression on her. He was a man used to being successful with the ladies, no matter what he did.

Madeline reminded herself none of that mattered. She wasn’t interested, and Donovan had his hands busy with a murder investigation. This wasn’t a dating service. “Sure, you can walk with us.”


Chapter Two

“So that’s when I saw the man in the dark-colored suit running away,” Madeline said.

“Can you describe him?”

Madeline thought about the figure. She had just walked over the top of a rise when she saw the person on the beach, but had been too far away to see him clearly. In fact, she wasn’t even certain the runner was a man.

She shook her head. “I didn’t realize anything horrible happened until I found the...victim.” She tugged on the leash to encourage Brutus to keep walking instead of inspecting the same bush for the hundredth time. “I’m plenty busy with this beast.”

“I can imagine.”

Glancing over at Donovan, another thought occurred to her. “You know, it might not have been a jogging suit I saw, considering the person obviously wasn’t down there for a run.”

“What do you mean?”

“Well, the color the person wore was like your outfit.”

Donovan sucked in a breath, and Madeline risked another look.

He ran his hand over his face. “You think it’s a cop?”

“No, I didn’t mean... That’s not to say...” Great. She offended him. Certainly, the other cops would love hearing she half-accused one of them of being responsible for the crime. Madeline exhaled heavily. “Look, it could have been anybody wearing anything. That’s all I meant. The color was similar to your uniform and there was something shiny the sun hit when the person turned my direction for a few moments. It could have been metal, like a badge.”

Donovan stopped walking and made a notation in the notebook he carried.

Happy to take advantage of the break, Brutus trotted over to mark a signpost. Thankfully, they were only three houses away from his owner, and Madeline could drop him off and head home. She felt in desperate need of a hot bath and some chamomile tea.

She dragged Brutus away from the post and hurried to his owner’s door. Donovan stayed on the sidewalk, watching her. That at least kept her from having to answer questions about why she had a police escort, though Mrs. Stanfield might have wondered about the jacket saying ‘Police’ in big, yellow letters. Perhaps she didn’t notice.

After Brutus was safely inside the house, Madeline returned to Donovan. “I really don’t have anything else to offer, sir. Is it okay if I head home now?”

He nodded. “That’s probably for the best. Where’s your car? I’ll walk you to it.”

“That’s nice of you, but my apartment is three blocks away, over on Holly Street. I’ll be fine.”

“Holly Street? Overlooking the ocean?” At her nod, Donovan quirked an eyebrow. “Kind of a nice neighborhood for a dog walker...or a substitute teacher.”

Madeline looked at the sidewalk, refusing to answer the unspoken question. He didn’t need to know she’d pulled out her entire life savings to chase her dream of living next to the ocean. Northern California seemed like the perfect escape once she realized she wouldn’t be marrying Cameron.

She had just enough saved to finance the apartment for one year. After that, she’d have to rethink her life plan and make a decision that wasn’t so impulsive. Still, falling asleep to the sound of the ocean, watching the waves crash into the shore beneath her picture window, taking walks on the beach—spending all her money was worth that.

“I’d better walk you home,” Donovan said, and she looked back up. “There’s a killer out here somewhere. I don’t think you should walk alone.”

Her stomach twisted uncomfortably. “I’d appreciate the escort.”

*** 

“So this Scott girl probably saw the killer but can’t give an accurate description?” Chief Kenneth Stone boomed from behind his desk. “That’s not a lot of help to us unless she remembers more.”

Donovan sighed and clasped his hands behind his back. “Sir, she saw someone in a blue suit running away, but she was on the hilly part of the beach at the time and didn’t even realize there was a body or that a crime had been committed. She was too far away to be useful.”

“She’s new in town. Do you know anything about her background?”

“No.” Donovan shrugged. “Why? You think she overpowered Frank and then stuck around to report her crime?”

“Doubtful,” Stone admitted. “Then again, a coldly calculating killer might, in hopes we wouldn’t look at her for the crime. We’ve never had something like this happen here before. New residents are automatically suspicious in my mind.”

Eric laughed from his place on the tiny office’s only guest chair. “Miss Scott’s quite a willowy thing. Tall, but I doubt she could’ve taken down a tough guy like Frank Johnson.”

“Never underestimate a woman, rookie.” Chief Stone ran a hand through his silver-streaked hair and shook his head. “Check into her more to make sure, but she’s probably a dead end. Did she tell you anything useful?”

Donovan hesitated. “She did say one thing that was interesting.” And sure to land Donovan in trouble as soon as Stephanie Johnson complained.

Stone raised a bushy eyebrow. “Out with it, Andrews.”

He knew he’d have to tell them. It would look worse if he didn’t. “She thought maybe, and she’s not very sure about this, but it’s possible the jogging suit could be a police uniform or some other type of suit entirely. If that was the killer she saw, obviously he wasn’t down there for an evening jog.”

“Hmmm...” Stone leaned back in his chair and put his arms behind his head. “And you two were the only officers near the scene at the time. What does that say?”

“We were eating dinner, sir,” Eric squeaked.

Donovan launched a quelling glare at his partner, praying the dumb rookie wouldn’t say anything else. “Like I said, Chief, Madeline wasn’t too sure about anything.”

Stone sat straight up in his chair. “Madeline?”

“Miss Scott,” Donovan amended, shaking his head at his own carelessness. He already sat in a precarious position with Chief Stone, and it wouldn’t do to act interested in another woman.

Donovan dated Stone’s daughter for a few weeks before growing tired of her possessiveness and clingy nature. Stone foolishly thought Donovan would commit to her and had been pissed when Suzie tearfully informed him Donovan had other plans. Donovan couldn’t help it if he wasn’t the marrying type.

More accurately, he couldn’t help it if most women bored him to tears. He’d dated Suzie as long as he had out of respect for the Chief. She still came around the station house nearly every day, making mooneyes in Donovan’s direction. It was enough to drive him mad.

Then again, he’d cycled through the available talent in this small town. Heavy tourist traffic wouldn’t start for another few months. Madeline Scott just might provide a much-needed break in the monotony of his current dating life. She seemed smart and definitely had a sarcastic sense of humor, even when faced with a body. They could have fun together for a while.

The Chief stood and walked to the office door. “See that you keep things on professional footing with Miss Scott, Andrews. I don’t want any problems with my witness.”

Donovan nodded as Stone opened the door, and Eric hurried past them out into the main room.

“A quick question, sir.” Donovan’s heart beat fast, but at Stone’s nod he dove on. “Who’s questioning Stephanie Johnson?”

“It’s already been handled.”

“And did she mention a reason someone might have done this?”

Stone shrugged. “She’s only interested in getting her children back. She didn’t even blink when they informed her Frank was murdered. Maybe she’ll talk to us more once she’s met with Social Services.”

Well, wasn’t that funny? Here Donovan worried about Stephanie accusing him of killing her husband, but perhaps she did it herself. “Are we looking at her for this?”

“Yeah.” Stone wiped a large hand across his wrinkled face. “She seems a more likely candidate than Miss Scott. So far, she’s the only person I’ve found who has motive. Get back to work and round me up more suspects. I don’t want those kids yanked out of her house a second time if there’s a chance someone else did this.”

Donovan nodded and walked to his desk. He flopped into the chair, fear clutching his chest. So far, at least, no one knew about him punching Frank.

Eric glanced up from the papers in front of him. “You okay?”

Closing his eyes and leaning back, Donovan didn’t respond. If word got out Stephanie was a suspect and it looked like she wouldn’t get her children back, there was no way she’d keep quiet about the threats he made yesterday.

He had to find more suspects before that happened.

*** 

“I knew California was a bad idea!”

Madeline sighed, shifting her cell phone to her other ear before taking another sip of tea. The hot bath hadn’t done anything to steady her nerves, and her mom’s hysterics weren’t helping much either. “You make it sound like I moved to L.A. There’s hardly any crime in this dinky town. I promise you, I’m fine.”

“But a body? Madeline Josephine Scott, what if the killer saw you?”

“The police are keeping an eye on me until the killer is caught,” Madeline lied. “Don’t worry.”

“I’d feel better if you came back to Utah, sweetheart.”

“What for?” Madeline blinked back sudden tears. It had been five months since she caught her maid of honor in bed with her fiancé, and the pain and humiliation remained. “Coming back is not an option. Please, don’t worry about me.”

A knock sounded against her door, and Madeline stifled a relieved sigh. “Somebody’s here. I have to go. I’ll call on Sunday. Kiss, kiss.”

Madeline hung up before her mother could respond and tightened the sash of her robe to make sure her silky pajamas didn’t show. She crossed through the small living room to the front door and peered through the peephole. Officer Andrews stood in the outer hallway, shifting from side to side.

He was dressed all in black rather than his police uniform, and his short, brown hair spiked up in front. The slight graying at his temples gave him a distinguished look. His penetrating eyes stared directly into the peephole, as though he could see Madeline on the other side.

Smoothing her wet hair against her head, she pulled open the door. “Donovan? Was there something more you needed?”

Donovan’s eyes traveled up and down her body, spending an inordinate amount of time on her bare legs beneath the short silk robe. “Nice outfit.”

Though her cheeks burned, Madeline refused to lose her composure. Her robe was perfectly respectable, even if her uninvited guest wasn’t. “Can I help you?”

He nodded. “You might be the only person who can help me.”

Madeline tipped her head sideways, considering. Donovan clearly was no longer on duty, and he already acted a little too friendly earlier. What, exactly, was he asking for? “I’m sure lots of other girls would love to help you, and probably have.”

He laughed. “I know I come on a bit strong, but I’m here about the murder investigation—not that I’m sorry I got to see your gorgeous legs.”

Madeline’s mouth worked a few times, but she was unable to form words as Donovan pushed past her into the apartment.

He looked past the short hallway to the cheerily painted living room and let out a low whistle. “Yellow walls? I’m surprised. I had you pegged for a lavender girl.”

Madeline folded her arms. “What is it that you want?”

“Is anyone here with us, or can we talk in private?”

“We’re alone.” She shut the door and led him into the apartment, gesturing toward the gray suede couch. “Have a seat. Would you like some tea?”

“Is that all you have?” Donovan sat down and grimaced. “I suppose if you don’t have coffee, that’ll have to work.”

Madeline tightened her lips and spun on her heel, marching into the kitchen. What was wrong with the man? Couldn’t he just ask politely for coffee like a decent human being, instead of acting as though she offered him dog piss? She thought about the instant coffee granules sitting in her cupboard. It would only take a few seconds to make him a cup.

Grabbing a mug, she filled it to the brim with hot chamomile tea. If he couldn’t show any manners, she saw no reason to go out of her way to please him.

She stormed back into the living room and shoved the mug into his hands. Hot liquid sloshed over the side of the cup.

He jerked one hand away and shoved it into his mouth, muffling curses as he sucked off the scalding tea.

“Oopsie,” she muttered, sinking gracefully into the armchair and crossing her legs. She tugged her robe down as inconspicuously as possible, just to make sure Donovan didn’t see more than he should. “What is it you need to know, Officer Andrews?”

Donovan sipped his tea and pulled a coaster out of a stack on the coffee table. He put the mug down and leaned back. “Officer Andrews is it? Guess I overstepped my mark. I’m just so used to women...” He shrugged.

“Throwing themselves at you?” Madeline finished with raised eyebrows. “Giving you whatever you want?”

“Something like that.” Donovan settled back into the couch, his eyes tracking her every movement. “Look, Madeline, I’m sorry if I offended you, but I could really use your help. I need to know if you remember anything else about the runner.”

Madeline had searched her mind all night. She wouldn’t impede an investigation because of Donovan’s deplorable manners. “The runner held something in his hand. It might have been a small baseball bat. Do you know what kind I mean? I think it’s called a Louisville Slugger.”

Donovan shot out of his relaxed pose and leaned toward her with narrowed eyes. “Or perhaps a police baton?”

“Could’ve been.” She nodded. “I couldn’t see it well, but the shape was cylindrical.”

“How big was it?”

She held her free hand about a foot and a half from her mug of tea. “About like this from what I remember. Might have been a little bigger.”

Donovan shook his head and took another sip of tea. “Damn,” he muttered softly.

As an officer, she thought he’d be happy to hear that news. It was another clue, at least. She’d been thinking about it all night. The victim was a big man and would have been hard to strangle unless he was incapacitated. “Do you think maybe the killer hit the victim and knocked him out before choking him?”

“It’s a good theory, especially if the killer was a smaller person,” Donovan agreed. “It’s one of the reasons my Chief wants me to look at you a little harder.”

“M—m—me?” Madeline shook her head frantically. “I couldn’t. I wouldn’t!”

“Don’t worry.” He reached out and patted her bare leg. “I told Chief Stone the same thing.”

The skin he touched seemed to burn with the heat coming from it. Why did he so unsettle all her senses?

His fingers slipped away from her knee, caressing it lightly. “I’ll need an account of your activities today for the record,” he said, “but I don’t think you’re guilty.”

“I’m glad to hear you don’t truly consider me a suspect. It would have been a bit difficult to keep control of Brutus and take down a huge man at the same time.” Madeline took deep, calming breaths and sipped her tea. They couldn’t really suspect her. Obviously, the small-town police were panicking. In cop shows, they always blamed anyone new to town. That had to be the case here. She looked back at Donovan. “I’m sorry, but I really don’t know anything more.”

“Well, remembering the bat or whatever it was is helpful.” He ran his hand over his face and shook his head, looking tired. “Unfortunately, it makes me look guiltier.”

“You?”

He must have seen the shock in her eyes, because Donovan held out a hand in a placating manner. “Sorry. I shouldn’t have said that. I promise I didn’t do anything, but I have a couple very good reasons for wanting this case wrapped up in a hurry.”

“I suppose if you’re a killer, I’ve already let you in my house, so there’s not much to do about it now.” She set her tea down, pleased when the cup went smoothly onto the table and didn’t rattle. Yep, she was a cool cucumber. She had murderers in for tea every night. No problem here.

“Look, Maddie, I promise I’ve done nothing wrong. Well, not much wrong.”

“My name is Madeline,” she corrected softly, wondering if she could make it to her bedroom, lock the door, and call 911 before he caught her.

“Sorry. You look like a Maddie.”

Donovan stared into her eyes for several breathless moments, just long enough for Madeline to wonder if he was about to hurt her.

He finally shrugged and looked away. “The problem I have is Frank Johnson liked to beat his wife. I can’t tell you how many times I went to that house.” He stood and began pacing the living room like a restless beast. “Yesterday, he hit his little girl.”

She sucked in a shocked breath. How could any man do that to his own family? Especially his child?

Donovan pivoted on his toe and stalked back toward her, breathing hard and clenching his fists. “Horrible piece of shit that he was, I wish someone hadn’t picked today to kill him. I could be in trouble.”

He really did sound like a man desperate to clear his name, not a killer.

“Why might you be in trouble?” she asked.

“Because I was stupid.” His eyes met hers again. “I lost it yesterday, roughed him up, made some threats. I shouldn’t have, but I was so angry.”

“And now he’s dead.”

“Lucky for the world, unlucky for me.”

Anger emanated off Donovan like a palpable force. Madeline watched him as he prowled. He had the graceful body of a runner. Although he would definitely be strong enough to strangle someone, Madeline wondered if she’d jumped to conclusions too quickly.

If he really had killed that man, he’d gain nothing by talking to her about it. Also, he’d genuinely seemed surprised when he looked at the body.

Madeline settled back in her chair, deciding it wouldn’t be necessary to call 911. “Judging by how inappropriate this entire conversation is, I can see you aren’t great at following police procedure. However, anyone would have wanted to beat up a guy like that.”

“That’s the thing. Tons of people hate him. His wife probably killed him so she could get her kids back, but I think she’ll point the finger of blame at me.”

Madeline shook her head. “I’m pretty sure you shouldn’t be telling me all this, especially not if I’m a suspect.”

He laughed. “Probably not, but we suspects have to stick together.”

It would serve her best not to respond to that. “You said you had several reasons for needing to round up suspects. What else is going on?”

Donovan made another trip around the room and stopped in front of Madeline. He planted a hand on either arm of the chair and leaned into her. A tingling of excitement passed through her as Donovan’s warm cheek pressed against hers and his hot breath blew in her ear.

“Chief said I can’t date you while I’m involved in this investigation.” He pulled slowly away from her, the slight stubble on his cheek revving up her senses as it brushed against her. “I want to finish this case quickly...very quickly.”

Madeline tried to calm her erratic pulse as she watched Donovan cross the room and open the front door.

He turned to look at her. “Lock this behind me, Maddie.”



Chapter Three

Madeline struggled to open the door of Woofy Cuts against the harsh wind whipping through town. Wasn’t California supposed to be the land of sunshine, bikini-clad babes, and over-muscled idiots? Perhaps only the southern part of the state boasted those attractions.

She stepped into the interior of the shop, trying to smooth her tangled hair. Walking seven small dogs this morning, while dealing with the weather, was a test in patience. However, all the yappy dogs were safe in their homes, and Madeline only arrived ten minutes late to work.

“There you are, Madeline. I was just about to call you.”

Madeline glanced across the pink and blue room at her employer. Oversized bones decorated the walls and shelves of supplies for sale covered the left-hand side of the store. Her boss stood near the styling stations in the center, checking the grooming supplies.

Lindsey Butters was everything Madeline wished she could be: blonde, blue-eyed, and petite. Madeline guessed Lindsey to be in her forties, but no one would ever know that from looking at her. The woman had the looks of a short supermodel in her mid twenties, though Madeline suspected Botox had a hand in Lindsey’s wrinkle-free face.

“Sorry about that,” Madeline said, walking past the customer seating area. “I had the Pomeranians this morning. You know how much trouble they cause with the other dogs. It’s amazing I’m here now.”

“Oh, I’m not angry you’re late.” Lindsey shook her head, bobbing perfect curls against her shoulders. “But after you found that body last night, I have more reasons to worry about you walking alone out there.”

The memory of Frank Johnson’s lifeless eyes filled her vision for a moment. Madeline’s hand trembled slightly as she opened the door to the coat closet and hung her jacket. “How’d you hear about that?”

“It was in this morning’s paper. Brandon Feldman must have worked all night to prepare the story so fast.”

Madeline sighed and checked the white board to see how busy their schedule was today. She should’ve known the resident gossip, otherwise known as owner of the newspaper, would blab her life to the entire town.

It wasn’t that she didn’t like Brandon, not exactly. The man had tried many times to convince Madeline to go out with him since she arrived in town. She turned him down each time, though she wasn’t sure what made her cautious of him. He seemed nice enough. One thing was certain; he was nothing like Donovan.

Madeline pushed that thought away. She promised herself she wouldn’t think about Donovan anymore. She knew his type. Chances were high he found himself a nice little hottie to flirt with already today and forgot all about looking at Madeline’s legs last night.

“Looks like we’re losing our overnight guests,” Madeline said, gesturing to the white board and struggling to get her mind on the right track. Two dogs had stayed at Woofy Cuts’ doggie hotel all week, but they were on the grooming schedule this morning.

“Yeah, their family will be in to pick them up before noon. We’d better get to work.”

Lindsey stepped through the swinging doors to the back end of the building and Madeline followed. An underlying hint of wet dog infused Madeline’s senses, even though Lindsey insisted they cleaned the back room religiously. It was impossible to banish that scent.

“We’ll have a new boarder this afternoon,” Lindsey told her as they stepped into the kennel area. “Mrs. Stanfield is going to visit her sister. Your friend, big Brutus, will be an overnight guest.”

Madeline smiled. “I do love that dog.”

“Well, I’m glad to hear that because I need a favor.”

A tendril of dread filled the pit of her stomach. Lindsey’s voice was far too bland and innocent. “What do you need?”

“You don’t walk any dogs on Friday mornings, right?” she asked with raised eyebrows.

Madeline groaned. “Oh, no! Can’t Maria come in to work? You know I need that day.” It was the only day of the week Madeline had completely free. She worked at the school or Woofy Cuts all the other days, in addition to walking dogs every morning and most evenings.

“Pretty please, Madeline. Just come in and walk Brutus around seven o’clock and open the store. Marie said she’d come in and take over at nine.” She bit her lip, looking hopeful. “I have a dentist appointment in Eureka at eight. If I cancel, it’ll be two months before I can get in.”

Madeline sighed, but nodded. Lindsey gave her a job when no one else in this town had anything to offer. She also suggested Madeline offer her services as a dog walker and helped smooth the way so Madeline could obtain clients. Besides, it wasn’t as though she’d be stuck the whole day. She could handle a few hours, and taking care of Brutus was always a fun challenge.

“You’re a doll,” Lindsey said, flashing her perfect smile. “Just be really careful tomorrow morning when you come in."

Madeline opened the store herself on Monday mornings each week. She found it a bit offensive that Lindsey still didn’t completely trust her. “I know how to open the store by now. It’ll be fine.”

“That’s not what I meant.” Lindsey patted her shoulder. “Brandon said in the paper this morning that Frank had only been dead minutes when the police arrived.”

Madeline thought once again of Frank’s vacant eyes. Donovan said the guy was a creep, but did anyone deserve to be murdered? “That’s true. I don’t understand why you’re worried.”

Lindsey shook her head and sighed. “Sweetie, whoever killed Frank knows who you are now. If he thinks you can identify him, he might come after you next.”

*** 

Donovan parked the police cruiser, and he and Eric hopped out. It had been a wasted day. They spent most of their time reassuring frightened citizens they would catch the killer and Pleasant View’s streets would be safe once again.

Donovan followed Eric into the station. Tourist season quickly approached. Citizens worried that with news of a killer on the loose, people would vacation elsewhere, crippling the town’s revenue.

“Andrews, Sanders, get in here,” Chief Stone bellowed from his office.

They stepped into the cramped office and closed the door. Eric once again took the chair while Donovan stood with his arms clasped behind his back.

“Please tell me you got a lead,” Chief Stone said, leaning back in his chair and stacking his feet on the desk. “I’ve been fielding phone calls all day from terrified mothers who won’t let their children outside. I need this case solved.”

Donovan nodded. “We’ve been talking to scared moms too. That’s mostly who we were able to interview today.”

Donovan didn’t blame them for being afraid. Pleasant View was usually a safe town; a place people came to raise a family. The worst thing that ever happened was an occasional fight or a teenager pulling a dumb prank and ruining some property. Well, except for jerks like Frank Johnson who abused their wives.

He fished a notepad from his front pocket and opened it. “Here are the three names we were given today of people acting suspicious, but I don’t think this will lead anywhere.”

The names reported were people Donovan knew had an ongoing problem with the person who reported them. He needed real suspects to keep himself out of the line of fire. Personal grudges would not help him.

Stone grunted and swung his feet to the floor, taking the list from Donovan’s hand. “How many interviews did you get through?”

“Fifteen, sir,” Eric answered.

“I’m thinking we should get some extra help,” Donovan said. “I don’t know if six of us on the force are enough to handle this.”

Stone ran his hand over his head. His gray hair stuck up on end, as if he’d been pulling it all day. “Even if we call in the six back-up cops that come in during the summer, we’re not going to be able to interview everyone.” Stone looked at the list. “Start with these names tomorrow, and I’ll see what I can do about finding more help.”

Donovan took the notebook back. “Has anything useful turned up?”

“Only something Stephanie Johnson said,” Stone replied.

Donovan’s heart gave an extra squeeze. “What’s that, sir?”

“Someone called Frank right before he left the house yesterday.”

The band of tightness relaxed slightly and Donovan tried to muffle his sigh of relief. “Who was it?”

“Don’t know yet. We’re working on getting phone records.”

“Did Mrs. Johnson say anything about what happened at her house that day?” Eric asked. “I mean, after Social Services left?”

Donovan turned to Eric with narrowed eyes. He was getting into dangerous territory, and Donovan wished he’d just shut his mouth.

“The kids returned home this morning and there didn’t seem to be any problems. She hasn’t said anything more about the day they were taken away,” Stone said. “Why? You have anything you want to add, rookie?”

Donovan cleared his throat. “Things were a little tense in the house.” He couldn’t afford to have the Chief hear everything that happened.

Stone looked at Eric. “Is that what you’re referring to?”

“Yes, sir,” Eric mumbled, looking at the floor. “It was very heated. Frank said some things that didn’t sit too well with us, and Mrs. Johnson became upset.”

Donovan held his breath, wondering how Chief would react to that news. Eric had mentioned once again today how nervous he was about Stephanie saying something. Donovan had tried his best to reassure him, but obviously it hadn’t worked.

Eric shrugged. “It just seems like a lot of people didn’t like Frank.”

Stone gave Donovan a hard look, causing Donovan’s stomach to twist with discomfort. He wondered if Stone suspected what really happened after Social Services left with the children. It wouldn’t be too big of an assumption for him to make, since Frank had filed complaints in the past.

The Chief finally shook his head. “At least we’ll have a lead when we find out who called him. You guys write up your findings and go home.”

Donovan led the way out of the office. He sat back in his desk and pulled up a form on the computer, pushing half the hand-written notes across to Eric’s desk.

Madeline’s face once again filled his vision, as it had so many times throughout the day. He’d wanted to go see her, but given the past relationship he’d shared with Lindsey Butters, she wouldn’t have been happy if he showed up at Woofy Cuts. Besides, what excuse could he give? Madeline obviously told him everything she knew.

Then again, he could casually stop by her apartment this evening, find a new tea to take her. She seemed to love tea. Maybe it would get him in the door.

Damn...he couldn’t do that tonight. Donovan ground his teeth and punched a name into the form. He’d made reservations at The Carriage House for him and Christy. What had he been thinking, letting that girl talk him into the date? Christy was twenty-three and in her last semester of college. He knew they had nothing in common after the first date. When she’d begged to go out again, Donovan agreed, feeling guilty only giving her one chance.

Now having met Madeline—sophisticated, sarcastic, tall Maddie—he wished he dared cancel. Donovan shook his head. He’d have to go through with this one last date with Christy, but he would find a way to see Maddie tomorrow.

*** 

Madeline glanced at the clock as she handed change to Mrs. Duncan. She placed the dog toys and water dish into a plastic bag and handed them over the counter. Although the store had been slow as far as grooming appointments, it seemed everyone in town needed pet supplies. Madeline was glad this hectic day would soon end.

They all wanted to question her about finding Frank’s body. Madeline had a suspicion that was the real reason they swarmed to the shop today. She smiled and bid Mrs. Duncan a good day, though the woman left angry, unable to get information out of Madeline to fuel the gossip.

Thankful the store was finally empty of customers, Madeline walked into the back room to look for Lindsey.

Her boss poured food into an enormous bowl and placed it in Brutus’ cage. “Finally got rid of her, did you?” Lindsey asked. “I thought she’d never quit asking questions.”

“I don’t understand the people in this town.” Madeline shuddered. “Why would you want to know all the details about a dead body? I wish I didn’t have that memory.”

“I know, sweetie. It’s a horrible thing, but you have to remember how boring life is around here. This is the most excitement we’ve had in years.” Lindsey locked Brutus’ kennel and led the way to the front of the store. “Face it—you’re an overnight celebrity.”

Madeline sat on one of the styling stations and closed her eyes. “Do you think that will keep me safe if the killer thinks I know anything? Maybe I should let the townsfolk mob me. Safety in numbers and all that.”

“Well...I know one man who wants to keep you safe, and he’s headed to the door right now.”

Donovan? He’s here? I must look horrible after practically bathing with the dog this morning!

Madeline opened her eyes, running her fingers over her hair in an attempt to put it in some semblance of order. She squinted into the sunlight shining through the door and tried to make out the person on the other side.

The chime sounded as he walked inside. Madeline’s eyes adjusted to the brightness and her heart sank a little.

“Good afternoon, ladies,” Brandon Feldman said, crossing the room to place a kiss on Lindsey’s cheek. “Everything go okay today?”

Madeline bit her lip and looked into Brandon’s tanned face. She knew Lindsey was right, Brandon did seem to want to keep Madeline safe—or at least away from other men—but a secret corner of her wished Donovan had come to check on her. After last night, she really thought he’d at least casually show up, if to do nothing more than remind her he wanted a date once the case was closed.

“It’s been busy,” Lindsey told Brandon. “People want to know more about Frank, and everyone wants a piece of our Madeline.”

“I hope you’ve told them they can’t have you,” Brandon said with a wink as he leaned down to kiss Madeline’s cheek. “I have every intention of convincing you to be mine.”

Madeline tried to keep a straight face. Not a very subtle pickup line. Still, Brandon was here, trying to use it on her. Her earlier assessment about Donovan had to be right. He forgot about her the second he left the apartment and now used his charm to seduce some other unsuspecting woman.

She looked into Brandon’s startling green eyes. Even though she wasn’t attracted to him, he was a handsome man with his light-brown hair, deep tan, and large muscles. Brandon fit the stereotypical, over-muscled idiot she had been thinking of earlier. One of the beautiful people, she thought, grinning.

She stood from the styling table, which put her eyes level with his. “You’re sweet, Brandon, but I told you I’m not interested in dating right now.”

Brandon took a step back. “Really? The town’s buzzing about Donovan Andrews leaving your apartment late last night. They say he wasn’t in uniform and it seemed like a social call.” He shrugged. “I’d hoped that meant your ban on dating was over.”

People gossiped about her? Who did they think they were, judging what she might be doing in her own home?

“Oh, no, sweetie.” Lindsey shook her head. “You aren’t dating Donovan, are you? Please tell me they’re wrong.”

“It’s nobody’s business who I choose to date.” Madeline tried to keep her tone civil, but gossip irritated her. She dealt with enough of that at home once she called off the wedding.

Lindsey's mouth tightened and she put her hand on her hip. “I thought we were friends, and you talk to me like that? Donovan’s trouble, but don’t worry, I’ll stay out of your private business.” She whirled around and marched to the back of the store.

“Lindsey, wait,” Madeline called, taking a step to follow her as Lindsey disappeared through the swinging doors.

Brandon grabbed her hand, stopping her. “Let her go. She needs time to cool off.”

“But why did she get so mad? I didn’t mean to upset her.”

Brandon captured her other hand and stared deep into her eyes. “It’s not your fault. I’m sure no one told you. Donovan Andrews isn’t a nice guy. He’s dated most of the women in this town and broken their hearts.” He looked toward the back room. “Lindsey thought she was different. She thought Donovan would finally settle down with her. They were engaged two weeks before he called it off.”

Madeline swallowed hard, trying to bite back her disappointment. She thought she’d felt a real attraction to Donovan. Even though initially he struck her as a womanizer, by the time he left her apartment last night she’d hoped for something a bit different. Obviously he was good at tricking women into believing he was what they wanted. At least until he moved on to the next one.

“I didn’t know,” she whispered.

“I hope you didn’t think anything different was going to happen with him. He’ll break your heart.”

“No. It wasn’t anything like that.” Madeline shook her head. “I wasn’t dating him. He came by to talk about the case.”

Brandon grinned. “So, then, you don’t have plans with him tonight?”

“Of course not!”

“Good.” He released her hands and stepped back. “I made us dinner reservations for The Carriage House at eight. Can I pick you up at seven-thirty?”

Madeline raised her eyebrows, shocked. “The Carriage House?”

It was the most expensive restaurant in town, and she’d heard they charged a fee if anyone canceled a reservation without a twenty-four hour notice. Brandon had really gone out on a limb, since she already turned him down eight times over the last two months.

Still, Cameron was her past, and she couldn’t mourn the loss of that life forever. At some point, she had to start dating again.

Being completely honest with herself, she knew she would love spending more time with Donovan, even if he was a player. Something about him intrigued her. However, Lindsey and Brandon reinforced the fact that Donovan wasn’t boyfriend material. She needed to stop wasting time thinking about him.

Brandon reached out and grabbed her hand again. “The Carriage House is really nice. They have great food, and I promise we’ll have fun. What do you say?”

She nodded. “Sounds great.”

~~~~~~

I hope you enjoyed that! If you want to continue with Madeline and Donovan's adventure (and see what happens when they meet up at the restaurant) be sure to check your favorite book vendor this weekend or visit me here on Monday, where I will share the links and also feature all the blogs who have graciously agreed to help me spread the word about my release! 

Thanks for stopping by and for reading. Have a great rest of your week!

~~ Chantel~~