Her Perfume

“Despite the bright August sun, a chill wind swept through the ruined castle’s grounds and ruffled Julie’s chestnut hair.”

Rise Up

“My sister is dead. My weeping mother lies collapsed on the floor by the sweat-soaked bed, her fingers touching Zoe’s limp hand.”

That Damn Cat

“Detective Constable Maureen Kelly carefully placed the phone receiver in its cradle. She took a deep breath and exhaled slowly to stop her throat from tightening.”

Journey into the Dark

“Amira watched, her dark eyes wide and her body transfixed in terror, as two more youths­—sputtering adenoidal expletives—hunched into wooden crates. Then it was her brother Adnan’s turn.”