Alone in the Desert: Helena Foster Paranormal Mystery, #2

By Mary Ann Carman

Robbery, Murder and a Twist of Fate

 

The pro shop robbery in Mission Park was an unexpected blow to the community that could destroy the future of the golf course. Once Helena Foster's sent to track down their best lead in Tucson, the community feels reassured.

 

Jeffrey, her fiancé and ghostly sidekick, is following another path while in his hometown of Tucson. A cold case involving the murder of one of his former employees from years ago. The trauma cut the victim's future short when she was only nineteen years old. Helena finally concedes to visit the crime scene and an unusual witness comes forward to supply the haunting details.

 

The witness guides them to realize both cases are linked by family ties. Twists, turns, and a dirty cop with his own other worldly agenda confuse the issues as the puzzle pieces fall into place. The family members turn on each other leading to a surprising conclusion.

 

Can Helena and her crew help the police put the killer behind bars before something evil pulls them apart?

 

Buy Alone in the Desert to find out!

• Language: English
• Publisher: My WordsWorth
• Release date: Jan 19, 2022
• ISBN: 9798201628390

Mary Ann Carman

Mary Ann Carman is the author of ten mystery novels and she’s currently in the planning stage on two more, one of which will be a non-fiction author manual/text. She is also the CEO/Founder of SWPenSlinger; a copywriting firm that guides authors and small business in their marketing ventures. Her latest mystery, A Silver Coin, is fifth in her Love After Life series and will be available before Mid-November 2020. She has found mystery to be her super power, even while working as an RN, she researched the special issues her patients were facing. Mary Ann’s first book, Never to Love, won Honorable Mention in the Jada Romance Novel of the Year Promotion in 2004. Joyce Lavene, the author of over 75 novels, said this about Never to Love: It reminded me how good a historical romance could be - and I loved the paranormal elements!  Mary Ann loves the Tucson weather, cooking & baking, crocheting and knitting, and of course reading. Changing recipes or patterns is like revising your plot lines to fit the narrative you’re aiming for. You can also find Mary Ann on Facebook, Goodreads, and BookBub. Sign up for her email list today to get updates and information on new titles. You can follow her on: Facebook   https://www.facebook.com/maryanncarmanthemacteam Twitter   https://twitter.com/Mary_Ann_Carman Google+   https://plus.google.com/u/0/+MaryAnnCarmantheMACteam Instagram   https://www.instagram.com/mary_ann_carman_ Pinterest    https://www.pinterest.com/macarman6                                                                    At her website, http://www.maryanncarmanauthor.com  you will find information about her and her other books. You can sign up for her newsletter to get the latest information or join the “First Readers Club” for free books.

Book preview

Alone in the Desert

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Helena Foster Paranormal Mystery : Book 2

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Mary Ann Carman

Alone in the Desert

a My WordsWorth Publication

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First Edition Copyright © 2015 Mary Ann Carman

Second Edition Copyright © 2022 Mary Ann Carman

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License Notes

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment. It may not be resold or given away. If you would like to share this ebook, please purchase an additional copy for each person with whom you want to share it. If you're reading this ebook and did not purchase it, or if it was not purchased for your use only, please return to the bookseller and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the author's work.

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Disclaimer

This is a work of fiction, a product of the author's imagination. Any resemblance or similarity to any actual events or persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.

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Previously Released As Something New

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Cover Design by Marisa Darling of Cover Me Darling, LLC

Formatting by Debora Lewis at [e-mail]

Also by Mary Ann Carman

Clan Hewit Trilogy

Never to Love

All Will Be Well

Helena Foster Mystery (Previously Love After Life)

Murder Avenged (Previously Something Old)

Something New

Something Borrowed

Something Blue

A Silver Coin

Chronicles Between the Pages

It’s About Time

Life’s Eclipse

Join Mary Ann’s First Readers Club and get access to her books before anyone else.

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Go to MaryAnnCarmanAuthor.com

or PM me on Facebook Messenger.

You can find Mary Ann on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/maryanncarmanthemacteam

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GoodReads:

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/9829218.Mary_Ann_Carman

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BookBub:

https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-ann-carman

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Mary Ann Carman Shopify store has discounted pricing:

https://mary-ann-carman-books.myshopify.com

This book is dedicated to Joyce Lavene who, with her husband Jim, authored over 70 books, most of them cozy mystery.

She was dearly loved by myself and millions of readers. Joyce helped me with questions during the planning stages of this series and has helped many other authors over the years.

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Her loss will be felt forever.

Born May 24, 1954, passed October 20, 2015.

Her Light Will Shine On Endlessly.

Acknowledgments

Thanks to Courtney Baker who allowed me to not only use his name but his occupation as well. He’s guided me through some of the nuances of the profession for one of my villains in this book. Court you’re the best there is, hope your clients know this!

I also want to thank Cisco Estavillo, my partner in crime, for allowing me from Heaven to use his name for the Fourth Avenue cantina. The cantina only exists in my dreams, not in Tucson.

Many of the places in Tucson will be recognizable to true Tucsonans, even with the names changed. I hope you enjoy this and will watch for future predicaments that Helena and Jeffrey get into.

Please check out my website www.MaryAnnCarman.info for info about upcoming books. My Shopify Store is always open for you to peruse and purchase your next read.

I need and love reviews so don’t hesitate to tell everyone about this and all my books.

Dear Readers,

Six years after publishing Something New, the second book in this series, I decided the covers and titles, and even the series name didn’t reflect the direction the series took.

This was a perfect time to remedy that issue all at once. Sorry if it’s confusing. Readers who’ve purchased and loved Something New won’t see much difference in the story, it’s just cleaner after a re-editing.

I appreciate you reading my work. I hope you love Helena and her adventures as much as I do.

Mary Ann

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments

Dear Readers

Seven Years Ago

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-one

Chapter Twenty-two

Chapter Twenty-three

Chapter Twenty-four

Chapter Twenty-five

Chapter Twenty-six

Chapter Twenty-seven

Chapter Twenty-eight

Chapter Twenty-nine

Chapter Thirty

So What’s Next for Helena and Jeffrey?

Other books by Mary Ann Carman

About the Author

Seven Years Ago

Channel 4 News

Christy Atelena, a part time waitress at A Capella on Fourth Avenue was last seen a month ago outside the restaurant waiting for a bus. Her body was found near the Silverbell Mine in NW Tucson area partly covered in sand and brush.

Still dressed in her uniform, no sign of sexual misconduct was noted at the scene or on autopsy. The coroner said she must have died soon after she was last seen. No jewelry or other artifacts were found with the body, and dental records were used to identify her.

Ms. Atelena was unmarried, had no children, and her twentieth birthday would have been a week after she was found. Cause of death is reported to be blunt force trauma.

She is survived by her parents and brother.

Chapter One

Present Day

Jackson Tammy pulled the back of his hand across his forehead, wiping away the perspiration accumulated on this December afternoon. With a temperature of eighty degrees, moving the boxes was taking Jackson longer than he’d planned. Across the desert where his rental unit was, he could see the tall saguaros with their arms pointing to the sun. It felt to him like they were showing him where the heat came from, but he knew well enough already.

He hadn’t wanted to leave California, but he had no choice. It was getting too dangerous to stay and now he was, once again, starting over. He hoped to get some help from his family here in Tucson, but he hadn’t contacted them yet. Now, he wasn’t sure if he would.

He felt a stab of pain in his shoulders as he backed up to turn the dolly around so he could maneuver down the ramp of his U-Haul truck. The old bullet wound reared its ugly head when he least expected it. Now is definitely not the right time.

He’d blocked the front door open with a heavy rock so he could get the bulky containers in without a problem. Jackson aimed the handcart down the path, keeping his focus on the box. He couldn’t afford to have it fall off because of negligence. Too many valuable things in there. As he neared the door, he looked up, then lowered the front of the handcart slowly to the ground, and sighed. The door he’d blocked open was now closed. The rock had rolled away. If he didn’t have bad luck before, he had it now. Leaving the dolly, he walked over to open it again, only to find the door was locked. He was sure he hadn’t turned the lock button, but he must have, and his keys were inside.

He wrenched his cell out of the pocket of his paint splattered jeans and dialed the property manager. He waited while it rang, but in the end it triggered voice mail. He left a message, then returned to his handcart and moved the box as close to the front door of his rental as possible. He’d get the rest of the stuff off the U-Haul and hope she’d call back before he had to return the truck. He didn’t feel comfortable leaving all this stuff sitting on the porch, but without the key, he wasn’t sure what else to do. He didn’t want to pay for an extra day.

He delivered the last box and stacked it near the door when his cell rang. It startled him. He sat on a box and pulled his phone from his jeans pocket, then hit the answer button. For a moment, he thought no one was on the other end, then the sound of glass breaking caught his attention.

His eyes scanned the yard for a second, as he pulled the phone away from his ear, then looked at it. The number on caller ID was the property manager, but what was the sound? Breaking glass?

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Helena Foster awoke to the smell of coffee and threw back the covers. She slid her legs over the edge of the bed to sit, then dug her feet into her slippers. After washing her face and combing her hair, she made her way to the kitchen, pulled a cup off the shelf and poured it full of her favorite coffee, Amy Starller’s special blend. She took a sip before walking into the office. She knew she’d find her spirit partner, Jeffrey Irvington, sitting at his desk.

She stood in the doorway and watched as papers and pens slid across the desktop. Jeffrey, a ghost since his murder on their wedding day, busied himself with straightening his desk. She smiled, glad he hadn’t crossed over to the other side and hoping he wouldn’t have to anytime soon. What do you have planned for today? She leaned her head against the doorjamb and took another sip of coffee.

Jeffrey looked up when he heard her voice and smiled. I wasn’t planning anything in particular, but was kinda thinking it would be nice to see my parents again, you know. The weather will be great for traveling to Tucson and it would give me a chance to look in on A Capella while we’re there. I know my parents are great at running the restaurant, but I like to keep in touch with it while I can. I’m glad we have Ross Wainwright managing Indigo here in Mission Park. The restaurant is a smooth running establishment with him at the wheel. A few pieces of paper slid into an open drawer. What do you think? Could you swing a week away from the hospital?

Helena quirked an eyebrow. I don’t know. I can ask my supervisor. It’s been a while since I took time off. I can only hope no one else wants to take a vacation. If they do, there’s no way I could leave.

Well, when you’re at work this afternoon, check it out. Now, since the restaurants are doing well, you should think about working part time at the hospital. We’d be able to spend more time together, you know.

Helena didn’t want to think about starting part-time right now. She loved her work at the hospital, but she would also love to have more time to spend with Jeffrey. Have you popped over to the station lately? How is Detective Ennis, Michael, coming along on the disturbance they investigated at the Country Club? Helena walked over to sit in the chair across from Jeffrey and sighed. I heard he was still trying to track down leads. It must be hard after so much time has passed. I’m glad....

Jeffrey stood and walked around the desk to stand in front of her. I know. You don’t have to say it. I am too. He leaned forward and dropped a light kiss on her forehead, then sat back on the edge of the desk. The person who stole all the equipment from the pro-shop disappeared or left town soon after. They weren’t able to track him or where he’d been staying. The police only have a description from the lady who noticed a tall guy packing his car full of stuff. She wasn’t sure if he was moving or what, she didn’t pay attention to what he was piling into his car. Unfortunately, there were no fingerprints. Michael’s at a loss for what to do next.

At least a description is good, right? It’s a start. I know he’s asked around town and has sent the sketch he has out to the neighboring communities. It’s been so long now. Does he have any hope of finding where the guy went? Helena stood and started out of the room.

Jeffrey followed her to the living room and sat on the couch next to her, his arm around her shoulder. He’ll get it figured out soon enough.

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Jody walked into the station and across the room to her desk next to Michael’s. What’s on tap for today? We’ve had little activity in town since the robbery at the Country Club last spring.

Michael was working on his computer. Yeah, and I like it this way, but the days get long. I’m still hoping for some sort of confirmation on possible leads from the departments I sent the sketch to. Many of them have sent messages saying they have no match on their books, but there are a few I’m still waiting on. What are you and Ross up to?

Jody Appleby, Michael’s partner, picked up a folder from the pile on her desk and was flipping through it. Well, he finally told me what he was secretive about last spring. The station was nearly empty; she didn’t have to whisper. Not many of the officers arrived as early as Michael and Jody.

Oh yeah. What was it? He stashed his comic books in a wall and wanted to make sure he could get them out? He continued to look at his computer screen as if totally engrossed.

No. She sighed and turned to face him, irritation clearly visible from the crease in her brow. I wish you could see your way clear to at least liking him. It’s difficult to have an ordinary conversation with you the way you trash talk him all the time.

Michael looked down at the keyboard, then raised his eyes to Jody’s. You know it’s the way I feel. I try to remember you two are engaged, but it’s hard. We’ve been like this forever. You know how things were between us in high school.

Changing the subject, Jody turned away, giving Michael her back. Well, I think we’re getting close to setting a date. Especially now with the secret off his chest. She returned to flipping through the file, not paying much attention to what she was doing.

I’m waiting with bated breath. What was he hiding? Michael wanted to hear this. He went to school with Ross and didn’t like him then. Not much had changed over the years. He was, however, eager to hear about what this secret was. He was worried about it during Jeffrey’s murder investigation when he suspected Ross. Turned out to be a wrong hunch, but it would still be interesting to hear the secret.

Setting the file back on her desk, Jody scooted her chair closer to Michael. I know you’re aware his parents rented the space where Indigo is now. Michael nodded and motioned for her to continue. His parents hadn’t told him they were planning to end their lease on the shop. He was still in high school, and he wasn’t with them during the day. He worked at another job doing small chores after sports practice for a while, besides working for his parents.

Jody leaned in. He’d stashed his earnings in the back room since he didn’t have a bank account yet. One day, he went over after school and the place was locked up tight. His parents had moved out while he was busy at his other job. He couldn’t get in and he couldn’t tell them he had been working elsewhere. He thought it would hurt their feelings. You know how they are.

Michael was smiling now. Yeah, I know how they are. He pushed his chair away from the desk and walked across the bullpen for coffee. He lifted the pot toward Jody, but she shook her head. He poured his own and returned to his desk. He dropped into his chair and it squeaked from the weight. I’m sure you’ll tell me, since he wanted to spare his parents any heartache, this shows Ross is human and I’ve misjudged him all along.

Well? Jody stood with her hands fisted on her hips, her lips in a tight line. I think you need to give him a chance.

Michael shook his head. I’m trying here, but... Michael shrugged then returned to looking at his computer screen. How much did he stash? Or didn’t he tell you?

Jody huffed. I’m done here. Eureka has better coffee and better company. She shoved her chair into the desk and it bounced back out again.

Michael smiled and waved at her, not taking his eyes off the screen. His computer dinged, notifying him of new messages. When he opened his mail program, there was a dispatch from the police department in Tucson. Could the suspect have traveled to Tucson?

Chapter Two

Helena arrived home exhausted. She locked the office door before walking toward the bedroom to change out of her scrubs. Jeffrey? Where are you? She received no answer and was immediately concerned. He wasn’t in the bedroom or the office.

Quickly, she moved back into the office and opened the door she’d locked. Maybe he’s in the back. She rushed out the door to their herb and flower garden. The pleasing smells of rosemary and citrus assailed her, but she had Jeffrey’s absence on her mind. He wasn’t sitting on the bench where she usually found him. She was getting worried. Was today the day? Did he leave and not tell me? Couldn’t tell me? Panic set in and she dashed back into the house to call Amy, her best friend.

A cheerful voice answered the phone. Eureka Bakery. Love at first taste. What can I bake for you?

Amy, it’s Helena. I can’t find Jeffrey. He’s not here. I don’t know what to do. Helena plopped on the couch, her voice raw with emotion.

Helena, don’t worry. I’m closing up as soon as I get the bakery cleaned and ready for tomorrow. I’ll be right over. Hold on for a bit longer. I’m sure he’ll show up. He can’t be far.

Tears streamed down Helena’s face. Oh Amy, thank you for coming over. I’m nearly done in after a full shift at the hospital, then coming home to an empty house. I checked the garden already but I have no idea where else he would be.

Amy pushed by Helena through the living room and into the kitchen. She opened the fridge and grabbed a bottle of wine and two glasses. What you need to do is to relax, then we can discuss what our next move will be.

Distraught and ready to collapse, Helena grabbed the bottle from Amy and poured both glasses full. She picked up hers and nearly emptied the contents in one gulp.

Amy picked up her glass and took a small sip. You’re wearing your necklace, right?

Of course, it’s right here. Helena pulled the chain which held Jeffrey’s wedding ring and the locket her mother had brought for her to wear on her wedding day. The ring was still there. I didn’t look in the bedroom to see if my ring was gone or not. You know he uses it to strengthen our connection. They both walked into the bedroom. But there was nothing out of place and her ring was nowhere in sight.

What next? Where would he or could he be? Can he travel without you? Amy walked back into the living room and sat back on the couch. She refilled Helena’s glass, then leaned against the armrest and drew her knees up to her chest.

Helena paced back and forth in front of the fireplace, her brow furrowed and her fists clinched in frustration. He can move around without me, but I don’t know where. The only time he was alone was when I was kidnapped.

Amy looked around the room, then focused on Helena. Sit down, you’re making me tired.

Helena sat, then picked up her glass of wine. Do you think he might be at Indigo? I didn’t call there, but I guess it would be the only other place he might feel at home. Can you call for me? Ross should still be there, but what would we ask him? He can’t see Jeffrey, and I’m not sure he’d understand. Oh Amy, what am I going to do?

You’ll call Michael. He’s the only person I know who might understand. Amy picked Helena’s phone up off the table and handed it to her friend.

Helena dialed Michael’s cell and hoped he was home watching TV and not sleeping. He answered on the second ring. Ennis.

Michael, it’s Helena. I hope this isn’t a bad time to call, but I arrived home and Jeffrey’s not here. I don’t know what to do or where to even start looking for him.

"It’s okay, Helena. I’m still at the station dealing with an investigation. I was leaving, but I’ll check at Indigo to see if I can feel him there. I can’t see him like