"Simple Case" is the story that introduced prosecutor Dana Hargrove to the world! The Dana Hargrove legal mysteries follow the dynamic prosecutor as she confronts personal and professional challenges at different stages of her legal career. In Thursday's List, set in 1988, rookie Dana is the junior member of a team investigating money laundering by a Colombian narcotics cartel. In Homicide Chart, set in 1994, Dana returns as an experienced prosecutor, investigating a murder that hits dangerously close to home. In Forsaken Oath, set in 2001, Dana is a high power bureau chief at the D.A.'s office, fighting a personal attack on her reputation and career. "Simple Case" is also available in my short story collection, Malocclusion, Tales of Misdemeanor.
A criminal mastermind makes a bold move against a wealthy client to put himself in a position to retire in comfort. He has no idea what he's up against when a young widow, desperate to make ends meet, sets her eyes on earning the bounty set on his head.
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Newly widowed housewife Melody Scott needs to earn some major cash, fast. When her bright and busy children learn that a priceless ruby bracelet has been stolen and a six-figure reward is being offered, they convince her to try to do what the police, museum security, and the best private investigators have failed to do. Working against them is a notorious thief who has met people from around the world, but who has never once encountered a woman like Melody Scott. When the sweet innocence of the Scott family clashes against criminal forces more dangerous than they ever imagined, Melody is all too aware that a mom's got to do what a mom's got to do to protect her family.
The Widow, Melody Scott is a 2021 Watty Award Winner!
Content Warning: This story does contain depictions of stalking behavior.