The Cabinet of Curiosities

By Patti Petrone Miller

In the secluded town of Hemlock Hollow, an ancient cabinet filled with supernatural relics holds unimaginable power. When the cabinet's dormant artifacts are awakened, chaos ensues, and the town becomes a battleground for the forces of light and darkness.

Enter Detective Max Martin, a skeptical investigator with a penchant for logic, and J

• Language: English
• Publisher: AP Miller Productions
• Release date: Aug 6, 2023
• ISBN: 9781088237847

Book preview

Chapter One

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows through the trees of Hemlock Hollow. Its roots ran deep in history and mystery, from its bewitching woods to its quaint town square. A mere 2,000 souls called it home, but whispers of witchcraft and supernatural events kept most outsiders at bay.

Julietta Evens strode down the cobblestone path, her lean frame moving with purpose as the last rays of sunlight flickered through the foliage above. Her striking green eyes scanned the surroundings, taking in every detail. As a freelance writer specializing in the supernatural, she felt inexplicably drawn to Hemlock Hollow’s enigmatic past.

Good evening, Ms. Evens, said an elderly woman, shuffling past her with a smile.

Evening, Mrs. Harrington, Julietta replied, her confident demeanor unwavering despite the town’s eerie atmosphere.

Going to the museum again? Mrs. Harrington inquired, her curiosity piqued.

Indeed, Julietta confirmed, her thoughts wandering to the ancient cabinet housed within the small building on the outskirts of Hemlock Hollow. The cabinet held artifacts that hinted at the town’s supernatural history, and Julietta couldn’t shake her fascination with the enigmatic piece.

Be careful, dear. That place gives me the creeps, Mrs. Harrington warned, her eyes clouded by concern.

Thank you, but I’ll be just fine, Julietta assured her, her voice strong and steady.

As she continued on her way, Julietta mused over her connection to the town’s mysteries. What was it about Hemlock Hollow that pulled her in so strongly? Was it merely her love for the paranormal, or something more profound?

Hey, Julietta! A friendly voice snapped her out of her reverie.

Hi, Tom, she greeted, meeting the gaze of the local barista. Heading home?

Yup, just closed up. You off to the museum again? Tom asked, his eyes alight with curiosity.

Can’t seem to stay away, Julietta admitted, a half-smile playing on her lips.

Be careful in there, he said with a hint of concern. You never know what you might uncover.

Isn’t that the point? Julietta countered playfully as they parted ways.

As she approached the town’s edge, Julietta felt an odd mix of unease and excitement. Hemlock Hollow hid secrets within its shadows, secrets she couldn’t resist unraveling. She only hoped her curiosity wouldn’t lead her down a path from which she could not return.

Here goes nothing, she whispered to herself, stepping through the door of the Hemlock Hollow Museum, ready to delve deeper into the unknown, compelled by forces unseen.

As Julietta walked the cobblestone streets of Hemlock Hollow, she couldn’t help but notice the eerie quiet that had befallen the town. The sun was setting, casting long shadows that stretched out like tendrils, creating an atmosphere of unease. She passed by the old Victorian house on the corner, and a chill ran down her spine as she noticed flickering lights in the empty windows. They seemed to dance as if beckoning her closer.

Evening, Jules, came a voice from behind her. It belonged to Mr. Jenkins, the elderly owner of the local antique shop. He wore a mischievous grin as he adjusted his glasses. Strange things are happening tonight, don’t you think?

Seems that way, Julietta replied, exchanging a knowing glance with him. Have you seen anything unusual?

More than usual, he admitted, chuckling. Mrs. Thompson swears she saw a shadowy figure darting between the trees on the outskirts of town. And last night, I heard unearthly howls echoing through the woods.

Sounds like Hemlock Hollow is living up to its reputation, Julietta mused, half-joking. While she trusted her gut, she couldn’t help but wonder if these occurrences were connected to the town’s supernatural past or simply the product of overactive imaginations.

Maybe so, Mr. Jenkins agreed, his eyes twinkling mysteriously. But remember, this town has a way of keeping its secrets close to its chest. You never know what you might find if you dig too deep.

Julietta nodded thoughtfully, recalling her own troubled history. Her parents had perished in a mysterious accident when she was just a child, an event that had haunted her ever since. She had spent years searching for answers, hoping to uncover the truth about that fateful night. The supernatural world had always called to her, and Hemlock Hollow seemed like the perfect place to continue her quest.

Thanks for the advice, Mr. Jenkins, she said, before continuing her walk. She pondered his words, considering how they might apply to her own situation. As she passed the old oak tree in the town square, a gust of wind stirred the leaves above her head, sending a whispered warning through the air. It was as if the spirits of the town were cautioning her against delving too far into the unknown.

Whoever said curiosity killed the cat didn’t know the half of it, Julietta murmured to herself, determination igniting within her. The strange happenings in Hemlock Hollow only fueled her desire to uncover the truth, and she would not be easily deterred.

Besides, she thought with a wry smile, I’ve always been more of a dog person, anyway.

Julietta stood outside the cozy little coffee shop, Common Grounds, feeling a shiver run down her spine despite the warm sunlight filtering through the trees. She hesitated for a moment, gathering herself before stepping inside. The familiar scent of freshly ground coffee and the low hum of conversation enveloped her, providing a sense of comfort. As she approached the counter, she exchanged pleasantries with the barista, a young woman named Sarah who always greeted her with a smile.

Morning, Julietta. The usual? Sarah asked, reaching for a mug.

Actually, I think I’ll go for something a bit stronger today. A triple-shot latte, please, Julietta replied, forcing a grin.

Rough morning? Sarah asked sympathetically, her eyes filled with concern.

Something like that, Julietta admitted, her mind wandering to the eerie occurrences she’d been experiencing in Hemlock Hollow. It’s just… this town sometimes, you know?

Sarah nodded knowingly. Yeah, things can get pretty strange around here. But we’re all in it together, right?

Right, Julietta agreed, her heart swelling with gratitude. She accepted her steaming latte and found a quiet corner where she could work on her latest article about supernatural phenomena. As she settled into her seat, she couldn’t help but overhear snippets of conversations from the other patrons.

Did you hear that howling last night? It sounded almost… otherworldly.

Strange lights in the woods again. I swear, there’s something out there.

Old Mrs. Thompson swears her house is haunted. Doors slamming, cold spots, the works.

Julietta’s fingers hovered over her keyboard, her thoughts racing. Each whispered tale added fuel to her determination to uncover the truth about Hemlock Hollow and her own past. She felt an inexplicable connection to this town and its mysteries, as if some unseen force were pulling her deeper into the shadows.

Focus, Julietta, she whispered to herself, trying to block out the distractions. She began typing, the words flowing like a torrent as she delved into the world of the supernatural. Her heart raced in tandem with each keystroke, her resolve unwavering.

I won’t let you down, Mom and Dad, she thought, the memories of her parents’ mysterious accident haunting her every move. I’ll find the truth, no matter what it takes.

As she continued to write, she couldn’t shake the feeling of unease that seemed to follow her around Hemlock Hollow. Yet, despite the mounting fear, she also felt a sense of excitement – a thrill that coursed through her veins, urging her to embrace the unknown.

Maybe it’s time I stopped running from this connection, Julietta mused, her eyes glancing up at the intricate dreamcatcher hanging in the shop window. Maybe it’s time I finally faced my fears… and found the answers I’ve been searching for.

With renewed determination, Julietta typed faster, her eyes shining with purpose. And as the sun dipped below the horizon outside Common Grounds, casting eerie shadows on the walls, she couldn’t help but feel that Hemlock Hollow held more secrets than she could ever have imagined – secrets that were just waiting to be discovered.

Determined to search for answers, Julietta found herself standing before the Hemlock Hollow Museum – a small, unassuming building tucked away on the outskirts of town. The museum’s weathered exterior hinted at its age, while vines crept up its walls, merging with the surrounding woods.

Here goes nothing, she muttered under her breath as she pushed the door open, the hinges creaking in protest.

As she stepped inside, the scent of musty old wood and decades of history filled her nostrils, causing her heart rate to quicken in anticipation. The interior was dimly lit, casting shadows across the collection of artifacts related to the town’s supernatural past.

Hello? Julietta called out softly, her voice barely more than a whisper. Is anyone here?

Ah, welcome! A voice replied from behind an ancient-looking desk. An elderly man emerged, his eyes twinkling with curiosity. What brings you to our little museum?

Research, replied Julietta, flashing him a polite smile. I’m writing about Hemlock Hollow’s... unique history.

Ah, a writer! You’ve come to the right place, my dear, the man said, his grin widening. Feel free to explore and ask any questions you may have.

Thank you, Julietta murmured, her gaze wandering the room, absorbing every detail.

As she ventured deeper into the museum, a particular artifact caught her eye – an ancient cabinet with intricate carvings that seemed to dance across the aged wood. She approached the cabinet cautiously, her hand hovering above the handle, the cold metal sending a shiver down her spine.

Strange, she thought, her heart pounding in her chest. Why does this feel so... familiar?

The artifacts within the cabinet seemed to emit a faint glow, their energy palpable even through the glass. Julietta couldn’t take her eyes off them, the pull she felt towards the cabinet growing stronger with each passing second.

Are these...? She trailed off, turning to the elderly man who had appeared at her side.

From our town’s more… supernatural history? Indeed, they are, he confirmed, his voice low and slightly ominous. Many believe they hold a certain power, but of course, that is merely speculation.

Of course, Julietta echoed, though her thoughts raced with possibilities. I wonder what kind of power they could possess.

Ah, my dear, that is a question for the ages, the man replied cryptically. But I must warn you, curiosity can be a dangerous thing.

Julietta shivered as his words settled in, but she couldn’t deny the allure of the cabinet and its contents. As she continued to examine it, her mind filled with questions, unease, and a sense of inevitability – an odd combination that only heightened her intrigue.

Thank you for your warning, Julietta said finally, her voice firm. But I’m no stranger to danger. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned in Hemlock Hollow, it’s that sometimes, the truth lies hidden in the most unexpected places.

Julietta’s fascination with the cabinet seemed to grow by the minute, her piercing green eyes transfixed on the eerie glow of the artifacts inside. The musty scent of ancient wood permeated the air as she leaned in closer, taking note of every intricate carving and detail.

Could you delve deeper into these artifacts’ histories? Julietta inquired, directing her gaze to the museum curator. Are there any intriguing tales or origins you can share?

The curator carefully adjusted his glasses before answering. Certainly, Julietta. For instance, this amulet here dates back to the tumultuous times of the witch trials. It's believed to have been worn by a woman accused of practicing dark arts. And this diary, he motioned towards an old leather-bound book, belongs to the 19th century, during a period when the town was rife with eerie happenings and unexplained events.

Eerie happenings, Julietta repeated, a subtle smile playing on her lips. As the curator recounted these tales, she mentally connected the dots, searching for a link between Hemlock Hollow's supernatural lore and her own lineage.

Yes, the curator affirmed, these artifacts don’t just sit idly in display cases; they tell of Hemlock Hollow’s concealed layers, where a world of darkness and enigma lurks just below the surface.

As he spoke, Julietta couldn’t help but feel as if he were describing her own life. Ever since the tragic accident that took her parents, she had been searching for answers, delving into the unknown to find some semblance of truth. The supernatural had become both her solace and her obsession.

Would you happen to know if any of these artifacts are related to... unexplained deaths? She hesitated, her voice barely above a whisper.

Unexplained deaths? The curator raised an eyebrow. My dear, many events in our town’s history could be described as such. But I suppose that’s what makes Hemlock Hollow all the more intriguing.

Julietta nodded, her gaze returning to the cabinet’s contents. In her heart, she knew that this place held the key to unlocking the mysteries that had haunted her for years. And perhaps, just maybe, the answers she sought were hidden within these very artifacts.

Thank you, she said quietly, her determination renewed. I’ll be back to explore more of the museum’s collection soon.

Take care, my dear, the curator replied as Julietta turned to leave. Remember, curiosity can lead us down paths we never expected.

Julietta smiled at his words, her green eyes sparkling with anticipation and resolve. Little did he know that she was no stranger to the unexpected. And whatever path lay ahead, she was ready to face it head-on.

Julietta returned to the museum a few days later, her mind racing with thoughts of the artifacts and their possible connection to her parents’ deaths. As she approached the cabinet once more, she noticed that the air seemed heavier than before, as if weighed down by an invisible force. It felt like walking through a thick fog.

Ah, you’re back, the curator greeted her, his voice tinged with caution. You seem quite taken with this cabinet.

I can’t help it, Julietta admitted, her eyes locked on the ancient carvings. There’s something about it that calls to me.

Indeed. The curator hesitated for a moment before continuing. But remember, my dear, some things in this world are better left undisturbed. Curiosity can be our undoing.

His words sent a shiver down her spine, but she couldn’t ignore the burning desire within her to uncover the truth. She gently placed her hand on the cool surface of the wood, feeling a sudden jolt of energy that left her breathless.

Are you all right? The curator asked, concern etched upon his face.

Y-yes, she stammered, trying to shake off the sudden chill that had enveloped her. It’s nothing. Just a little... cold in here.

Perhaps it’s time you took a break from your research, he suggested, not unkindly. The mysteries of Hemlock Hollow can be quite taxing on the spirit.

Maybe, she conceded, though she knew in her heart that she couldn’t walk away from this place without finding the answers she sought. But I need to know the truth. I need to know what happened to my parents.

As Julietta spoke those words, she could feel them reverberate through the room, as if the very walls were listening. The air grew colder still, and the soft hum of electricity that had been present up until now ceased altogether. The room was plunged into darkness, save for a faint, otherworldly glow emanating from within the cabinet.

Wha-what’s happening? Julietta whispered, her breath visible in the frosty air.

The curator looked around; his normally unflappable demeanor shaken. I don’t know, he admitted, his voice barely audible. But I fear we may have stirred something that should have remained dormant.

Julietta’s heart pounded in her chest as she stared at the cabinet, unable to tear her eyes away from the eerie light. She could feel it calling to her, urging her to unlock its secrets, but she couldn’t shake the sense of foreboding that clung to her like a shadow.

Be careful, my dear, the curator warned, his voice trembling with fear. There are forces at work here that we cannot comprehend.

As he spoke, a low, unsettling growl echoed through the room, originating from the depths of the cabinet itself. Startled, Julietta took a step back, her pulse racing.

Whatever lies within this cabinet, the curator whispered, his voice barely audible over the sound of their pounding hearts, it is awake... and it is hungry.

Chapter Two

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the quiet town of Hemlock Hollow. Its 5,000 residents enjoyed the peace and serenity that came with living in a small town nestled within the picturesque landscape of upstate New York. Among these inhabitants was Julietta Evens, a 30-year-old librarian with a penchant for unraveling mysteries.

It was on one such evening that Julietta found herself walking home from work, her footsteps echoing through the deserted streets. She breathed in the crisp autumn air, her breath visible as she exhaled. With her long, dark hair tied back into a loose ponytail, her piercing green eyes scanned the surroundings as if searching for something hidden just beneath the surface.

The atmosphere in Hemlock Hollow had always been tranquil, but tonight, it felt disquieting. A blanket of stillness enveloped the town, broken only by the distant sound of crickets chirping in the background. The eerie silence weighed heavily upon Julietta’s shoulders, causing an uneasy shiver to run down her spine.

Hello? she called out tentatively, her voice barely audible. Is anyone there?

No response came, save for the incessant chirping of the crickets. The atmosphere grew increasingly tense, and Julietta couldn’t shake the feeling of being watched. Her heart raced in her chest, pounding against her ribcage like a caged animal yearning for freedom.

Get a grip, Jules,