Reckonings: An All Hallows' Eve Tale

By Kevin Matthew Hayes

No one escapes their reckoning in this thriller about an off-campus Halloween house party that goes wrong for three friends as they explore what happens when you learn the truth of your own tragedies.

 

After Florida college student Jessica is convinced to attend a Western-themed party, she sets out with her friends for a night

• Language: English
• Publisher: Kevin Matthew Hayes
• Release date: Jan 26, 2024
• ISBN: 9798989559701

Book preview

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Copyright © 2023 by Kevin Matthew Hayes 

All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a book review. 

ISBN: 979-8-9895597-1-8 (paperback)

ISBN: 979-8-9895597-2-5 (hardcover)

ISBN: 979-8-9895597-0-1 (ebook)

Prologue 

Celebrations had erupted in the gaslit streets of San Antonio as men from all around the area came to enlist in General Sibley’s new army. Some wanted pay, some wanted to protect the rights of the South, and others were looking for an adventure and a chance to serve in the war. In the middle of the commotion, aristocrats and public officials made speeches defending the cause of the South. 

As the night got underway, a young man named Jacques rode into town on horseback to take in the sights and enlist. He didn’t want to miss out on this adventure. He tied up his horse at a hitching post and got in line in front of one of the many recruiters who were set up at tables all along the sidewalks. While waiting in line, he listened to an older man with a large belly wearing a fine suit speak to the crowd. He spoke with a deep Southern drawl. 

I’m Representative Arnold. Most of you know me as Dr. Arnold. For years I have represented this town at the state capitol and fought for all of you. Through my medical practice, I have gotten to know many of you, and I know what’s important to you. I believe I speak for everyone in this town when I say that we all are proud of our boys in uniform and have their backs at all times as they fight for our independence and rights. Washington has pushed us for years. Now it’s a reckoning… 

Jacques began to tune the doctor out when it was his turn to sign up with the recruiters. Their table was located in front of a saloon. After he signed up, the recruiters told him when and where to report so he could begin training. After receiving his first order, Jacques headed into the saloon to buy a beer. 

When he walked through the swinging door of the packed saloon, Jacques was surprised to see a beautiful young woman standing on the other side. Wearing a gown, she was fair-skinned and blond and looked to be about his age. She seemed to be just as surprised as him. 

Jacques tipped his slouch hat with a smile and said, Ma’am. 

The young woman smiled back and looked down at the floor. Jacques continued to head toward the counter to order. While he was waiting, he turned to look at the girl again. She headed across the room and began to speak with a woman slightly older than her. The woman had dark hair, fair skin, and a red gown. With her were an African American man and an African American woman. He was wearing a fine suit, and she was wearing a gown as well. 

Jacques thought to himself, "The older woman with dark hair must