Wolf Haven: Moon Grove Paranormal Romance Thriller Series, #5

By Maggie Anderson

A town veiled in secrets, a sinister nemesis, and a battle to the death that leaves devastation in its wake…

 

An electrifying clash threatens to shatter the serenity of Moon Grove. A malevolent force, once a trusted ally turned adversary, driven by a dark vendetta to obliterate the werewolf population, arrives in the town. Among the targets are Eli Blackwood, the town's Sheriff and wolf pack Alpha, his wife Paige, his formidable Alpha female, and their infant son, as well as their loyal pack.

 

The safety of the town teeters on a razor's edge, and Eli, torn between safeguarding his pack and the lives of the townsfolk, grapples with the dire fate that awaits their intertwined worlds. The survival of all supernatural beings within the town hinges on a precarious thread of unity, one he has procured over time.

 

In a sudden, chilling twist, Eli vanishes, leaving Moon Grove at the mercy of their ruthless foe. As the desperate search for him yields nothing, Paige faces an excruciating decision, one that will shatter her soul. And yet, she has no choice.

 

The line between life and death will blur, loyalties will be challenged, and sacrifices will be made. The fate of Moon Grove hangs in the balance, and the battle for survival has never been more crucial. The clock is ticking.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Bella Luna Books, Australia
• Release date: Sep 17, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223093831

Book preview

CHAPTER ONE

Sheriff Eli Blackwood stood on the sidewalk, hands on hips, his scrutinizing gaze following the pack of bikers rumbling along the main street. It was rare for bikers to travel through Moon Grove. They usually stayed on the highway that bypassed the town. His gut tightened as he watched the group of six pull their Harley Davidson motorbikes into the curb, front wheels facing, outside the double story, dark wood building, climb off and stride into the saloon. A bit early in the day for a beer, he thought. Why are they here?

He continued along the street on the opposite side of the road and stood across from The Thirsty Toad, his eyes remaining on the Old West style, louvered swinging doors that were now still. His intuition prodded him to walk across and go in, but logic warned him to be cautious. He didn’t like the fact that these leather-clad, bandanna wearing rednecks had stopped in his town, and he had a distinct feeling they were here for a reason. Not just passing through. Had trouble arrived in Moon Grove once again?

Eli tugged his cell from the pocket of his blue denim shirt, checked the number for the business on the internet, and keyed it in. The line rang for a long time before the proprietor finally picked up.

Thirsty Toad.

Cayden? It’s Eli Blackwood.

What can I do for you, Sheriff? The animosity in his curt tone was evident.

Some guys just walked into your bar...

So? They’re paying customers.

That’s not what I’m concerned about.

What then? Cayden huffed out a frustrated breath. I’ve got work to do.

You know things. What’s your take on them?

You mean do I think they’re supernaturals?

Yes.

So you’re asking my expert opinion? A smug smirk crossed Cayden’s stubbled face.

Eli didn’t answer right away, then said, I am.

Silence. It amused him that the sheriff would ask for his help.

Cayden?

Yeah, yeah, I’m here. He huffed out another sigh. They are.

What kind?

Demons.

Ok, thanks.

What are you gonna do?

If they leave peacefully, nothing. If they don’t they’ll have me to deal with.

Be careful, Eli. Those dudes mean business.

What does that mean?

I heard part of their conversation when I served their beers.

And?

They were talking about the warlock and some book he has in his possession. I think they aim to steal it.

Eli’s Lycan hackles rose. Thanks for the heads up.

You might want to tell Eldridge Crane to hide it.

It’s hidden.

Yeah? Well maybe not well enough. He rang off.

Eli’s frowning gaze remained on the front entrance of the saloon. Should he go across and make his presence felt? Warn them off? He ran the idea around his mind for a moment. Probably not a good idea, at this point. He walked back to his Jeep and climbed in. Better to be safe than sorry. He’d head out to the cabin and talk to Eldridge. Make sure no one can get their hands on that book.

***

Eli climbed the wooden treads, stepped onto the front porch, and knocked on the door. Eldridge, are you in there? He took a step backwards and waited. The demon bikers must have been sent to Moon Grove to retrieve the book. But by whom? He was relieved to know that they hadn’t realized there were two copies and the warlock had hidden them both.

The door opened and Eldridge frowned, raising his hand to shield his eyes from the outside glare. What... time is it?

Eli checked his watch. Almost midday. Were you sleeping?

A sheepish look crossed the warlock’s wan face. I... was, yes, he said, embarrassment in his tone. He swung the door back. Come in.

Thanks. Eli stepped into the living room and Eldridge closed the door.

What brings you out this way? The warlock wrapped his dark burgundy robe around his lithe frame and tied the belt.

We have trouble.

Eldridge’s left eyebrow arched. Oh? In what capacity?

A group of bikers rode into town an hour ago. They’re currently at The Thirsty Toad drinking. I spoke to the owner, Cayden, and he told me they’re here for the book.

The warlock’s eyes widened. The book!

Eli nodded. Yes. He also told me they’re demons.

Demons?

Eli frowned. Are you ok?

Eldridge glanced over his shoulder to the stairs leading up to the loft above, then back at the sheriff. Uh, yes, I am fine. Why?

You seem...

Eldridge? A female voice echoed from above.

Just a minute, my love.

A perplexed expression crossed Eli’s face and he pointed up to the loft, frowning into the warlock’s eyes. Is that...?

Before Eldridge could answer, Rosemarie came to the railing, a navy colored sheet wrapped around her voluptuous frame. Oh my, Eli!

Eli’s gaze moved to her. Rosy. He could feel his cheeks growing warm. Rosy and the warlock were... in an intimate relationship. He felt embarrassed all of a sudden for barging in on them. His honey colored eyes returned to Eldridge. Can you come by the station later to finish our conversation?

Eldridge’s smitten gaze returned to Eli. Of course. Give me an hour and I’ll meet you there. He walked across and opened the door.

Eli stepped outside. Sorry for the intrusion.

The warlock waved the comment off. No apology required.

I’ll see you in an hour?

Most assuredly. Eldridge closed the door.

Eli stood, his gaze fixed on the closed door. Rosy and Eldridge? He shook his head, turned and trudged down the steps. That was a revelation he hadn’t seen coming.

CHAPTER TWO

As Eli drove to the corner he spotted the OPEN sign in the Tribune window and pulled into the curb outside. There must be a new editor in town he hadn’t heard about, and he thought he would introduce himself to get a feel for the new guy or woman. Always a good idea to suss out new residents to Moon Grove, just to be sure... would they be human or supernatural? Only one way to find out. He opened the car door and stepped out onto the road, his gaze roaming the quiet street. Once again, the knowing inhabitants of their township were cautious since the biker gang rode into town. He made a mental note to find out more about them.

Opening the wood and glass paneled door, and stepping into the Tribune office, Eli noticed the absence of the jingle above his head. The small brass bell was gone. It had been a feature Archer had added to keep track of who came into the office when he was out back in the print room or the other smaller office off the short hallway. Eli realized he missed that sound as he looked up. He gave a heavy sigh and closed the door. No one was present, which meant the new editor would be in the print room.

Eli wandered through the office and out back. The whole place had a different feel to it now. Not at all as welcoming as it had been. He stood at the opening to the expansive work space, his gaze roaming the area around the machines for a new face. There. He crossed the concrete floor and stopped beside one of the large printing presses. Geoff, the head printer, gave him a thin smile, and the new editor turned around.

Sheriff, I didn’t see you there, the editor said, extending his hand. Campbell Sinclair.

Eli shook it. Eli Blackwood.

Yes, I’ve heard things about you.

Good things I hope.

"Only good things, I assure you. Campbell motioned to the exit. Shall we?"

Eli turned and headed back into the main building.

Is there something I can do to help you, Sheriff? Campbell took his seat, Archer’s seat, at the desk.

No. I thought I’d introduce myself and welcome you to our town. Settled in ok?

Uh, yes, thank you. I’m staying at the inn until I can find a suitable rental property.

Fair enough. Betty and Hal Rogers will look after you. They’re great people.

Good to know. He eyed the sheriff with curiosity, then said, Well, thanks for stopping by. I’m sorry I have to rush you off but I’ve got a lot to do now that the Tribune is running again. He was contemplative for a moment, thinking of the sudden death of his predecessor. I’m sorry for your loss. I know it’s been a while now, but it’s never easy losing someone you care about.

Thank you. I appreciate that. Eli gave him a thin smile. I’d best be going. I’m sure we’ll see each other around town.

Of course. And if you need help with anything you know where to find me.

Yes, I do. Eli headed for the door to the street.

Oh, Sheriff, have a good day. Campbell flashed him a white-toothed smile.

Eli tipped his Stetson. You too.

When he reached the patrol Jeep, Eli climbed in and sat for a moment. He hadn’t gotten any unusual vibes from the editor, but that didn’t mean he wasn’t a supernatural creature of some kind. Moon Grove was a magnet for them. Starting the engine, Eli did a U-turn and headed back to the station. Eldridge should be arriving there any minute and he needed to talk to him about securing those books so no one would find them.

***

Eli parked the Jeep in the station’s parking lot and noticed his grandmother’s Chevrolet already sitting at the end of the row of cars. Eldridge was inside waiting for him. He opened the door, tugged the key from the ignition, and climbed out. They had a lot to discuss. And he needed to find out more about the biker gang that seemed settled in at The Thirsty Toad. Perhaps Eldridge could assist with that.

He pushed open the front door to the office and stepped inside, hung his Stetson on a hook on the wall, then crossed the office. Rosemarie was quiet, not her usual cheery, welcoming self and he realized they would have to have a conversation about the incident out at the cabin later, to clear the air. What she did on her own time was her business, and Eli wouldn’t interfere. He had no reason to. If Eldridge Crane was her choice, so be it.

Eli poured himself and Eldridge a coffee and carried the mugs into his office, closing the door behind him with his foot. He set one mug down in front of the warlock then rounded his desk and took his seat. Sorry you had to wait.

Eldridge raised his hand. Not a problem at all. I have not been here long. He picked up the mug of coffee sitting in front of him and took a cautious sip.

You seemed a bit frazzled before. Do you remember what I told you?

There is a biker gang in town that has come for the book. Yes, I remember... and I was not frazzled.

Eli shrugged. Whatever. Are both copies of the book secure?

Perfectly.

You’re sure?

Eldridge sat the mug back down on the desk and gave Eli a disgruntled scowl. Of course I am sure. Do you honestly believe I would just leave them lying around?

That’s not what I meant.

Well that is how it sounded.

The bikers are not just anyone. They’re demons.

Yes, I remember. Eldridge folded his arms. I can assure you the books are safe.

They can’t be accessed at all?

Not on this plane.

Eli leaned forward, resting his elbows on the desk blotter. What does that mean?

They are in another realm.

An unsettling feeling spiraled through Eli causing a sick feeling in his solar plexus. Not the shadow realm?

It’s the safest place for them right now.

Eldridge, Scarlet’s in the shadow realm. Or have you forgotten? What if she gets her hands on them?

Where I have placed them no one can touch them. He gave Eli a smug smile.

I hope you’re right about that, because if she does find them she’ll be back here to exact revenge.

"She will not find them." Eldridge was adamant.

Eli’s gut shrank. He wasn’t so sure about that, but he’d have to trust Eldridge’s word.

"Stop worrying. They are safe."

Eli’s right eyebrow arched as he looked at the warlock, but he didn’t say any more. Can you find out about the bikers at The Thirsty Toad? We need to know where they’re from, who sent them, and where they’re staying.

I will do my best to help. Eldridge picked up the mug of coffee and took another sip. Any of those scrumptious blueberry muffins about by any chance?

Not today. Rosemarie was busy... elsewhere.

Eldridge gave him another sheepish look.

CHAPTER THREE

When Eli returned to The Thirsty Toad the biker gang was no longer there. Pushing open the swinging saloon-style doors, he stepped into the bar and made his way through the round wood tables over to the counter where Cayden was drying drinking glasses and stacking them on the shelf behind him, the expression on his face turning sour when he spotted the sheriff.

What can I do for you, Sheriff Blackwood? He set down the dish cloth and glass in his hand and stepped up to the counter.

Any idea where those bikers have gone?

Cayden folded his arms. Do you think I have time to keep track of everyone that comes in here for a drink?

You overheard what they were saying, and they were here for quite some time, so perhaps you heard more of their conversation while you were serving them.

Cayden gave a heavy sigh. And why should I help you, Eli? Haven’t you made my life difficult enough? I’m lucky to still be in business.

"You do the wrong thing, you get caught. Simple as that. And you are still in business so don’t give me any grief over it. I need your help. That book those guys were referring to could be dangerous in the wrong hands for all of us, including you. So, I’ll ask you again, did you hear anything? Where they’re staying?"

Cayden gave it some thought. Ok. They said something about setting up camp in the woods. He shrugged. But I didn’t hear where.

Convenient.

Cayden scowled. What’s that supposed to mean?

You just said why should you help me, so I guess this is payback.

Look, if it’s as bad as you say, and if I heard something, I’d tell you.

Eli’s right eyebrow arched. Would you?

Yeah, I would.

Give it some thought and if you remember anything else call me. Eli turned on his heel and headed back across the bar.

Eli?

The sheriff glanced over his shoulder. Yeah?

I’m not hiding anything. I didn’t hear where those dudes were setting up camp.

Right. Eli pushed through the doors onto the street.

As he stepped onto the sidewalk he almost ran into Campbell Sinclair. Hey, sorry.

In a hurry? the editor asked.

Not really. Why?

Can we have a chat?

Eli frowned. What about?

Campbell pointed along the street to the inn. Why don’t we get a coffee and I’ll explain?

Ok, sure.

The pair crossed the road and headed to the Moon Grove Inn.

On entering, Betty Rogers came up to the pair. Hello, Eli. Here for food?

No, just coffee, Eli said. He pointed to the dining room. Ok to go in?

Betty smiled. Of course. Take a seat and I’ll bring the coffee over to your table.

They took a table by one of the windows, sitting opposite each other.

Eli leaned back on his chair and folded his arms. So what did you want to talk to me about?

Betty crossed the dining room with the fresh pot of coffee.

Let’s wait a minute until we’re alone.

After Betty walked away from their table, Eli asked again. What do you want to talk to me about?

I wanted you to know that I’m a supernatural.

Yeah, I figured. This town draws them here. He leaned in, picked up his mug and took a sip of coffee. What kind? That was something he hadn’t been able to pick up on.

I’m a hybrid. Part were-creature and part vamp.

Eli’s right eyebrow arched. But not a wolf?

Campbell shook his head. No. Large cat.

You mean like a mountain lion or...?

Yeah, something like that.

How are you both?

I was made by the governing body. There are more of us now. They wanted stronger creatures to protect the human population of the world.

You’re all over the planet? Eli set his mug down.

We will be as more emerge.

Why here?

Carmichael sent me because of what happened to Archer Hamilton.

Eli went quiet. Losing Archer was still a constant ache inside him.

Eli? Campbell sipped his coffee.

The sheriff let out a heavy sigh. It’s still painful to talk about.

I understand. And I’m sorry.

So you’re here to help the town? To help me should another threat arrive?

I am. He gave Eli a thin smile. And I will.

Good to know. Eli would call Carmichael and have a conversation with him about sending creatures to Moon Grove without consultation. He appreciated the gesture, but it was imperative that he be kept in the loop when it came to new inhabitants of their town. It was the only way to prevent a disaster from happening. And who knew if Campbell Sinclair was who he said he was?

CHAPTER FOUR

Back at the station, Eli called his deputies and Rosemarie into his office to bring them up to speed on the new arrivals, and to organize a low-key sweep of the woods to locate the biker gang. He realized he still needed to have that conversation with Rosy. He didn’t want there to be any tension between them regarding Eldridge Crane.

What’s up boss? Cooper asked, taking a seat next to Taylor and frowning at Eli.

We have a biker gang in town. They’ve come here for the books Eldridge Crane has in his possession. Well, at least one of them. They obviously don’t know about the duplicate from the shadow realm. Yet. But they’re bound to find out. And they’re demons.

What can we do to help? Taylor asked, giving Cooper a sideward glance then returning her gaze to her boss.

I spoke to Cayden Emerson at The Thirsty Toad and he said he overheard them say they were setting up camp in the woods. I want you to do a thorough, but inconspicuous search and report your findings back to me as soon as you have anything.

Rick raised his hand. What if they spot us?

Eli’s frowning gaze moved to him. Make sure they don’t. We need to find out where they are and who sent them. It’s imperative.

Did Cayden tell you anything else? Cooper folded his arms.

Only that they were discussing the book. I asked him to have a think about the conversation they had and to let me know if anything else comes to mind.

Boss, he’s not about to give up information that could be of any use to us, Cooper told him. You remember what he said when he was arrested?

Yeah, I do. But this affects him too, and he’s all about self-preservation so...

I don’t know. Cooper shook his head. Why would he want to help us?

Like I said, this situation affects everyone in Moon Grove, including him.

I hope you’re right about that, boss.

Yeah, me too.

As his team left the office, Eli asked Rosemarie to hang back. Hey, Rosy, how are you doing?

The receptionist wouldn’t look him in the face. I’m good. You?

Eli perched himself on the corner of his desk and folded his arms. Rosy, would you look at me please?

Rosemarie raised her sheepish gaze up to meet his honey colored eyes. Yes?

Please don’t feel embarrassed about earlier. What you do in your private life is your business. If you have feelings for Eldridge Crane I’m happy for you.

Her eyes widened. You are?

Of course. Eli smiled. If he makes you happy that’s all that matters.

He does.

Then we’re good?

Rosemarie beamed. We are.

Good. Eli stood. I’m going to head home early today. I want to talk to Paige about what’s happening, and spend some time with Tristan.

That’s nice. He’s getting so big so fast.

"Yes, he is. And I want to make sure I’m there for all the one off moments, if I can be."

Go. I can cover here while everyone’s out doing the search.

If any of them calls anything in contact me at home, ok?

Of course. Now shoo with you. Rosemarie smiled. It felt like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders.

I’m glad we’re good, Rosy. I want you to be happy. You deserve to be.

Thank you, Eli, I appreciate that. She rubbed his arm and headed back to her desk.

CHAPTER FIVE

As Eli pulled into the driveway, his gaze wandered across the street to his grandmother’s empty house through the rear view mirror. He missed her every day and knew he would never get over the loss. The house had stood vacant for the past few months and he realized he would have to make a decision about what to do with it. Would he sell it? He didn’t want to think about that right now. Tugging the keys from the ignition, he climbed out of the Jeep and rounded the front of the vehicle, heading for the porch steps.

The door opened just as he reached the welcome mat and Paige stood in the entry hall with Tristan on her hip, his arms out wanting his daddy. Here you go, she said, handing their son to Eli. He’s been waiting for you.

Hey, buddy, Eli greeted his six month old son as he took him into his arms and kissed his forehead. What have you been up to today?

He’s been doing a lot of baby talk. He said dada once. Paige smiled.

Eli’s eyebrows rose. He did? I wish I could hear that.

I’m sure he’ll say it again. Paige turned and headed into the kitchen.

Eli followed.

Dinner smells great. I’m starved. Anything you need help with? He noticed the table was already set.

No, almost ready. I made lasagna with garlic bread and a green salad. Why don’t you pop Tristan in his high chair and go freshen up. Wash off the day.

Sounds good. Won’t be long. Eli harnessed his son into his chair before heading upstairs to take a shower.

Paige busied herself with the finishing touches to their meal and prepared a bottle of formula for Tristan.

A knock echoed into the entry hall.

I wonder who that could be. Paige set the tray of lasagna down on the stove top, unclipped Tristan, picked him up, and headed for the door.

Cooper was on the porch. Uh, sorry to bother you at meal time, but I need to speak to Eli.

Paige smiled. Oh, ok. Come on in. Hungry? I made lasagna.

Cooper’s face lit up. You’re asking me to stay for dinner?

Sure, if you have the time. She closed the door behind him and he followed her into the kitchen.

I always have time for food. Cooper chuckled. Can I hold him? He raised his hands to take the baby.

Here. She passed Tristan to him. I’ll just set another place and dish up.

Hey, little man, how’re you doin’. The baby gurgled at him.

Eli came into the kitchen. Hey, Coop, what’s up? Any news?

Cooper popped the baby in his high chair and sat down at the table. Yeah, we located the campsite.

Paige glanced over her shoulder as she dished up the meals. What campsite?

I haven’t had time to tell you, sweetheart. I’ll explain over dinner.

Oh, ok. Paige passed a bottle of formula to their son, brought two plates across for Eli and Cooper, then collected her own and sat down. Do we have trouble brewing?

Uh, yeah, we do. Eli picked up a fork and tucked into his delicious meal.

Paige gave a huge sigh. When is it ever going to end? She pushed her plate away from herself.

Probably never. Moon Grove is a magnet for trouble. That’s why I’m the sheriff.

I know. But... She sighed, so what is it this time?

A demon biker gang has rolled into town.

The campsite?

Yes. They’ve come here for the book.

Paige’s eyes widened. Eldridge’s book?

The very same.

Boss, I just got a text from Rick and Taylor. The gang is on the move.

Paige’s eyes darted to Eli. You have to go?

I’m so sorry, sweetheart. I’ll be back as soon as I can.

What are you going to do? Paige asked.

Eli turned to Cooper. Rick and Taylor are in pursuit?

The deputy nodded.

Eli’s gaze returned to his wife. We’ll find out where they’re headed and go from there. Maybe they’ll lead us to whoever brought them here.

Paige stood up and came around the table to him, wrapping her arms around his waist and resting her head on his chest. Please be careful.

I will. Eli and Cooper headed out the door.

Paige glanced at her son. I hope life will be different for you, honey. I really do.

***

By the time Eli and Cooper drove into Bellehurst it was almost nine o’clock. Rick had sent another text telling them where to meet, and as the Jeep cruised along the main street, Eli’s gut tightened. Why are the bikers here, of all places? Turning into a connecting side street, Eli pulled the vehicle up behind Rick’s car. He and Cooper climbed out and got into the back seat of the dark green SUV.

Where are they?