The Beautiful Murders: A Jess & Fiona Mystery, #1

By Barbara Diederich

Jess Stang planned her flight from Saskatoon carefully. After quitting her job and selling the house, she retreats to her cabin nestled by a lake in the beautiful forests of Northern Saskatchewan.  A broken engagement, the death of her mother and a chance meeting with her vindictive ex-husband leave Jess with shattered emotions and a need to escape. Her northern property promises the peace she so desperately craves.

What Jess doesn't expect is a chain of events leading her on a journey of twists and turns … and a fight for her life. Murder, kidnapping and a handsome, if irritating neighbour are complications she can live without! 

Fortunately Jess’s best friend Fiona is by her side every step of the way even though she has problems of her own.

Will the woman survive the killer’s murderous rage? Will Jess and Jack ever get it together? Hold on tight as Jess & Fiona race to uncover a murderer’s identity before they become the next victims.

The Beautiful Murders, A Jess & Fiona Mystery is the first book in this new series.

Approximate length 70,500 words

• Language: English
• Publisher: Barbara Diederich
• Release date: May 25, 2017
• ISBN: 9781540180155

Barbara Diederich

Barbara Diederich lives in a small Saskatchewan community with her beloved pets. Her days are spent writing, gardening, cleaning up after her furry friends and when time allows, painting landscapes. Barbara has been employed as an insurance adjuster, vocational consultant, pastoral associate, and continues to work as a personal injury consultant. Writing stories is a dream come true! Born and raised in Saskatchewan she is content to remain where the sky is big and the people kind.

Book preview

TITLE PAGE

The Beautiful Murders

A Jess & Fiona Mystery

Book 1

Barbara Diederich

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Jess Stang planned her flight from Saskatoon carefully. After quitting her job and selling the house, she retreats to her cabin nestled by a lake in the beautiful forests of Northern Saskatchewan.  A broken engagement, the death of her mother and a chance meeting with her vindictive ex-husband, leave Jess with shattered emotions and the need to escape. Her northern property promises the peace she so desperately craves.

What Jess didn’t expect was a chain of events which lead her on a journey of twists and turns and a fight for her life. Murder, kidnapping and a handsome if irritating neighbour are complications she could live without!

Fortunately Jess’s best friend Fiona is by her side every step of the way even though she has problems of her own.

Will the woman survive the killer’s murderous rage? Will Jess and Jack ever get it together? Hold on tight as Jess & Fiona race to uncover a murderer’s identity before they become the next victims.

COPYRIGHT

Copyright @ 2016 Barb Diederich

All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof

may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever

without the express written permission of the publisher

except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

First e-book edition, 2016

[e-mail]

Cover created with Canva

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I’d like to thank my beta readers; my mom Margaret Schmidt, my brother and sister-in-law Doug and Karen Schmidt, and Brenda Dumonceaux. I couldn’t have done it without you. I took everything you said to heart and believe the end product is better because of you. Thanks.

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Edited by: Brenda Dumonceaux

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Any errors found in this book are my fault only. If not for my beta readers and editor, there would have been many more. Yet despite multiple edits, mistakes are inevitable. Please let me know when you find something amiss by e-mailing me at [e-mail]

DISCLAIMER

Northern Saskatchewan really exists but Ella and Angel Lake are figments of the author’s imagination. None of the characters are real either. That’s why it’s called fiction! Also, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) are a very competent police force and don’t really require Jess and Fiona’s help - it just makes the story more interesting!

PROLOGUE

The wind was unusually vicious. Limbs from old trees were torn from their tethers and scattered haphazardly about. Roads, lawns, flower beds; nothing was out of reach to the flying debris. Cedar shingles no longer clung to the roof of the house next door but were strewn across her back garden like fallen leaves in October. Rain tapped relentlessly at the windows on the west side of the large family room. Lightning flashed, the ear splitting thunder caused the air in the room to grumble and complain as if it were alive. Shawna’s heart thumped in her chest. She’d always been afraid of storms, a gift from her overly anxious mother. 

Spring was like that in Saskatchewan. Warm sun and gentle breezes one day, tornadic winds with lashing rain or snow, the next.

Shawna felt unsettled like the weather; unidentifiable emotions bubbled to the surface, tumultuous and probing, like the raging wind which crept under the doors and through cracks in the walls. She couldn’t identify her feelings she just knew she wasn’t happy.

Petulant, she no longer felt like going out for dinner and drinks. Maybe she’d call and suggest they cancel. Or better yet... she just wouldn’t bother showing up. After all, he stood her up last week, a fact which still grated on her nerves. Mind made up, Shawna flounced into her bedroom with a grin on her face, imagining him sitting and waiting, looking at the door every time it opened. Donning a white cotton eyelet nightgown she settled on the sofa waiting for a call which was sure to come. She’d give him an hour.

Flipping on the news channel she quickly tired of hearing about floods and fires, wars and terrorist attacks. A special report flashed across the screen. The body of a young woman was found near Prince Albert. 

Shawna naively dismissed it and changed to the shopping channel.

*

Looking at his watch again, Al wondered what was keeping her. It was hard to get away tonight but rather than miss another date he’d rearranged his schedule. Now she was late. Angry, he stood up quickly, sending his chair screeching across the floor and drawing curious stares from the other patrons of the intimate, out-of-the-way bistro. Making his way to the lobby, no phone calls were allowed in the restaurant, he dialed her number.

I didn’t want to go out in the storm. She whined.

So you just stayed home. Why didn’t you call? He growled.

Like you called me last week?  Shawna’s voice mocked him.

She has no idea who she’s playing with. Hanging up his phone Al stomped out of the hotel and ran a block and a half to his car while the skies opened up. Dripping wet and determined to punish her, he began to plan their next meeting.

Yawning and stretching in a seductive way, forgetting she had no audience to appreciate the view, Shawna shut off the TV. A deep sigh escaped as she lifted herself from the sofa; she was bored. The storm had passed and she regretted her hasty decision to teach her truant lover a lesson. Perhaps she should call him and apologize. She didn’t mind groveling as long as she got her own way. Thinking better of it, she flipped through the contacts on her phone before stopping at a name that transformed the scowl on her face into a slow spreading smile.

Do you know who this is? Shawna spoke into her phone while tracing a figure eight on her thigh.

Not a clue. Of course Jack knew who it was but as far as he was concerned it was over. Shawna fooled him once. He wouldn’t let it happen again.

Don’t be silly darling. It’s me. Shawna. I’ve been thinking of you for days now so I decided to take a chance and call. I’m sorry how it ended. Why don’t you come over and we can talk.

Not a chance.

End call.

To say she was both surprised and bewildered would be an understatement. Usually the one to end an affair, it was beyond Shawna’s comprehension why any man would dump her. Try as she might, she couldn’t come up with a solid reason for his attitude.

Shawna’s life, all twenty-six years of it, had taught her good looks were an advantage. Her pretty face opened doors and secured privileges beyond reach of most people. Gifted with beauty she had yet to realize it could be a blessing or a curse. Shawna didn’t think like that. It never crossed her mind to look upon her choices as the building blocks of her life. If it feels good do it. If I want it give it to me. If I’m not happy share the pain.

She was gorgeous and knew it. Long thick blonde hair was her pride and joy second only to a body that was perfectly toned and shaped, kept so by regular workouts in the gym. Being eye-candy was a definite plus, but if you got past her mask and beautiful exterior, you’d find a self-centered, ambitious woman, her beauty skin deep.

Shaking his head, Jack reflected on Shawna’s reaction when he hung up on her. She’d still be wondering what happened. He couldn’t believe her nerve, or maybe he could. After all it was Shawna - I love me who do you love? - Shawna.  Rising from his chair Jack retrieved a cold beer, before settling once again in his leather recliner facing the TV. His thoughts returned to the woman who’d cast a spell over him for several months this past winter. He was well rid of her yet somewhere deep inside desire lingered, urging him to get in his car and spend one more night together.  She was like a drug and he an addict in withdrawal. If he stayed strong, the urge would pass. If he kept thinking about her... he’d lose the battle. He couldn’t let it happen.

Her deflated ego needed massaging and Shawna knew just who to call. Al might be angry but he was still a sure thing.

CHAPTER 1

The drive back to Saskatoon was uneventful. One last trip to tie up loose ends and she’d be a permanent resident of Angel Lake. Her mind wandered over the events of the past year; she refused to dwell on Andre. Jess had cried an ocean of tears and she was done grieving what might have been. She couldn’t move forward if she kept looking back.

For twelve months she’d been awash in sadness. Jess’s mother passed away leaving an ache in her heart which for several weeks, throbbed as if alive, consuming any joy that tried to dispel it. Nevertheless, life had a way of dishing-up more than one problem at a time and as the months passed she found the empty place left by the death of her mom quickly filling up with other problems to obsess over.

Screeching brakes, honking horns, revving engines, odorous exhaust - she was back in the city. Noise and traffic had a way of eroding her inner peace; it dwindled until she was goaded into offering a couple of fellow motorists a few rude hand gestures of her own.

To top it all off when she pulled into the driveway of her Saskatoon home for the last time, she noticed a light on in her kitchen. Did she forget to turn it off before leaving? Possible, but unlikely. It was her habit to double-check everything before leaving on an overnight trip. She was sure the light wouldn’t have escaped her notice.

Hesitant, Jess debated calling a neighbour, but decided against it.

You got this!

The door was locked, as expected. Turning the key she paused before stepping into the foyer. All was quiet.

The entryway was separated from her living/kitchen area by an interior wall to Jess’s immediate right. Sidling up to it she took a couple of steps and peeked around the corner. The light above the kitchen sink was on but nothing appeared out of place. Mustering-up courage, she moved into her living room. All was in order here too except a pillow on the front window seat perched precariously on the edge and threatened to end up on the floor. Putting it back where it belonged she turned to survey the rest of the room.

Unable to shake the feeling she wasn’t alone Jess crept through the hall to the first bedroom. The door was open, the room dark. She listened. All was quiet. Reaching her hand around the jamb she flipped on the overhead light. The room appeared empty but she needed to be sure. Moving to the end of the bed - standing far enough away so she couldn’t be grabbed - she lifted the bedskirt and took a quick look underneath. A few dust bunnies missed by the cleaners skittered about, disturbed by a faint breeze.

Now her closet.  Putting her ear to the door, she listened for sounds of occupancy. Counting to three, Jess grabbed the handle and pulled. It was empty, save for a few coat hangers. Shaking, she moved on.

The same routine was repeated in each room on the main floor. Zilch. Only the basement remained and she had no intention of exploring it alone. Propping a chair under the door knob she stood back to observe her handiwork. It would to do for now. After fixing a much needed cup of tea, she sat in her least favorite chair (the furniture she was keeping had already taken up residence in her new home.) and looked around. Suddenly Jess felt an overwhelming sense of sadness. She would miss her little bungalow. Almost empty now, the walls begged her not to leave.

Too late old friend, she said, You’re already sold.

A knock at the door made her jump, splashing tea on her lap.

Who is it? Jess hollered.

It’s me Jess... Fiona.

Twisting the deadbolt she opened her door.

What’s going on? What’s all over your jeans? Fiona asked.

I spilled tea. Jess excused herself to change out of her wet pants. Not to be left behind, Fiona followed her to the bedroom.

Last trip? Fiona asked.

Still gloomy Jess responded to the question with a nod of her head. The Salvation Army will be picking up the rest tomorrow.

Why so glum then?

I put a lot of myself into this place so the move is bitter-sweet. I’ll be fine. A soon as I walk through the door of my cabin. I won’t miss it at all.

I hope you’ll miss me. Fiona said.

No, because we’ll visit often. You’re not getting rid of me that easy.

Fiona’s eyes flicked around the nearly empty room before zeroing in on something out of place. Why is a chair propped up against the cellar door? Fiona asked as she followed Jess into the bathroom.

Hanging her wet jeans beside the shower curtain Jess explained. When I pulled into the driveway I noticed a light in the kitchen. I don’t think I left it on... I’ve combed this floor but I was too chicken to search the basement.

What if someone broke in and you startled him? Fiona scolded. I wish Blake was home. I’d get him over here. He’s at work so you’ll have to settle for me. Fiona was ready to go. A detour on her way downstairs supplied them with make-shift weapons - fire poker and ash shovel.

Jess took the lead, with Fiona close behind. Creeping down the flight of stairs Jess hesitated a moment. She stood looking at the rarely-used family room wondering if this was a good idea. Cautioning Fiona to be quiet she moved quickly now, checking behind odd bits of furniture before doing a sweep of the spare bedroom, bathroom, and storage/mechanical room. They were quite alone.

A creaking floorboard made both women look up in the direction of the sound.

What was that? Fiona asked.

The living room is directly above us. I know the spot. It always squeaks. Jess knew the noise emitted from the loose nail was not spontaneous, it needed a nudge from someone walking on it. They weren’t alone after all.

What should we do? Up until now, their search of the basement felt like a game to Fiona. Realizing someone was in the house uninvited brought home the seriousness of their situation. They were trapped.

From anxious to elated, Jess recognized the next thud. It was the closing of the front door. I think he’s gone.

What if it’s a trick? Did you bring your phone? Fiona sputtered.

Phoneless they waited, listening - until sufficient time had passed for them to be sure the intruder was no longer a threat. The house felt empty.

Sighing with relief, Jess offered Fiona her favorite panacea, suitable for all occasions. How about a cup of tea?

*

Headlights lit up the room. Moving the curtain back to take a look, the trespasser made a sound deep in his throat. Not yet. His head swiveled. Where would he hide? A bench seat nestled under the large bay-window would have to do. A clicking sound - the deadbolt- warned him to hurry. With no time to waste he crawled into the cramped space. The lid settled into place a nanosecond before Jess entered the room.

Craig had a plan to get Jess back. He was a good looking guy and even though seducing women was not a problem, he was bored with one night stands and short lusty affairs. It had been more than a decade since he’d laid eyes on her until one day a few weeks ago... she was looking good. Pacing the floor he began formulating a plan. He didn’t expect her to be a willing participant at first however his overinflated ego felt sure he could change her mind if they spent time alone together. Her early arrival home just about messed things up... the bench seat saved his day.

His thoughts went back to the first time they met. She was young and bendable, the perfect age and personality, he could mold her into the woman he wanted. Unfortunately she didn’t go along with his plan. After the first few months she lost interest in trying to please so their marriage began to suffer. He didn’t like hitting her. If she’d behave, he’d stop. A woman, like a child or a dog, required discipline. If training seemed extreme at times, he figured the end justified the means - a compliant loving wife.

When Jess left him he searched for her for awhile, but soon got bored with the chase. Besides, someone more pliable was already waiting in the wings.

The next marriage was a repeat performance of his first and after a particular nasty fight it all went wrong, ending in his wife’s accidental death. The Law saw it differently. They called it manslaughter and he was sentenced to seven years. Out in five and a half, he still thought his penalty was too stiff and carried around resentment like an overstuffed backpack.

Free again, he’d rambled around doing odd jobs, not all legal, making money however he could. Now he had a sweet deal going and before long cash would be flowing. His plan was coming together. It won’t be long ...

Actually he’d forgotten all about Jess until spotting her at a grocery store wearing tight jeans and a body hugging sweater. Still flaunting it! Right there and then he determined to recover what was rightfully his and began laying out a plan.

Dragging his thoughts back to the present - now was his chance to leave. He’d get all his ducks in a row before approaching her. No point rushing things.

He felt himself becoming aroused, thinking of the moment when she would be his again.

*

She’d done it! Her house was sold; the move finally over. Driving from Saskatoon to Angel Lake took the better part of three hours and all the back and forth of the last few weeks had worn her out. Truth be told, she was worn out before she’d started. But it was worth it; she was officially a full-time resident of Angel Lake.

Cruising down the highway, singing along with her radio, Jess revelled in the feeling of freedom which came with leaving the city behind. Hers was one of a few vehicles on the road, the sun was shining, a breeze from the open window tickled her cheek and all was well for a change.

Peace and quiet were hers.

Money was no longer an issue either. House prices had soared since she’d purchased her city property, leaving her with a tidy profit. Jess’s was an only child so she inherited the family cabin mortgage free and a small payout on her Mom’s life insurance policy.

Another contributing factor in her decision to sell-up and move was to insure she never ran into her ex-husband again. Really, it was the final impetus. Craig gave her the creeps; the farther away from him the better. Jess was in pursuit of a life free from tangled relationships and emotional turmoil. Her cabin at the lake promised isolation and simplicity.

Things had become unmanageable. She was tired - so very tired. It had taken all her strength to get through the move, but she could rest now. And think. Disappointment followed her around like an unruly dog on a leash, always pulling and straining until sapped of strength, she could no longer fight back. Her latest dysfunctional relationship was the final nail in the coffin.

Last summer when Andre proposed; she said yes. A big wedding wasn’t his style; small and intimate was much more appealing, so they planned a spring ceremony in a park with only their closest friends in attendance.

Discovering the true nature of her betrothed before their vows were uttered was fortuitous. He’d found someone new. Between the time of their engagement and Christmas he’d managed to meet and fall in love with a big-mouthed extrovert. Jess hated them both. Her ex-fiancé’s new fiancé was Jess’s cousin which made his betrayal even worse. Apparently they’d met at the same family reunion attended by Jess and her husband-to-be. But now, she was a single woman again. It read like a soppy romance novel. Adding insult to injury, she’d received an invitation to their summer wedding... their big, expensive summer wedding. As if. She didn’t even bother replying.

Realizing there was no such thing as a soul mate, at least not for her, she’d quit looking. Maybe the move would dispel the dark cloud which clung to her like a static-charged sweater on a cold winter day.  

Up ahead was the turn off for the grid road leading to the small community of Angel Lake. A couple of miles later another turn-off signalled she was close to home. Taking a right hand fork in the road she sighed with pleasure and excitement. Just about there! Jess was tempted to hang a left and check out the picturesque little village housing mostly older retirees and a few tree-huggers, except she was thirsty. Sightseeing