Curse of Misfortune: Helena Foster Paranormal Mystery, #8

By Mary Ann Carman

A perilous journey unfolds when Billy Clanton's ghost uses a bewitched a silver pin to link the living and the dead.

Helena Foster, with her mystical abilities, embarks on a mission to the dusty streets of Tombstone to unravel the mystery.

Billy Clanton's ghost roams the streets and threatens violence, but his target and the means to carry out his scheme remain cryptic as he vanishes and communication is lost.

Without direct contact, Helena must pierce the veil between the living and the dead to stop Billy from committing murder from beyond the grave. Will Helena's determination be enough to tip the scales?

• Language: English
• Publisher: My WordsWorth
• Release date: May 10, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224382774

Mary Ann Carman

Mary Ann is passionate about writing, particularly in Paranormal Mystery. Her love of reading is matched only by her desire to make it accessible to all. She envisions a world where the joy of reading is not just celebrated, but is a part of everyday life. Established in 1997 with the creation of "The Clan Hewit Trilogy," Mary Ann's venture into Paranormal Mystery drew on her passion for reading, and her desire to impart this love to others. She strives to deliver works for fans of Paranormal Mystery. Drawing from her various experiences—observing people, watching television and movies, or reading news articles—Mary Ann has a unique way of transforming daily events into her work. Her writing career spans over two decades and encompasses twelve published books (soon to be thirteen) alongside five that have been retired from circulation. Her understanding of the industry led to extending her expertise as a coach and consultant to numerous authors over the past four+ years. Beyond her writing Mary Ann is: a mother and grandmother, an author coach, a retired registered nurse holding two degrees, a former realtor, and of course, an author. Her travels across Europe filled her with a love for history and the paranormal, igniting a passion that runs through her veins. Mary Ann's latest works, the novella Shimmer of Fate and its novel sequel, Curse of Misfortune (scheduled for release in May 2024) mark the start of her new publishing schedule where a novella will be released each fall, followed by a related novel each spring.

Book preview

Curse of Misfortune

Helena Foster Cozy Paranormal Mystery : Book 7

Mary Ann Carman

My WordsWorth

Contents

Title Page

Curse of Misfortune

Also by Mary Ann Carman

I dedicate this book to the citizens of Tombstone, Arizona

Special Note from Mary Ann:

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3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

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20

Sneak Peek at a portion of the next Novella...

Acknowledgments and Thanks

Other books by Mary Ann Carman

About the Author

Curse of Misfortune

a My WordsWorth Publication

Copyright © 2024 Mary Ann Carman

Printed in the United States of America

All rights reserved.

License Notes

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment. It may not be resold or given away. If you would like to share this ebook, please purchase an additional copy for each person with whom you want to share it. If you're reading this ebook and did not purchase it, or if it was not purchased for your use only, please return to the bookseller and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the author's work.

Disclaimer

This is a work of fiction, a product of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance or similarity to any actual events or persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.

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Cover Design by Marisa Darling of Cover Me Darling, LLC

Formatting by Debora Lewis at [e-mail]

Also by Mary Ann Carman

Clan Hewit Trilogy

Never to Love

All Will Be Well

Up to No Good

Helena Foster Paranormal Mystery

(Previously Love After Life)

Murder Avenged (Previously Something Old)

Alone in the Desert (Previously Something New)

Ghostly Allies (Previously Something Borrowed)

Left for Dead (Previously Something Blue)

Sinister Obsession (Previously A Silver Coin)

Cold Stone Corpse

Shimmer of Fate (A novella)

Coming in the Fall of 2024 (A novella)

Chronicles Between the Pages

It’s About Time

Life’s Eclipse

Join Mary Ann’s Newsletter List and get access to her books before anyone else. Go to MaryAnnCarmanAuthor.com

or PM her on Facebook Messenger.

You can find Mary Ann on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maryanncarmanthemacteam

GoodReads:

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/9829218.Mary_Ann_Carman

BookBub:

https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-ann-carman

I dedicate this book to the citizens of Tombstone, Arizona

and the ghosts who live and play where you work every day.

The Town Too Tough To Die community

is comprised of so many wonderful people,

some of the best I’ve ever met.

Special Note from Mary Ann:

First a note about the word Cow Boy. It was a derogatory term and was separated for that reason in the late 1800. It has taken on a new connotation in our modern era and thus the two words have become one. It is not an error on my part.

A single visit to Tombstone doesn’t prepare a writer to gather all the information needed, but it helps a great deal.  Even so, I still wouldn’t have all the wonderful history this exciting town has to offer without the Internet. I hope you enjoy my story and that you will take a trip to visit Tombstone when you’re out this way!

"When you buy a book from an author you’re buying more

than a story. You’re buying many hours of errors and re-writes. You’re buying moments of frustration and moments of sheer joy. You’re buying not just a book, you’re buying something they delight in sharing, a piece of their heart and soul—a small piece of the author’s life."

—ANON

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• Write a review on the site where you purchased your copy, or any place you find this book.

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Explore Mary Ann's Paranormal Mystery!

Check out her website:

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1

Okay ladies, I think we have a plan in place. Let’s do this!

I started making a list of what we might need since it seemed Tombstone was our next adventure.

Audrey got Nora on the phone, and of course she wanted to join us. Nora told Audrey she would contact Maisy to drive her to my in-laws’ place. Great news!

Beth had to leave a message for Darlene. She was working at the library, but I was sure Darlene would let us know when she got the message.

I sat after making my list. I’ll talk to my in-laws, but since they’ll be at the restaurant, it shouldn’t make a difference. Beth, be sure to let me know how Todd feels about the news of our plan. We’ll have six people to protect him, and one or two of us will always be with him. It may help him feel better about the trip.

Beth agreed then stood to leave. She picked up her phone a moment before it rang. Hello. Oh, Darlene. She sat again then looked up at me. You’re on vacation for the next two weeks, fabulous. Will you be able to join us tonight? Beth looked at us and nodded excitedly. Wonderful, I’ll text you the address and phone number. I can’t wait to see you again. She set her phone down and looked at me. Do you think we should contact any of my other coven members?

I thought about it for a second. Let’s talk about it tonight. I think the six of us will be enough to protect Todd and figure out this mystery, but I could be wrong. I’d rather decide as a group.

Beth pushed off the table to stand and leave so she could let Todd in on our plans. Would you lock the door when you leave?

I was talking to Audrey as Beth walked out of the room. Sure, no problem. What about Milo? Will he be okay?

Beth turned back and smiled. Yeah, he’ll be fine. I’ll only be gone a little while, I think.

I turned to Audrey. I hope Todd doesn’t have a problem with our plan, but after what he’s been through, it’s hard to say. We need to get going too. Do you want to go home or come over now? You can let Gil know what’s going on while I drive.

Audrey looked at her phone to see what time it was. I’ll call him from the car. He’ll probably be late coming home, anyway. He’s been working hard on a new case.

I leaned down to pet Milo, and he licked my hand. He’s such a cute dachshund, makes me want one of my own.

We walked out to my car parked at the curb. After unlocking Beth’s door, I turned to her. Did I tell you my friend back in Mission Park had a dachshund named Max? He was cute too and loud, oh my, he was loud. I laughed while we started back to my in-laws’ place.

When I pulled into the driveway, my phone rang. Hi Luci. What? You have the closing set for a week from today? I probably won’t be able to make it. I have a job out of town. Oh, I can sign the papers early and the seller will come in on closing day to do his signing. That’s wonderful. He’ll even leave you the keys? Great. I’ll be available by phone so let me know what time tomorrow so I can get in and sign. I’ll put off leaving for my job until after I’m finished signing. Thanks.

Audrey was nearly jumping out of her seat. Helena, I’m so excited for you. When you get back from Tombstone, you’ll get your keys, and everything will begin new.

I was excited too but had to add the signing to the mix of things to do tomorrow. I was hoping to get an early start for our road trip. Guess I needed to see what everyone’s timelines looked like before I decided.

I gasped. Audrey, I just had another thought. What about Anlon, Sive, and Magnus? Do you think they might want to join us? They would make ten people total and would add two powerful wizards to our group.

Audrey seemed to think about it. I think it might be a good idea, but could Magnus get away from his shop? Are Anlon and Sive still in town or are they traveling by now?

I shook my head. I hadn’t thought about it. Let’s discuss it when we get in the house. Sitting out here in the car is ridiculous. We both laughed and started for the front door.

The house felt oddly empty today. Jeffrey was on the other side checking out information for me, Christy had returned to Mission Park, Maggie was with Magnus, and I didn’t know where Grant was, another ghost in my crazy life. It was Audrey and I for now. I was hungry after talking to Todd earlier in the day. I needed to get something to eat before exerting any more energy.

I stepped into the kitchen, and Audrey followed. She made a noise behind me when I opened the refrigerator. What? She pointed to the open door I was holding, and I followed her gaze. Grant, will you get out of there! You can’t eat any of this and you know it.

He poofed out of the refrigerator and sat on the table looking deflated, if a ghost could take the form of a flat tire.

I looked at him with my fists on my hips, and Audrey was giggling from the doorway. What did you think you were going to do sitting in there? You’re already dead, you can’t eat anything. It’s no use sitting close to food. It won’t make it any easier. I laughed with Audrey.

Grant looked like he was going to pout and disappear.

I put my hand up, as if it would do any good. Stop! You’re not leaving until you explain yourself. Are you having problems? Is there something you need? Maybe we can help you?

He shook his head. I still feel hungry even though I know I can’t eat. I don’t know anyone who can help.

I felt sorry for him, but he was right. I didn’t know how to help him with his problem. I’m having some people over tonight. Maybe one of them will have a suggestion. They are all powerful witches and wizards. Stick around and you might learn something.

He poofed out, and I heard his voice as a wisp of him passed me. I’ll be here tonight.

With Audrey trying to stifle her laughter, I pulled out some ham, cheese, and bread to make sandwiches for us. After we eat, I’ll try to call Anlon and see where they are and if they’d like to join us. Maybe you could check with Magnus at the same time. I’ll need to at least let Pat and Bob know about my little get together, so they’re not surprised if anything gets left behind.

We ate and relaxed a little before making our calls. Jeffrey hadn’t returned yet, so I dialed Anlon while Audrey tried Magnus. Hello Anlon. It’s Helena. Are you still in Tucson or have you moved on? What? You’re in Tombstone? How long are you planning to be there? Another week. Wonderful. Why? Because I was wondering if you could meet us there, but now we’ll be meeting you instead. I can explain everything later. I’m having a little group meeting tonight with a few of my and Audrey’s friends and Magnus as well. One of my friends was down there and picked up a little something from Boot Hill. It’s causing a few issues which need to be ironed out. I hope you and Sive will help us too. Wonderful. See you soon. No, I don’t know exactly when. Can I call you tomorrow to let you know? Great, until then. Bye.

Audrey was nodding while she talked to Magnus, so I waited a moment before I checked to see how the wine and alcohol situation was at my in-laws’. Looked like there was more than enough of nearly every kind of beverage anyone could want.

When Audrey hung up, she was really excited. Magnus will be here tonight. He and Maggie will join us for a while. Might not be the entire time we’re in Tombstone, but whatever help we can get is more than appreciated.

I agreed with Audrey. Our liquor situation looks good too. Audrey popped up out of the chair and wanted to check it out herself. Her way of saying she wanted a glass of wine. I poured two, and we sat in the living room to savor the quiet before the storm of everyone coming over.

I leaned forward to put my glass down. Oh, I need to call Pat and let her know, and you should probably let Gil know you’ll be gone tonight and maybe for the next couple of weeks. Do you think he can take care of himself? I smiled since I knew the answer already. He was more than capable of taking care of himself without her. As long as I’d known them, she’d been with me through a lot of stuff, and he was almost always on his own.

I dialed the restaurant to get Pat, but Bob answered. Hi Bob, is Pat close by? Great, let her know I want to talk to her for a minute. I waited until she picked up the phone. Oh, Pat, good, I needed to let you know I’m having a group of people over tonight. I know you won’t be home until late, but it’s still your house, and I wanted to let you know. Oh, and by the way, I’ll be signing the papers at the title company tomorrow for closing in a week, but I’ll be out of town for the next week or two. I’ll get the keys when I get back. Yes, I’m excited but I have to focus on Todd’s problem right now. Oh, Todd is Beth’s boyfriend. He has a problem I can go into with you in the morning before you leave for the restaurant. Okay, talk to you tomorrow. Bye.

Audrey was refilling her glass with wine. She held up the bottle to ask if I needed a refill, but I shook my head. I needed to have my mind clear. Gil said he won’t be home until probably after I get home tonight, and he’s okay with me being in Tombstone for a while. He might even get some time to join us if he can close this case.

I looked at my watch. It’s about time for our friends to arrive. I’d better get the kitchen cleaned up a little and set out some glasses for drinks.

Audrey stood. I’ll get the glasses set up while you finish the kitchen. Then we’ll be ready in half the time. We rushed around and had just finished when the doorbell rang.

Audrey must have answered the door, since she was in the living room. I could hear her talking while I finished getting things put away in the kitchen. Hi Nora and Maisy, come in and make yourselves comfortable. Can I get you something to drink?

Nora’s glance probably landed on our wine glass as did Maisy’s if I don’t miss my guess. If you have some sweet tea, it would be wonderful. Would you rather have a glass of wine, Maisy? She must have nodded since I heard Audrey direct her to the wine choice before she checked with me in the kitchen for some sweet tea.

I’d already started the sweet tea as soon as Nora mentioned it, so it was ready, and I took it out with me and handed it to Nora. I hope you like it. Will you be able to join us in Tombstone for a week or two?

Nora set her glass down. She was too excited to drink. I can’t wait. I used to live there and have a friend who has a bed-and-breakfast inn. I’m hoping I can help by getting us lower rates. The normal rates can be quite high.

It was one thing I’d thought of but pushed to the back of my mind. We’d need to contact someone for rooms. Perhaps Nora could do that for us. Do you know how many rooms she has available? Anlon and Sive are already there so they’re okay, but we’ll need six rooms for the rest of us. Could you contact her and see?

Nora looked at Maisy and the girl pulled Nora’s phone out and handed it to her. I’ll call her right now. You answer the door.

I looked at her confused. My head tilted to the side, and I blinked twice while looking around the room. What?

The doorbell rang, and my gaze returned to Nora. How? I stood and moved to the door. Beth and Todd stood there arguing as Darlene was coming up the walkway, and I could see Magnus parking his car on the curb.

Welcome, come on in. I looked at Beth, but she was still talking to Todd, and it was getting out of hand.

Todd stood in the entry with his fists on his hips. I don’t want to be here, and I surely don’t want to go back to Tombstone, but...

Beth looked at him. But what? Now we’re here we’re going to stay and see what they have to say.

Todd looked around. His eyes glazed over, and he walked silently into the living room to sit on the couch. He didn’t smile or make eye contact, but at least the argument was over, for now.

Darlene and Magnus followed Todd and Beth into the living room. Darlene looked around the room. Very nice place you have here.

Surprised, my hand brushed my throat. Oh, this is my in-laws’ place. I sign the papers on my place tomorrow but won’t get keys until we get this settled down in Tombstone.

Darlene nodded. Ah, makes sense. She followed the rest into the living room.

I walked behind her and stood quietly as everyone got comfortable. Does anyone want something to drink? We have a small bar set up over there and I have some sweet tea in the kitchen.

Magnus walked over to the bar to fix himself a drink. Nora held up her glass, and I took it to the kitchen to refill.

No one else wanted anything and when I returned with the sweet tea, everyone was talking. Okay folks. Todd has a problem. I pointed to Todd. He seems to be enchanted by a small pin he picked up in Tombstone at Billy Clanton’s grave. I’ve gathered you all so we can plan how to deal with this and release him from the spell. We will travel to Tombstone to find out how and why this has happened and what we can do to help him. I’ll need all your support and special talents to work through this. Anlon and Sive, my Irish cousins, are already in Tombstone and will join us.

No one said anything. They all looked at Todd, but he didn’t seem to notice at all. Todd, please show everyone the pin.

Todd looked up at me and nodded slowly. He pulled the pin out of his shirt pocket and held his hand in his lap for a moment before opening the cloth around the pin.

The group leaned in toward him and he pulled back against the couch, holding his hand close to his chest. Todd, they just want to see the pin. They won’t try to touch it or take it from you. He shifted forward and lowered his hand again, opening it so the group could see the little pin with the turquoise dot in the center.

He held the pin for a minute then covered it again with