Bunny's Reviews: 2021

Thursday, December 23, 2021

Moon Scorned Review

I'm so pleased to be part of the book tour for Moon Scorned by Marty Mayberry! Read on for my review, more info, and a chance to enter a giveaway where you could win the prequel novella in the in the series called Moon Hunted!

Moon Scorned (Raven Moon Wolves #1)

Expected Publication Date: January 5th, 2022

Genre: Upper YA/ Shifter/ Paranormal Romance

I fell hard and fast for the alpha of an elite pack.

Then he rejected me.

Everly

Asher took off when I needed him most, rejecting me and my inner wolf. Then my half-sister is murdered at an exclusive college that’s enshrouded in magic and secrets. When the school offers me a scholarship, I accept and move onto campus. I’m going to find out who killed her, then rip them apart. And if I run into Asher while I’m there? He’ll learn I’m no longer his sweet little thing. He’s about to taste the fury of a wolf shifter scorned.

Asher

Everly’s everything to me, but to protect her, I had to shove her away. If I go near her, the Drudge Pack will discover who she truly is. My father—their enforcer—will kill her. But when she shows up at Ravenmire College, my inner wolf hungers. I’ll do anything to keep her safe—even if that means sacrificing myself and betraying my dangerous family.

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Moon Scorned is the first book in Marty Mayberry's Raven Moon Wolves series. The author introduces readers to a young woman by the name of Everly. Everly doesn't have much, but she has Asher, her sister, and her wolf. But things go left out of nowhere when Asher suddenly becomes distant from her and then breaks off their relationship. Everly is devastated, but the hits don't stop there. She gets notified that her sister has died. They claim "natural causes" but Everly doesn't believe that. Despite her heartbreak, when she gets an invitation to the college her sister died at, Everly takes the opportunity to find out what happened to her, and tries to ignore her broken heart as she once again crosses paths with Asher.

Moon Scorned is an engaging paranormal romance novel that really draws you in with the level of darkness and mystery that the author weaves from the very beginning of this book. Everly has magic, but she's told to hide it. No one but her sister knows about it, but now her sister is gone. What happened to her? The very first question that hits you, right? Well, the questions will keep coming as Everly learns strange things about the college campus. There is so much going on in the shadows, but it's not just the shadows that you have to watch out for. Asher's father is intent on finding something and that is something Everly holds without knowing it.

While Everly and Asher are the main focus of this story, the point of view shifting between the two of them, there are other intriguing characters as well. There is Olivia, one of the females Asher's father has picked for him to choose from. She's one to watch out for as she doesn't take rejection well. I get the feeling that she knows more than she lets on, and that makes her all the more dangerous. Then there is Kia. The questions really rain down for me concerning her. What happened to her? What is she really? Should Everly be wary of her? When I think I might have a bead on her as a character I'm thrown for a loop. Then there are the two fae characters who really intrigue me. They pop up here and there, but I never really can figure them out or what their agendas are.

There is a lot of back and forth between Everly and Asher. They are fated mates, but we see the pain that not just them, but their wolves feel. The romance sparks and then gets smothered as Asher tries his best to protect Everly, but you can just tell how hard it is for him. I kept waiting on something to try to happen between Everly and one of the fae...just to see how it would affect him, but it never really happens. I feel that Everly is harsher on Asher than she should really be though. I'd have preferred it if she had actually taken the time in some key places to ask questions concerning his behavior.

I truly enjoyed this book and I'm eager for more. I have to find out what happens next because the mystery is killing me! Be prepared for a cliffhanger at the end of this book as things are really about to go down a path none of them are prepared for. I absolutely devoured this book and I will be impatiently waiting for the next book. If you love paranormal romance novels with a heavy dose of mystery then you're going to want to check this book out.

I'm rating Moon Scorned 5 out of 5 stars. Engaging from beginning to end, you're not going to want to miss this book.

Keep reading to check out an excerpt from the novel coming in January and for a chance at a giveaway!

Excerpt

Asher was waiting for me outside work, standing in the darkness below a burst of evergreens. When he saw me, he strode forward and cupped my face with his warm hands.

Likes him, my wolf sighed within me.

“Missed you,” he whispered.

“You, too.” My heart rate picked up to double time.

His lips captured mine, softly at first, then harder and with growing need.

I wasn’t sure where this was going between us, but I did know one thing. Cats might rule and wolves might drool, but Asher was my catnip. Whenever he touched me, I purred.

Pulling away, he took my hand and guided me across the sidewalk and out onto the beach.

During the day, crowds of humans mobbed Old Orchard Beach. Once the sun had set and the tourists headed to their rented condos and hotels, the locals could breathe a sigh of relief and enjoy the quiet. And late at night, especially when the moon bathed the sky with her milky gaze, wolves like me and Ash could run.

I kicked off my shoes and shimmied out of my jeans and long-sleeve shirt—I wisely wore thin shorts and a tank underneath.

Asher watched, his smoldering eyes tracing my every curve as I moved. We’d come close to going all the way but hadn’t done it yet. I wasn’t sure why I resisted. He made it clear he wanted to. The heat simmering in my veins told me I did too. I guess I wanted to wait. We’d only known each other for a few months.

He had to leave for college soon, but he said he’d come back for each of his breaks. We had plenty of time to do things then.

We strode down to where the water licked at the shore and stood, staring out at the shimmering sea.

“You ever gone skinny dipping?” The grin Ash shot me was full of mischief.

“Umm…”

He lifted his shirt and ripped it over his head, tossing it aside. Moonlight teased across his muscular shoulders and defined abs. He told me he played soccer in college. Worked out now and then in the gym at his dad’s estate.

This was pure Asher. His amazing body was the alpha wolf in him shining through.

He reached for the button at the top of his jeans.

My breath jerked out of me. “I haven’t skinny dipped yet.” I nibbled on my lower lip.

With his jeans gaping open, he took my hands and squeezed them. His voice softened, something he did only with me. “Come on. It’ll be fun.”

“The water’s cold. It barely gets above sixty this time of year.”

“It’s not that bad. I promise I won’t touch…too much.” He shucked his jeans. “I’ll even leave my boxers on.”

“It’s not quite skinny dipping if we’re not naked.” My swallow got caught in my throat. I couldn’t drag my attention away from the corded muscles standing out in his thighs. The bulge in his shorts.

“Ev?” he said, his voice calling to everything inside me like a siren from deep beneath the sea. He lifted my chin, and our eyes met. His freakin’ smoldered.

“Okay, I will,” I said.

His fingers caressed my bare arms, and my skin tingled.

He splashed into the sea and turned when he was in waist-deep water. A wave crashed against his back, trying to thrust him back to me, but he maintained his position, watching.

I wanted to tease him, to shimmy my hips and dance while I did it, but I wanted to be close to him even more. I tugged off my shorts and tank. They fell from my limp fingers to the sand with a soft rustle.

Asher groaned. “You’re gorgeous.” His fingers swirled through the water at his sides.

Holding his gaze, I ran down into the water, dressed only in my underwear.

Asher reached for my hand and tugged me right up against him. He ran his palms up and down my arms. As if that would warm me up?

Actually, his touch did. It warmed me up too much. Maybe tonight, we’d…

Likes, my wolf said. More kisses.

I jumped up and he caught me. He’d always catch me. My legs went around his waist, my arms, his shoulders.

His lips sought mine, searing through me. His tongue stroked the seam of my lips, and I opened my mouth, letting him inside. I didn’t need to build a rocket ship to take us to the moon or the stars. Asher’s kiss took me there already.

“You…” he said when he lifted his head. “Have I told you yet how much you mean to me?”

“You can always tell me again.”

“Ev.” His fingers teased my spine, and I quivered, wishing now I’d taken off all my clothes. He kissed the nape of my neck. I melted, my knees pure mush.

Frigid water might bathe my skin, but Asher was the fire keeping me warm

Purchase on Amazon

About the Author

Marty lives in New England, where you’ll find her plotting and writing while walking in the park–yes, at the same time! Otherwise, you might find her sitting in the shade with her feet up, reading everything she can get her hands on.

Marty Mayberry | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok

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December 20^th

R&R Book Tours (Kick-Off) http://rrbooktours.com

Reads & Reels (Spotlight) http://readsandreels.com

I Smell Sheep (Review) http://www.ismellsheep.com/

Didi Oviatt (Spotlight) https://didioviatt.wordpress.com

December 21^st

@my_books_and_coffee (Review) https://www.instagram.com/my_books_and_coffee/

@atrailofpages (Review) https://www.instagram.com/atrailofpages/

@ofmoviesandbooks (Review) https://www.instagram.com/ofmoviesandbooks/

Balancing Books and Beauty (Review) https://balancingbooksandbeauties.wordpress.com/blog/

@balancing_books_and_beauties - https://www.instagram.com/balancing_books_and_beauties/

Stine Writing (Spotlight) https://christinebialczak.com/

December 22^nd

@disneyallthe_way (Review) https://www.instagram.com/disneyallthe_way/

Eyerolling Demigod’s Book Blog (Review) https://www.eyerollingdemigod.com/

@dreaminginpages (Review) https://www.instagram.com/dreaminginpages/

B is for Book Review (Spotlight) https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com

December 23^rd

@books_inthecity (Review) https://www.instagram.com/books_inthecity/

@eamons (Review) https://www.instagram.com/eamons/

Books + Coffee = Happiness (Review) https://bookscoffeehappiness.com/

The Livi Chronicles (Review) https://livibrooksbooks.wixsite.com/website

Sadie’s Spotlights (Spotlight) http://sadiesspotlight.com/

See Sadie Read (Review) http://sadieforsythe.com/wp/

Bunny’s Book Reviews (Review) https://bookwormbunnyreviews.blogspot.com/

December 24^th

Bri’s Book Nook (Review) https://brisbooknook.com/

@bookishkelly2020 (Spotlight) https://www.instagram.com/BookishKelly2020/

Liliyana Shadowlyn (Spotlight) https://lshadowlynauthor.com/

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Tuesday, December 21, 2021

The Demon, the Hero and the City of Seven

"Sometimes a little bad can do a lot of good."

Welcome to the book tour for a hilarious fantasy debut called The Demon, The Hero, and the City of Seven by A.E. Kincaid! Read on for my review and a chance to win a $25 Amazon e-gift card!

The Demon, The Hero, and The City of Seven (A Mal & Reg Novel of Widdershins Book 1)

Publication Date: December 14th, 2021

Genre: Fantasy/ Humorous Fantasy

Sometimes a little bad can do a lot of good.

What happens when good and evil collide?

They yell, “Ouch!”

When you’re a demon who’s been magically connected to a human for eternity, life is bound to be annoying. But when that human is also an inept hero who tosses his lunch whenever he gets stressed out? Breaking the connection becomes priority one.

Plus, there’s a mystery at the heart of their bond that needs unraveling. When the magical object that bound them broke, it weakened the barrier between Widdershins and the Underworld. The duo hopes to find a wizard in the City of Seven who will be able to help with both problems.

Follow along as our demon, Lord Malgon and our hero, Sir Reginald make themselves unwelcome with fairies, humans, dwarves and giants—all while racing to get to the City of Seven before Mal’s supremely evil brother.

In this debut humorous fantasy adventure novel, Kincaid pairs an endearing cast of characters with expert world-building and laugh-out-loud dialogue. The Demon, The Hero, and The City of Seven will leave a Mal and Reg shaped stamp on your heart.

The Demon, The Hero, and the City of Seven is the first book in A.E. Kincaid’s new humorous fantasy adventure series and I can’t wait for more!

The Demon, The Hero, and City of Seven is HI-larious!! When I read the blurb for this book, I knew that I had to read it. The author really brings this story to life with Lord Malgon, the demon, and Sir Reginald, the hero. These two goof-heads manage to bungle their quest, to return a stone to the dryads, and end up attached with magic. What could wrong with that, right? Well, when the dryads say “don’t come back until the stone is fixed”….you can expect lots of problems. Especially when you can’t get too far away from the other person without being magically dragged back together. Forcefully. Lots of ouches to be found there! LOL!

While Sir Reginald is a hapless hero, Lord Malgon honestly isn’t much better. I mean...honestly, how bad can he be as the “Giver of Papercuts and Collapser of Souffles”? LOL! Okay, okay, paper cuts are diabolical things, and if you’re a baker a collapsed souffle can be an absolute nightmare, but it’s pretty obvious that Mal has a lot of work to do if he truly wants to be a diabolical demon. This book is mainly told from Mal’s perspective and I absolutely love it. He has the absolute best commentary, and I love the “spoiler” alerts sprinkled throughout this story. While they give you a minor spoiler, the spontaneity of them makes them all the more hilarious.

These characters really get themselves into some serious trouble, but they aren’t the only ones who will have you in stitches. Reg’s Gran at the bar had me almost snort off half my nose when it’s revealed that she’s the one dancing on the tabletops. I figured it was her, but honestly, Reg’s response to seeing her was totally worth the reveal. Let’s just say I want to be just as spritely as her when I’m her age. LOL!

There is honestly never a dull moment with these characters. They manage to get themselves into trouble everywhere they go. While they may manage to do a good deed here and there or start off with good intentions (remember, the road to hell is paved with good intentions so...keep up the good work Mal!) things ALWAYS go awry in some form or another. While things typically go off the rails...it’s hilarious so...worth it.

I love the little clues that the author drops here and there to let readers know that there is more to come with these characters and this storyline. The biggest clue is the giant in the mountains. So that really makes me eager for the next book. I need to know what happens next!! I mean, what would happen if one of the other stones was to be broken as well? Of course, it’s not just mishaps and miscalculations along the way for Mal and Reg. Apparently, Mal’s brother has managed to cross over through an unstable place thanks to the broken stone, and he wants to know how to make it permanent. He gives Mal a clue that this broken stone could be what gets Mal what he’s always wanted, but is he willing to take that path?

This book is packed with so much fun. As I said, I was already laughing when I read the blurb. After I’d read my daughter a bedtime story, I’d stop to read a few pages and I’d be choking on laughs so I wouldn’t wake her. I absolutely loved this book, and practically devoured it. It’s probably safe to say that there is a little space in my heart for Reg and Mal. They are such a dynamic duo in their own unique far from the perfect way. But I wouldn’t change a thing about them.

If you love a good book chock full of humor and adventure then this book is perfect for you. This book is more for the older crowd – 18+ because of some of the language used (mostly by Mal, apparently Reg is broken when it comes to swearing LOL!). But beware that dwarf who complains about people telling him to put pants on (I nearly choked with laughter).

For an author’s debut novel, this book is absolutely perfect. If you’re curious about this book, just go grab it. I promise you, you will not be disappointed. This author knew what she was doing when she put this book together, and I can’t wait to find out what happens next in Reg and Mal’s mis-adventures. I’m rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. This book checks all the boxes if you love humor, adventure, and fantasy all mixed together to create an amazing story. A.E. Kincaid is one author I’ll absolutely be keeping an eye on.

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Excerpt

In my 550 years of existence, I’m not sure I’ve ever met anyone who exasperates me more than Sir Reginald P. Asstradle, the ersatz Hero of Widdershins. When he speaks, I imagine drop-kicking him off a cliff. When he snores, I fantasize tossing him into a fiery volcano.
Don’t get me wrong—he’s a good lad. For a human, anyway. But when you are magically entangled with another being in such a way that putting just a few yards’ distance between the two of you triggers the spell to physically smash you back together? That can wear on anyone’s nerves. Like my nerves, for example. Right now.

Available on Amazon

About the Author

By day I am the Creative Director at a branding studio in Iowa. By night I write humorous fantasy novels. In between I drink coffee to keep up with a small human, and try to convince my cat she’s not as great at dictation as she thinks she is. The Demon, The Hero, and the City of Seven is my first published novel.

A.E. Kincaid | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | TikTok

Enter for a chance to win a $25 Amazon e-gift card!

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Book Tour Schedule

December 20^th

R&R Book Tours (Kick-Off) http://rrbooktours.com

Reads & Reels (Spotlight) http://readsandreels.com

Balancing Books & Beauty (Review) https://balancingbooksandbeauties.wordpress.com/

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December 21^st

The Write Start (Interview) https://www.thewritestart.net/

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December 22^nd

@hoardingbooks.herdingcats (Review) https://www.instagram.com/hoardingbooks.herdingcats/

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@biblio.jojo (Review) https://www.instagram.com/biblio.jojo/

@louturnspages (Review) https://www.instagram.com/louturnspages/

@bookloverleah (Review) https://www.instagram.com/bookloverleah/

The Livi Chronicles (Review) https://livibrooksbooks.wixsite.com/website

December 23^rd

Sadie’s Spotlights (Interview) http://sadiesspotlight.com/

@ofmoviesandbooks (Review) https://www.instagram.com/ofmoviesandbooks/

@2manybooks2littletime (Review) https://www.instagram.com/2manybooks2littletime/

I Smell Sheep (Review) http://www.ismellsheep.com/

Liliyana Shadowlyn (Review) https://lshadowlynauthor.com/

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December 24^th

@librarybookmum_budgettale (Review) https://www.instagram.com/librarybookmum_budgettales/

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Rambling Mads (Spotlight) http://ramblingmads.com

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Monday, December 20, 2021

Scattered Legacy Review

Welcome to the book tour for Scattered Legacy by Marlene M. Bell! Read on for details and the fantastic giveaway at the end!

Scattered Legacy: Murder in Southern Italy (Annalisse Series) Each Book is a Standalone Mystery

Publication Date: November 4th, 2021

Genre: Mystery/ Suspense

Scattered Legacy is the third book in Marlene M. Bell’s Annalisse series. The author expertly weaves together romance, danger, mystery, and historical tidbits that create a story that turns this book into a real page-turner.

Scattered Legacy takes readers on a journey with Annalisse and her boyfriend, Alec Zavos. Things start off in New York with a series of strange incidents that point toward danger heading their way. First, a young woman attempts to steal a red diamond, but a strange envelope with a feather also arrives and it raises some unnerving questions for Annalisse. Things only get darker when an article in a tabloid draws into question Alec’s father’s business practices. The trip that they were planning to Italy is about to be shrouded in nothing but drama, when a woman is found murdered and buried history, comes to light.

Scattered Legacy is the third book in this series and the first that I have read by Marlene M. Bell. On one hand, I’d say that this book can be read as a standalone novel. The author does touchback on incidents that have happened previously, but I don’t feel that they weigh heavy enough that it’s absolutely necessary to have read the previous books first. On the other hand, I think that it would be a good idea to have some foundation to build upon with this series by having read the previous books. LOL! So, really it’s up to you, the reader, as to whether you choose to embark on this particular book as a standalone, or begin the series and move forward.

I like how true to life the characters in this book are overall. I truly felt that I could travel to the places named in this book and cross paths with these characters. They each are dynamically different and I appreciate how the author takes the time to highlight when a character is...acting out of character. A prime example is when Alec comes to the gallery, but he doesn’t greet Annalisse like he normally does.

I do have to say that Annalisse tends to be the cause of some problems while they are in Italy. But this also routes back to where I said that the “characters are true to life OVERALL.” When Annalisse falls for a particular ruse that is used to entrap tourists, I was disappointed that 1) she fell for the trick and 2) that Alec doesn’t really “scold” her for her actions. Due to her actions, I had mixed feelings when it comes to Annalisse throughout the book. She talks too much at times which causes them problems that could have been avoided if she basically thought before she spoke. But I have to commend her bravery when she finds herself in some really sticky situations that could have gone very badly.

I love the depth of the mystery in this book. It truly captured my attention as Annalisse goes looking for answers for Gen, and by default Alec as well. The depth of the mystery as well, and how far it goes back really turns this book into a page-turner. The author takes readers to Italy and then back to the States again as she shows that the danger isn’t just in one place. The Mafia ties really amp up the danger, seen and unseen for the characters, but be prepared for a major twist as well. I kept trying to figure out the various connections throughout the story. The mystery aspect of this novel is multi-tiered. You have the mystery of the murder, but then you also have the mystery of the rosary that Annalisse is given by Gen. But the twist near the end really ended up throwing me for a loop.

This book is truly engaging from beginning to end, but watch out for the ending! My jaw was on the floor. I really need to know not just what happens next but...what is going on!! LOL! While I’m waiting for the next book, I’ll probably go and check out the two previous novels in this series. I’m choosing to rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. There is something for everyone in this book beginning with a tabloid scandal shifting to a murder connected to a cat. When you involve the Mafia just know all bets are off. If you have read the previous books in this series I’m sure you’re going to enjoy this book. If you are looking for a good thriller/mystery that takes you across the world, then I’m sure you’ll not regret checking out this book.

Scattered Legacy is the third in Marlene M. Bell’s thrilling Annalisse series, which weaves romance, crime, and historical mystery into addictive tales to instantly captivate fans of TV show Bones or Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code.

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Excerpt

The reception area is completely empty, and there’s a smell like metal in damp dirt circulating overhead. Farther in, the ceiling fan is hovering on high speed, and the windows are open.

A dead body inside a warm office leaves an unmistakable odor behind, as did the body Ethan found inside the stall at Walker Farm. Decomp is one smell that sticks with you forever. Adding to the office creepiness, who chose the interior’s decor? We’re surrounded by limestone walls painted an ugly shade of ochre, slightly more yellow and definitely more unappealing than the building’s exterior. The rooms will need another coat of fresh paint to cover a harsh stench known to stick to the walls like cigarette tar does.

No one is nearby, not even the receptionist.

The office cubicles are silent but for a few flapping papers. Not a single desk phone is ringing. It’s like the office decided to have a fire drill midday, and the employees left their computers on and didn’t bother to close folders—open to anyone passing by. Frames holding pictures of sweethearts and children stand by as guardians for the people who are absent from their high-back swivel chairs.

Officer Raffa returns and mutters in heavy Italian brogue, “Il signore is waiting for his… avvocato difensore.” He points to the room with a closed door. “Come, Mr. Zavos. Your friends stay here.”

“Josh is in there waiting for his defense attorney. Back soon.” Alec touches my arm and looks at Bill, sending him a private message.

Alec’s led to a side office, and the solid door closes behind them.

“Is Alec signing autographs, or should I even worry about what’s going on in that room? Has Josh been here the entire time messing with evidence?” I ask Bill.

“Alec’s prepared for all contingencies. I’m surprised they haven’t taken Jennings down to the station by now.”

A few minutes later, Alec emerges by himself. “They weren’t going to allow us to talk to Josh, but I persuaded him. It shouldn’t be much longer.”

For what feels like an eternity, we sit in ladderback pine chairs with brown cushions while Alec keeps adjusting his watch. I don’t know what Alec had to promise the officer. Autographs are fine with me, but if he had to pay him off, I’d rather not know.

“I hope Brad is parked in the shade somewhere.” Alec looks at his watch for the eighth time in twenty minutes and turns to me. “Now that we’re here, they seem to be in no hurry to get rid of us. I’m sorry, Anna. Hold on a little longer.” His smile is an honest one full of regret.

I’ve heard the sentiment from him so often it doesn’t even register with my brain anymore. We both have a lot of work to do in the I-promise-to-do-better department.

The closed door at the back wall opens, and a guy pokes his head out, surveying the room. He’s fiftyish and, with his reading glasses, reminds me of Gen’s studious accountant.

Alec pivots, and his earlier smile vanishes.

“That’s Jennings,” Bill says quietly.

“Yes.” Alec waves to draw the man’s attention.

A confused Josh looks at us and then the floor as if he’s embarrassed. Eventually he settles his eyes on Alec. “I wasn’t sure you’d come. My attorney should be here soon. Come back to the conference room.”

Bill asks Alec, “Is it okay to go on ahead?”

Alec must have compensated the officer well to allow us entry this close to the crime scene.

“Let’s get this over with.” Alec seems queasy.

The three of us move through the aisle between desks and toward the room with a door left open for us. Josh has already gone inside. For someone who wants Alec’s help, he sure doesn’t appear happy or grateful for his effort. A huge effort. This had better not be Josh’s way of buying himself out of the woman’s death. The disgrace of being fired from Signorile after Pearce’s tragedy has to hurt his pride.

There’s news of a deadly virus moving through Europe, and the typical handshake is no longer being used between business execs.

Bill lifts his arm and catches himself. “Mr. Jennings? My name is Bill Drake, an associate of Mr. Zavos. You’ve asked to see him, and we also have some questions for you on another matter.”

“Wonderful.” The man in a sweaty, slept-in polo isn’t thrilled with us staring him down. There’s frost in the room as testosterone flies between glances. No one wants to be the first to break the sheet of ice forming around the presumed blue-eyed killer. Alec hasn’t made any assumptions yet until we talk to him, but Josh’s cool facade feels calculated to me. A superior to Alec, or something like that. For an innocent, I don’t like his peculiar behavior in the presence of a man who’s here to keep his neck from a noose.

“I asked to see Alec. Who are the rest of you?”

He’s behind a chair, using it as a shield to save himself from a CEO who wants to take his livelihood from him again. Or is it because he’s guilty of ending a woman’s life?

Alec pulls out the chair for me, and we all sit at the long conference table with a fancy letter F embellished in the center.

Josh’s temples bead with sweat, and he’s wringing his hands next to a wool felt fedora hat with a band. They seem to be popular in Italy. The guy’s bloodshot eyes and dark circles are sure signs of insomnia and stressing to the max. Wet ovals hang beneath the armpits of his beige shirt.

Alec’s unshakable gaze lands on Jennings, who abruptly turns away.

This meeting isn’t opening well.

Bill addresses Josh. “We don’t have a lot of time. Authorities aren’t thrilled with us questioning you, but they were… let’s say, swayed. Tell us what happened here?”

“She was tied and tortured in my office after I left night before last. I opened the building in the morning at seven and found her lying on her side, strapped to a chair and wrapped in wire near my desk. Lots of blood.” Josh holds a paper towel over his mouth, then uses it to wipe away perspiration. “When I left the building, she was in the conference room. I have no idea how she ended up in the office. Maybe the cat went in there.” He slides the fedora into his lap.

“Who is she?” Alec asks.

“Benita Alvarez.”

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About the Author

“Mystery at a killing pace”

Marlene M. Bell is an award-winning writer, artist, and sheep breeder who resides in beautiful East Texas. Her renown sheep photographs grace the covers of many livestock magazines.

The third book in the Annalisse Series releases in 2021. Scattered Legacy is an international mystery with light touches of romance. Stolen Obsession and Spent Identity, books one and two, received numerous awards including the Independent Press Award for Best Mystery in 2020. Her mysteries can be found at marlenembell.com.

Marlene also writes children’s books. Her first children’s picture book, Mia and Nattie: One Great Team! is based on true events with Natalie from the Bell’s ranch. It’s a touching story of compassion and love between a little girl and her lamb. Mia and Nattie is honored to be a Mom’s Choice Gold Award winner.

Marlene shares her life with her husband and a few dreadfully spoiled horned Dorset sheep: a large Maremma guard dog named Tia, and cats, Hollywood, Leo, and Squeaks. The cats believe they rule the household—and do.

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