Missing: Sue Lee Mystery, #18

By D.M. SORLIE

Introduction to the short story "Missing" by D.M. Sorlie:

In the enchanting setting of 1950s Paris, a tale of mystery and intrigue unfolds on the houseboat Past Breakers, where Hermione and Granny Kate, two astute art detectives. 
As the first light of dawn illuminates the River Seine and the majestic Eiffel Tower, a shadow of apprehension falls upon the tranquil scene.
The disappearance of Colette, a close friend of Meg's sets the stage for Hermione and Granny Kate to embark on a journey that will test their intellect and resilience. 
The mystery deepens with each clue they uncover, leading them down a path fraught with unexpected twists and turns.
Amidst the unfolding drama, a mysterious package arrives containing a rare and valuable Fabergé egg that holds the key to unlocking long-buried secrets. 
As Hermione and Granny Kate delve deeper into the mystery, they face a new antagonist who challenges their wit and determination like never before.

Set against the backdrop of Paris and the ever-changing River Seine," Missing" is a captivating tale that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. 
Join Hermione and Granny Kate as they navigate a world of deception and danger, where every clue brings them closer to unraveling the truth behind Colette's disappearance.
 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Enchanted Island Publishing
• Release date: Mar 15, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224012046

D.M. SORLIE

D.M. is a native Arizonan living in Scottsdale, traveling has inspired several of his books throughout the years, including historical fiction, especially with a mystery thrown in.   Sue Lee Mysteries started after visiting an antique shop in Honolulu with the purchase of a vintage World War Two recruitment poster for women to serve. It was haunting knowing all the possibilities open for woman during those perilous times.   

Book preview

Chapter One

MADEMOISELLE CARTIER

PARIS 1954

She observed him as he meticulously dressed, his attention focused on each button, a familiar ritual. With a nonchalant air, she pulled the covers back, unbothered by her nakedness, a deliberate act that she knew unsettled him in his traditional ways. She casually lit a cigarette as he struggled into his trousers, the smoke curling lazily in the air.

Leaving Paris tonight, Ben? Mademoiselle Cartier inquired, already aware of the answer as she discovered the night train ticket to London and airline tickets to Boston concealed in his suit—a roundabout route to evade detection.

Yes, you have your instructions, along with enough French francs for expenses and a bonus for last night, he confirmed, reaching over to playfully pinch her nipple. However, a mishap occurred as hot ash from her cigarette scorched his hand, causing him to recoil in pain and protect his pristine white silk shirt.

You did that on purpose! he accused, his anger simmering.

She shrugged indifferently, the cigarette dangling from her lips. Our evening is over unless you’re willing to pay more.

You... he began, raising his hand as if to strike her, but hesitated.

Mademoiselle Cartier, a woman of poise and confidence, calmly rose from the bed, her movements graceful and deliberate. As she stood, a glint of steel caught the light, revealing a sleek gun in her hand. Her unexpected action caused the man in the room to recoil in surprise, his voice tinged with shock and curiosity as he demanded, What’s that for?

With a hint of amusement in her voice, Mademoiselle Cartier quipped, I always carry a gun when I go to the bathroom, before closing the bathroom door behind her with a soft click. The sound of the shower starting masked her movements as