Neighborly

By Lenzi Abma

"... She is practically a saint."

"Except that she's a murderer."

 

In 1871, the reclusive Rita Owens commits a horrific act that saves her

• Language: English
• Publisher: CHNO Publishing
• Release date: Sep 27, 2021
• ISBN: 9781737646617

Book preview

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Neighborly

by Lenzi Abma

This book is a work of fiction. References to real people, events, establishments, organizations, or locales are intended only to provide a sense of authenticity, and are used fictitiously. All other characters, and all incidents and dialogue, are drawn from the author’s imagination and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to persons living or dead is entirely coincidental.

Neighborly by Lenzi Abma

Published by CHNO Publishing LLC

www.chnopublishing.com

Copyright © 2021 Lenzi Abma

All rights reserved.

No portion of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods in any form without permission from the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews, and as permitted by U.S. copyright law.

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Cover by Nicki Grace Novels

ISBN: 978-1-7376466-0-0 (print)

ISBN: 978-1-7376466-1-7 (ebook)

Printed in United States of America

First Edition

February 1871

As a true lady, Mrs. Arnette never ran. Ladies, she knew, did not ever run or rush because ladies were always perfectly on time. Mrs. Arnette was not running up the stone path to Christine Bottom’s house. She was hastening. When she reached the porch, she leaned against the post briefly to quiet her breathing before taking a steady step to the oak door and giving two quick knocks on the copper door knocker.

After a moment, a young girl with wide, dark eyes opened the door. Her deep brown skin was glowing against her frilly yellow dress.

Good morning, Mrs. Arnette, the girl said with a quiet, timid voice.

Good morning, Petunia, dear, Mrs. Arnette said, smiling down at her. You look lovely this morning!

Petunia beamed and held out the skirt. Pop had Miss Rita Owens make it for my birthday.

Mrs. Arnette raised her eyebrows. Is that so? she said with a smirk. Is your mother available?

Petunia turned toward the kitchen, her hand still on the door. Well, Mrs. Arnette, my mother says she is very busy this morning. She told me not to let anyone disturb her. The girl’s head was down while she was speaking, but the look she gave Mrs. Arnette from beneath her thick eyelashes made it clear whom Mrs. Bottom was trying to avoid.

That’s all right, dear, Mrs. Arnette said.