Showdown at the Saloon

By Jamie L. Adams

From author Jamie L. Adams comes a cozy mystery that fans of Yellowstone will fall in love with!

Lily Cranston couldn’t be happier with the way her life has turned out thus far. Managing the Calico Rock Mine and Ghost Town in her hometown of Grady, California is a dream come true. Employed by the city she and her sisters grew up in gives her a sense of belonging and stability. Like a well-oiled machine, the work of her faithful and dedicated staff allows her to spend more time with her hunky boyfriend, CSI Cody West. Life is finally looking up...until the night she finds the body of an apparent hitman on the side of the road! As if that weren’t bad enough, in his pocket is her sister’s name and address.

Has someone really put a hit out on sweet, lovable Ava? To keep her sister safe, Lily must once again use her sleuthing skills to unlock the mystery. Her search for answers takes her on a journey filled with family secrets, ghost seekers, organized crime, and more suspects than she can count. As the possibilities mount without any clear answers, time may be running out for more than just one of the Cranston sisters.

"The Ghost Town Mystery book series is going to be a favorite of mine!"
~ Cozy Mystery Book Reviews

" Murder at the Mine Earns 5/5 Calico Bonnets ... Clever Cozy Fun!"
~ Kings River Life Magazine

• Language: English
• Publisher: Gemma Halliday Publishing
• Release date: Jan 16, 2024
• ISBN: 9798215367681

Jamie L. Adams

Jamie L. Adams fell in love with books at an early age. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott opened her imagination and sparked a dream to be a writer. She wrote her first book as a school project in 6th grade. Living in the Ozarks with her husband, twin daughters, and a herd of cats, she spends most of her free writing, reading, or learning more about the craft near to her heart.

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SHOWDOWN AT THE SALOON

a Ghost Town Mystery

by

JAMIE L. ADAMS

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Copyright © 2024 by Jamie L. Adams

Published by Gemma Halliday Publishing

http://www.gemmahallidaypublishing.com

Cover design by Daniela Colleo

of http://www.StunningBookCovers.com

All rights reserved. Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in, or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of both the copyright owner and the above publisher of this book.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, brands, media, and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of various products referenced in this work of fiction, which have been used without permission. The publication/use of these trademarks is not authorized, associated with, or sponsored by the trademark owners.

I’d like to dedicate this book to the amazing women who have made the writing of this series possible. As always thank you to my wonderful agent, Dawn Dowdle, for believing in me and my awesome publisher, Gemma Halliday for giving me a chance. It would be a real crime if I didn’t thank my amazing and brilliant editor, Chris Hall. I couldn’t imagine a greater group of people to have on my side.

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CHAPTER ONE

All in a day's work.

It was a perfectly normal day at work when I rounded the corner in front of the sheriff's office and came face-to-face with six men dressed as cowboys. Decked out in tan-colored chaps over dark blue denim jeans, they looked like they could have been part of a posse. They all wore western style vests on top of long-sleeved flannel shirts. My first thought was they must be members of a singing group.

This was my third tour of the day, and it wasn't even noon yet. I'd been hoping for something different, and apparently, I'd gotten my wish. They all looked to be in their mid to late thirties, and most of them had light stubble facial hair. They could easily have been a group of cowhands from the 1850s returning home after a long cattle drive.

I caught a glimpse of my reflection in the jailhouse's windowpane. My mouth hung open, and I was staring, so I pressed my lips tight and glanced away from the group for a moment. Still feeling flustered, I tucked a wayward strand of dark, curly hair back into the floral bonnet that was a part of my costume. Ignoring the warmth creeping up my neck, I smiled and said, Good morning, gentlemen. Welcome to the Calico Rock Mine and Ghost Town. My name is Lily Cranston, and I'll be your guide today.

Good morning, ma'am. The tallest of them pinched the brim of his Stetson and gave me a direct nod. His southern drawl was thick and authentic, as if they had transported The Park back in time. My partners here and I are pleased to meet you.

Likewise. I stepped forward with my hand out to shake his when the heel of my boot caught on the edge of the boardwalk, sending me off balance. A pair of muscular arms caught me and set me straight.

Careful there, little lady. My would-be-hero's dark blue eyes lingered on my face a little longer than necessary.

Heat filled my cheeks, so I looked away and rubbed the palms of my hands against my vintage white cotton apron. Thank you, I mumbled and marched to the door of the sheriff's office. We'll start here at the jailhouse and finish up at the mine.

I took a deep cleansing breath, and once I'd regained my composure, I began my usual spiel. If you have any questions along the way, feel free to stop me and ask.

The spurs on the heels of their boots clicked and clattered on the wooden floor as the men followed me into the sheriff's office. The group appeared to listen with interest as I gave a brief history of Grady's lawmen and some of the more interesting arrests made back in the day. I gave them a few minutes to explore the cells with original rustic cots and barred windows. Sheriff Tom came in and offered to lock them up, but they declined the tall, dark-haired lawman's proposal. Back on the boardwalk, curiosity got the best of me, and I had to ask, Are you all part of a singing group or something?

Someone in the back of the group let out a snort, and a ripple of laughter spread among them.

None of us can hold a tune in a bucket, ma'am, but we are all members of a group, explained the tall man, whose name I'd discovered was Nick. We're rodeo clowns back in Oklahoma and decided to spend the off-season this year visiting California.

They had chosen the perfect time of year to visit The Park. Longer days with warmer temperatures renewed spirits and put a bounce in the steps of our reenactors. Spring flowers and the return of green grass colored the landscape.

The image of them wearing big wigs, red noses, and colorful outfits put a smile on my face. How do you like it here so far? I asked.

We're not sure, another man answered. I had yet to learn all their names and made a mental note to have tour guests wear nametags. We just arrived last night.

And your friendly ghost town was the first stop on our list. Nick gave a playful bow as if I were royalty.

Well, in that case. I stared at him in amazement and then returned his gesture with a small curtsy. We're honored to have you visit us. Do you mind my asking why you chose the ghost town as your first stop?

Nick slapped the man next to him on the back and explained, Roy here's cousin, Chris, is one of the stuntmen in your Wild West Show. We're all here to cheer him on this Friday.

Roy's smile grew wide with pride at the mention of his cousin's name. People from all walks of life were willing to travel far distances to see one of our western dramas acted out live. The shows drew a crowd every weekend and even made the news.

The stunt crew's company has an impressive selection of scripts to choose from, I said. That, as well as a bit of improvising each time, makes each performance seem new.

After touring the historic shops and businesses along Main Street, I led the group of high-spirited men to the mine where they could watch ore being extracted from the recently discovered vein. My part of their tour had ended, so I gave them directions to the saloon as they'd requested and then bid them farewell.

I strolled down the hill and back to my office to meet my boyfriend, Cody West. We'd officially become a dating couple last fall, but the thought of spending time with my high school crush still sent my senses into overdrive. Tourists filled the street, so I refrained from skipping. The county CSI officer, Cody was tall and muscular with dark hair and the most mesmerizing brown eyes I'd ever seen.

We'd planned to have lunch together before his meeting with the stunt crew this afternoon. The Park's administrative building was hidden near the entrance. On the outside, the telegraph office appeared to be a small room, but behind the telegrapher's desk, a door led to our administrative headquarters. It was one of the few places on the property with electricity and a land line. We had a waiting room where the receptionist handled calls, a kitchenette, a lounge for employees, and my tiny office.

As I approached the building, I noticed an older woman with her arms crossed, tapping the toes of one of her feet against the boardwalk in frustration. She had short silver-blond hair and wore large glasses. The pink fuzzy pullover sweater she had on looked cute with her black capri pants. As The Park's director, it was my job to keep everyone safe and happy. Ma'am, may I help you? I offered.

She pulled her attention away from the entrance long enough to huff out an explanation. Yes, you might be able to. I'm supposed to meet someone for lunch at the restaurant. I can't imagine what's keeping him.

If the look in her eyes indicated her disposition, my mind filled with sympathy for her tardy companion.

Is it possible he's already there waiting for you? I asked since she had her focus on the front gate rather than in the direction of the café.

I won't know until I find the place, now will I? She let out another huff—this one laced with irritation—and glared at me. I don't know my way around here very well.

Management training 101-smile, smile, smile.

You're almost there. I pointed toward Main Street. The Calico Rock Café is right around the corner.

Thank you. Her words of gratitude felt more like a slap in the face. You'd think someone would put up signs or a map to make it easier for people to get around.

I didn't bother to point out the sign behind her with a listing of major attractions and places to eat or the stand with free maps next to the entrance. Have a nice day, I said and then slipped inside the telegrapher's workplace, where I dashed into the lobby of our main office. At the receptionist's desk, Cody stood chatting with Gretchen. When the door chime rang, they both turned toward me.

Hi. I gave a little wave with my fingers and took a quick breath before adding, Sorry I'm late.

No problem. With a smile on his face, Cody met me halfway across the room, took my hand, threading his fingers through mine, and leaned down to give me a kiss. Although we'd been dating for several months, his touch still sent a tingling sensation through the very core of my being. While I savored the moment, he glanced at his watch. I still have an hour before my appointment. There's enough time for us to have lunch if you're able to get away.

That depends, I said as I moved closer to the receptionist's desk. Have you had your lunch yet, Gretchen?

I ate earlier in the break room. The bleached blonde gave us one of her mega-bright smiles and waved us off with her hand. You two go have some fun.

Great, I thanked her. I'll see you this afternoon.

Cody held the door for me, and we left the building. We rarely got to eat lunch together, but as our volunteer safety officer, he was here to oversee the security issues for an upcoming show, and I got to spend some extra time with him.

Where do you want to eat? Cody asked when we reached the corner. He took my hand and placed it in the crook of his arm. At the café or the saloon?

I loved the Calico Rock Café's lunch menu, but the memory of that grouchy woman I'd spoken with earlier came to mind and made my decision for me. Let's go to the Watering Hole today, I said.

The ghost town's saloon, named The Watering Hole by the original owner, Henry Holt, was a popular attraction to The Park's more mature customers. The weather was nice, and we took our time strolling along the boardwalk side by side. I told him about the more interesting tours I'd given this morning. When we reached the end of Main Street, I pointed out the cowboys entering the saloon on the other side of the road. Looks like we almost missed them.

Lily! Sheriff Tom met us halfway across the street. A look of concern covered his face. There's trouble at the Watering Hole.

What's wrong? I asked as we all three picked up the pace and continued toward the saloon. We were just on our way there for lunch.

An intoxicated guest is refusing Max's suggestion that he dry out before leaving. Tom sounded out of breath as he mounted the steps to the porch.

I followed Cody and Tom into the saloon. The first person I saw was Trudy Miller, the head server. In costume for the part she played, the shapely dark-haired woman wore a red and black corset skirt that matched the feathered headpiece covering her long hair. Next to her stood Paul Snodgrass, our short balding piano player. Both looked shocked by the commotion taking place at the bar. They were the only two people in this section of the tavern besides Max Wilson, our bartender, and the man causing trouble. Seated on the other side of the large building in the dining area, all six cowboys watched with wide-eyed interest.

You can't hold me here against my will. A stocky man with a round face and dark brown hair pulled back in a bun staggered near the bar. He wore a bright hunter orange shirt, which seemed a bit odd considering it wasn't hunting season, and a pair of blue jeans. I know my rights.

Our bartender, Max, was a big man, and his six feet plus frame had the angry patron blocked from exiting the saloon. I glanced around the room, and the cowboys I'd just given a tour of The Park waved at me. With a slight nod, I returned their greeting.

What's the problem here? Cody marched toward the bar. Tall and muscular, he'd worn his officer uniform for the stunt show he'd oversee this afternoon. My man looked and sounded official.

Trudy and Paul came to stand beside me, and Trudy whispered, He says his name is John. He started with a couple beers and then moved on to shots of whiskey.

Yeah, Paul added. He could barely stand when he started for the door.

He isn't sober enough to be driving or to be walking out in public, Max explained. I suggested he hang out in the lounge until he's able to at least walk without falling.

As if on cue, John let out a burp and then slumped down onto the nearest chair. Cody glanced toward me, and I motioned for him to take charge of the situation.

It looks to me like you have two choices. Cody stood over the man who'd laid his head on the top of the round wooden table. Do what Max says, or you can come with me to the station.

All right, all right. John raised his head slightly.

Max and Cody helped him to his feet and half led, half carried him to the backroom Max used as a lounge when on a break or for customers too tipsy to drive. Once everything settled down, Cody and I found a table farther from the front door and ordered sandwiches for lunch. His meeting started in less than an hour, so we didn't have a lot of time to spend eating.

Apparently done with their drinks, the cowboy posse marched single file past our table. The last one in line, Nick, tipped his hat and said, Have a nice day, Miss Lily.

Cody's brows rose, and he kept an eye on the parading men until they were gone. He then directed his attention my way. Do I need to go buy a pair of chaps?

No. I covered my mouth to keep from giggling. It's just part of the job.

Trudy brought our food and placed it on the table. Enjoy your meal.

It's going to be quiet at home tonight, I said to Cody after Trudy was gone.

Why is that? he asked before taking a bite of the patty melt he'd ordered.

Ava has a dinner date with Parker and his daughter, Jenny. I still found it hard to think of Parker Sloan as my younger sister's boyfriend. Ava had married her high school sweetheart right out of college. After his premature death years ago, I never imagined her with anyone else. But Parker seemed to make her happy, and that's all that counted.

Too bad I'm on duty tonight, he said with a playful grin. We could have ordered in.

Before I could reply, Trudy came by to see if we needed our iced teas refilled. We were both good, so she went to the bar to chat with Max.

When we were alone again, Cody asked, How's Parker's daughter settling in?

Jenny moved to Grady a few weeks ago to get to know her birth dad. Ava was helping her boyfriend and his estranged daughter feel comfortable with one another. Recently, Jenny had discovered the man who'd raised her wasn't her biological father and that her real father had been paying her way through college.

She has an interview with me in a couple of days, I told him. The committee had decided it was time to fill the job for a re-enactor at The Park's newspaper office. Character actors played the part of Old West townspeople throughout the park. We hired some people, and we recruited volunteers for other less time-consuming roles. The newspaper editor's job was to answer questions and explain the different duties required to put out a newspaper back in the 1880s, as well as creating a weekly mini newspaper with news and special events happening around The Park. Ava and Parker both thought Jenny would be perfect for the paid position.

After lunch, Cody and I parted ways when we reached the main office. He was off to his meeting, and I had work to do.

I'll call you later, he promised after giving me a quick but sweet kiss goodbye.

It was late by the time I'd finally signed out for the day and locked up the office. Until last year, we hadn't had any real safety issues, but after a few serious incidents,