{"title":"All Ebook and Paperback Bundles","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"sapphire-beach-starter-bundle","title":"Sapphire Beach Starter Bundle (Prequel - Book 3), Ebooks","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003ePrequel through Book 3 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\"\u003eSapphire Beach Cozy Mystery Series\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePrefer paperbacks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ca data-mce-fragment=\"1\" title=\"Click here for paperbacks.\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eVacations and Victims\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e (Prequel)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eCondos and Corpses\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 1)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eSurf, Sand and Skeletons\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 2)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003ePiers, Pliers and Problems\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 3)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cimg height=\"17\" width=\"89\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Great cozy mystery. Wonderful characters and setting that makes you want to visit Florida.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\"These books had all I love in cozy mysteries: Well written characters, the beach, murders to solve, and friends and family helping the main characters to solve the murders.\"\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIf you love clean mysteries, this books are for you.\"I just loved these books!\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"I honestly had no idea of how the mystery would end or who did the murder.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"I absolutely recommend this series!\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis product is an EBOOK and is compatible with any modern digital app and device, including:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKindle or Kindle App for phones\/tablets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApple Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGoogle Play Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNook\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKobo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNative e-readers on Apple and Android products\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicrosoft Surface and Tablets of all kinds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiPads, iPods, iPhones\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAndroid phones and devices\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47385359450429,"sku":"SBB1","price":16.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/BookBrushImage-2024-8-27-20-3217.png?v=1724805306"},{"product_id":"sapphire-beach-ultimate-value-bundle","title":"Sapphire Beach Upgraded Value Bundle (Prequel - Book 6), Ebooks","description":"\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003ePrequel through Book 6 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\"\u003eSapphire Beach Cozy Mystery Series\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePrefer paperbacks?\u003ca rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" title=\"Click here for paperbacks.\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e Click here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eVacations and Victims\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e (Prequel)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondos and Corpses\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e(Book 1)\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSurf, Sand and Skeletons\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e(Book 2)\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePiers, Pliers and Problems\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e(Book 3)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eCandy Canes and Cadavers\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 4)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eSnowbirds and Suspects\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 5)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eBridesmaids and Bodies\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 6)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cimg height=\"17\" width=\"89\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Great cozy mystery. Wonderful characters and a setting that makes you want to visit Florida.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\"These books had all I love in cozy mysteries: Well-written characters, the beach, murders to solve, and friends and family helping the main characters to solve the murders.\"\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"If you love clean mysteries, these books are for you.\" \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"I honestly had no idea of how the mystery would end or who did the murder.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"I absolutely recommend this series!\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis product is an EBOOK and is compatible with any modern digital app and device, including:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKindle or Kindle App for phones\/tablets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApple Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGoogle Play Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNook\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKobo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNative e-readers on Apple and Android products\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicrosoft Surface and Tablets of all kinds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiPads, iPods, iPhones\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAndroid phones and devices\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47385513427261,"sku":"SBB2","price":27.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/BookBrushImage-2024-8-27-20-3339.png?v=1724805307"},{"product_id":"sapphire-beach-complete-series-prequel-book-12","title":"Complete Sapphire Beach Series (Prequel - Book 12), Ebooks","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eComplete \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSapphire Beach Cozy Mystery Series (Prequel through Book 12)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePrefer paperbacks?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" title=\"Click here for paperbacks.\" style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e Click here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" title=\"Click here for paperbacks.\" style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eVacations and Victims\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e (Prequel)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondos and Corpses\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e(Book 1)\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSurf, Sand and Skeletons\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e(Book 2)\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePiers, Pliers and Problems\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e(Book 3)\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCandy Canes and Cadavers\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e(Book 4)\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSnowbirds and Suspects\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e(Book 5)\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBridesmaids and Bodies\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e(Book 6)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eHurricanes and Homicide\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 7)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eKayaks and Killers\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 8)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eFriends, Foes and Felonies\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 9)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003ePassion and Poison\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 10)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eDaffodils and Death\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 11)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eMarriage and Mischief\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 12)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"17\" width=\"89\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Great cozy mystery. Wonderful characters and setting that makes you want to visit Florida.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem style=\"font-size: 0.875rem; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"These books had all I love in cozy mysteries: Well written characters, the beach, murders to solve, and friends and family helping the main characters to solve the murders.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIf you love clean mysteries, this books are for you.\u003c\/span\u003e\"I just loved these books!\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"I honestly had no idea of how the mystery would end or who did the murder.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"I absolutely recommend this series!\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis product is an EBOOK and is compatible with any modern digital app and device, including:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKindle or Kindle App for phones\/tablets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApple Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGoogle Play Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNook\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKobo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNative e-readers on Apple and Android products\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicrosoft Surface and Tablets of all kinds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiPads, iPods, iPhones\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAndroid phones and devices\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47390216323389,"sku":"SBB3","price":44.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/BookBrushImage-2024-8-27-20-3131.png?v=1724805306"},{"product_id":"sapphire-beach-paperback-bundle-books-1-4-paperbacks","title":"Sapphire Beach Paperback Bundle (Books 1-4), Paperbacks","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003eBooks 1-4 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\"\u003eSapphire Beach Cozy Mystery Series\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer Ebooks? \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003eIf you enjoy page-turner cozy mysteries, lovable characters, and palm trees swaying in the breeze, you’ll love the \u003cem\u003eSapphire Beach Cozy Mystery Series.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-unordered-list a-vertical\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eCondos and Corpses \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 1)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eSurf, Sand and Skeletons\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (Book 2)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003ePiers, Pliers and Problems\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (Book 3)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eCandy Canes and Cadavers\u003c\/i\u003e(Book 4)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; line-height: normal;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" width=\"89\" height=\"17\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\"This series is the best. Well-written with wonderful stories involving wonderful people. I do not have words to describe how murder mysteries could be sad but end positively in each instance.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\"I really enjoyed reading these books. The characters were great. I loved how the crimes were solved. I will recommend them to my friends.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\" data-hook=\"review-body\"\u003e\"This series of books will grab your attention and you will find yourself not wanting to put it down! Awesome!\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\" data-hook=\"review-body\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondos and Corpses: Chapter 1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Honey, are you sure you don’t want me to stay longer to help you clean out the condo?” Josephine Petretta asked, as her daughter yanked her suitcase from the trunk and dropped it onto the sidewalk outside the JetBlue check-in area at Southwest Florida International Airport.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m positive, Mom,” Connie said, giving her mother a grateful hug. “If we go through Auntie Concetta’s belongings together, we’ll get sidetracked at every photo and memory. I promise to save everything that has sentimental value.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJo reluctantly pulled up the handle of her own designer suitcase.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Connie’s got this, Mom,” Gianna insisted, pulling her own luggage from the trunk and gently embracing her older sister. “Let her do it. It would be too emotional for you, and besides, we have a business to get back to.” Jo and Gianna owned a home staging company that they had already been away from for too long.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie was grateful that her mom and sister had made the road trip down to Sapphire Beach, Florida, with her, especially since her father had to stay behind in Boston for work. Time passed more quickly during the twenty-four-hour drive with her mother and sister to talk to, even if she had to share the radio. And she needed her car to bring home any possessions the family might want to keep, especially her aunt’s extensive scrapbook collection. It was a treasure the family valued now more than ever.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe excursion had also provided a much-welcomed opportunity, now that the probate process was complete, to spend a few final days together in a place that meant so much. Jo’s sister, Concetta, who had been a retired actress before passing away six months prior after a brief battle with colon cancer, had lived in Sapphire Beach for the past fifteen years, and it held precious memories of countless family vacations and holidays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIt would also provide the perfect backdrop for Connie to give some thought to her future. She had treasured every minute of her time with\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eFeeding the Hungry\u003c\/i\u003e, the non-profit agency where she worked for the past eleven years. She had been an integral part of the small team since the beginning, when her boss and mentor, Sam O’Neil, founded the organization to bring aid to impoverished villages in developing countries. However, lately, since the organization had become more established, site visits were fewer and farther between and much of Connie’s time was spent organizing fundraising events, coordinating volunteers, and managing the donor database – worthwhile work for sure, just not the best use of Connie’s talents and interests.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIn addition, her best friend, Bethany, would soon be getting married and moving to Colorado with her new husband, where they had jobs lined up teaching skiing at one of the resorts. Beth had been itching for a change and with all the time they spent together, it was rubbing off on Connie.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs her mother and sister passed through the large glass doors leading into the terminal, Connie gave them a heartfelt wave. Then she hopped back into her silver Jetta and onto Route 75 South, toward the town of Sapphire Beach and her deceased aunt’s oceanfront condo – a condo that now belonged to Connie.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie, Jo, and Gianna had been Concetta’s only living relatives. She was divorced and never had children, but she always said she couldn’t have loved Connie and Gianna any more if they were her own. She left her condo, with its stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, to Connie, her namesake, while Jo and Gianna inherited her substantial investment portfolio. She also left a hefty sum to\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eFeeding the Hungry\u003c\/i\u003e. Jo liked to say that the only thing larger than Concetta’s personality was her heart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWithin twenty minutes of pulling off the highway, Connie was on Sapphire Beach Boulevard. She rolled down the windows and allowed the clean, salty air to fill her lungs. Sapphire Beach had always been her happy place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe temperature was in the high sixties, typical for an early January morning in southwest Florida, and the sun beat down through the sunroof. She would definitely miss the warm Florida weather when she went back to Boston. She smiled, remembering all the times her aunt had called her in the middle of a blizzard just to say that she was walking the beach or sitting outside having lunch. “What are you doing, sweetie?” Concetta would ask in a teasing tone, knowing full well that Connie was most likely shoveling her car out from under a mountain of snow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAbout two miles down Sapphire Beach Boulevard, Connie turned into the entrance of Palm Paradise, the high rise where her aunt had lived. Coconut palm trees flanked the long driveway leading to the white fourteen-story high rise where her aunt had found so much peace in the final years of her life. An array of flowers, including blue daze, bougainvillea, and graffiti rose decorated the front of the building, beckoning guests and residents into the luxurious lobby. It filled Connie with warmth to know that her aunt had found such an amazing place to call home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe pulled up to the entrance of the underground garage, punched in the access code, and pulled her car into #33. Each unit had its own underground parking space, with a storage unit attached, and a second outdoor space in the front parking lot, next to where visitors parked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eNot wanting to wait for the elevator, Connie climbed the stairs to the lobby and walked across the polished marble tile to the mailboxes. These days, all that was ever in her aunt’s box was junk mail, but she was glad it was empty. One less thing to deal with today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs she waited for the elevator, under a gold starburst chandelier, her mind went to the day’s tasks. Today she would clean the condo from top to bottom, so that she could get the realtor her mother had researched to come by as soon as possible. True to her Italian-American upbringing, Aunt Concetta’s place was usually so clean you could eat off the floors. However, since it had been empty for six months, it was in need of a thorough cleaning. Her aunt would roll over in her grave if Connie let anyone see her home looking less than pristine. So today she would focus on making the condo sparkle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie’s thoughts were interrupted when a friendly voice called from behind. “Sweetie, hold that elevator a second while I grab my mail.” It was Grace Jenkins, Concetta’s floormate and close friend, carrying a few bags from Publix. A strand of gray hair fell across her tan face.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGrace had moved to Sapphire Beach from Ohio after losing her husband in a car accident and had lived at Palm Paradise for almost as long as Concetta. With their zest for life and adventurous spirits, the two became fast friends, and Grace quickly became like another aunt to Connie and Gianna. She had been a godsend during Concetta’s illness, staying with her day and night right up until the end.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Here, let me help you with those. My hands are empty,” Connie said, taking a couple of the bags from Grace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thanks, honey.” Grace’s brown eyes teared up. “Truthfully, I didn’t really need groceries today, but I wanted to keep busy. Some days are just harder than others. This morning I picked up the phone to call Concetta before I remembered she was no longer there. Can you imagine, even six months later?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie’s throat tightened. “Grace, there’s no way we can thank you enough for being such an amazing friend to my aunt, especially in her final months.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe put her hand up. “Honey, there is no other place I would have been. Concetta wanted to spend her final months at home, and I was happy to do everything I could to help make that happen.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJust then, a gray-haired man with bright blue eyes burst into the main entrance of the lobby. His black button-down shirt with a palm tree print was tucked into light gray shorts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHe made a beeline for the small office just off the lobby, where Jessica, an employee of the condo’s management company, kept office hours. When she saw him coming, she stood up and met him just outside the doorway. “What is wrong with you people?” he asked loudly enough for Connie and Grace to hear. “The corridors should be vacuumed by now, and the trash receptacles in the garage are nearly overflowing. Please see to it that this is taken care of, pronto.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJessica’s shoulders stiffened, and she forced herself to look him in the eye. “The cleaning crew is due here momentarily, Mr. O’Rourke. But I’ll be sure to relay your complaints to the office. Again.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“See to it that you do. And kindly inform your supervisor that if he can’t handle this building, there are plenty of companies that can,” he said, heading toward Connie and Grace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie cast a sympathetic glance in the young woman’s direction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJessica shook her head slightly and returned to the office, while the man joined Connie and Grace in the elevator.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Making friends again, Hank?” Grace said, rolling her eyes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I don’t care about making friends,” he said. When he noticed Connie, he seemed to calm down a bit. “I take seriously my election to the condo association by the fine residents of Palm Paradise. The management company’s negligence is a reflection on me, you know, and I won’t stand for it.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGrace pressed seven for her and Connie, followed by ten, presumably for Hank, who was now blatantly checking Connie out. The top two buttons of his palm tree shirt were undone, revealing a thick gold chain. She turned her head so that he wouldn’t see her smirk. Or worse, misinterpret it for interest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Well, who do we have here?” he said with a wink, self-importance oozing from his expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eStaring daggers at him, Grace put a protective arm around Connie’s shoulder.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You better keep your dirty paws off her, Hank,” Grace barked. “This is Concetta’s niece, and she’s only here to get her aunt’s condo ready to sell.” Her voice had risen a couple of octaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHank didn’t take his hungry gaze off Connie. “Darling, I’m so sorry for your loss. Your aunt was a wonderful woman.” Grace relaxed her arm as the elevator door opened on the seventh floor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“That’s about the only thing we agree on,” she said, ushering Connie out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“If you need a break,” Hank said as the elevator door closed between them, “I’d be happy to take you on a cruise down the beach in my convertible.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs soon as the doors closed Connie had to laugh. “Is that guy for real? I feel like I need a shower after that conversation!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eBut Grace wasn’t laughing. She looked fit to be tied.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThey made their way down the hallway and stopped at Grace’s door.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Don’t worry about me, Grace. I can handle guys like that,” Connie said, depositing Grace’s grocery bags just inside her door.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m sure you can. You\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eare\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eConcetta’s niece after all. Just be on guard when Hank O’Rourke’s around. He’s relentless with my daughter Stephanie.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe thanked Grace for the warning and continued down the hallway to the next door. Taking a deep breath, Connie slowly unlocked the door to her aunt’s – now her – condo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49286275498301,"sku":"SBPAPERBACKS1-4","price":44.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/BookBrushImage-2024-8-26-15-4029.png?v=1724780784"},{"product_id":"ice-cream-shop-mysteries-starter-bundle-books-1-4-ebooks","title":"Ice Cream Shop Mysteries Starter Bundle (Books 1-4), Ebooks","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003eBooks 1 through 4 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\"\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer paperbacks? \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you love quaint New England seaside towns, loveable characters, captivating mysteries, and ice cream parlors, you’ll love the \u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eBanana Slit \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 1)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eI Scream (Book 2)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eSalted Caramel Crime\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 3)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eHot Fudge Homicide\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 4)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" width=\"89\" height=\"17\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“This is a great mystery with an amazing cast of characters and ice cream!”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Vickie M. Brown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“Good characters. Believable plot. Good, clean fun.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Amy Belle Schmidt\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“Angela Ryan's latest series is off to an amazing start! Once I started reading, I couldn't stop. Ice cream, a seacoast town, murder mystery and unanswered questions all make for a great series.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - MBF\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“Another cozy mystery series I’ve been hooked on!”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Victoria\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Love the characters and storyline. Very clean and a great cozy! Can't wait to read the next book.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Shannon S.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“This is a charming mystery that will keep you guessing until the end. It made me want to visit the quaint seaside resort and splurge on ice cream!”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Papa Trox\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“The search for answers had some twist and turns, leading to a surprise ending.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Kindle Customer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis product is an EBOOK and is compatible with any modern digital app and device, including:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKindle or Kindle App for phones\/tablets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApple Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGoogle Play Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNook\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKobo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNative e-readers on Apple and Android products\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicrosoft Surface and Tablets of all kinds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiPads, iPods, iPhones\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAndroid phones and devices \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer paperbacks? \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eBanana Slit: Chapter 1\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnnabel McBride swooned a little as the jaw-droppingly handsome Marcus Grady strode into her ice cream shop, with his black guitar bag swung over his broad shoulders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna wasn’t the type to become starstruck, but this man was a sight to behold. His light brown hair fell in layers above his ears, and his short, manicured beard gave him an irresistibly rugged look. Not to mention those smiling green eyes.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter a sharp elbow in the ribs from one of her employees, Velma Bryant, Anna managed to speak. “You must be Marcus. Welcome. It’s an honor to have you perform at my grand opening.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus flashed Anna a half smile. “It’s my pleasure, ma’am.” His voice was reminiscent of honey. For a moment, Anna forgot that she was about to open the doors to her ice cream shop, \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e, for the first time. She wasn’t sure if the fluttering in her stomach was nerves, or if it was the result of meeting Seagull Cove’s favorite son, who also happened to be a pop music star.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWho knew the ice cream business could be so interesting? If Anna had, perhaps she would have retired from her psychological counseling practice in Boston years ago. Of course, if she \u003ci\u003ehad\u003c\/i\u003e done it years ago, it would have been with her sister, Bella, by her side.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus winked at Anna. “I’m always happy to support a new business in my hometown. Besides, I’m on a break from touring, so I’m in town, anyway.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna had a feeling that, in addition to Marcus’s generosity, she also had Velma to thank for Marcus’s appearance. Velma had lived her whole life in Seagull Cove, and she couldn’t have been more well-connected if she were the town’s mayor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA man with stringy grey hair that fell just below his shoulders impatiently cleared his throat. Then he gave Anna a curt wave. “I’m Ted, Marcus’s sound guy. Where should I set up?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eTed was probably used to women losing their power of speech in front of Marcus. Not that Anna had any real interest in Marcus Grady, even if he had been anywhere near her league. Besides the fact that Marcus was in his late twenties and Anna was forty-four, she was not interested in a romantic relationship with \u003ci\u003eanyone\u003c\/i\u003e. All Anna wanted was to build her business and settle into her new life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWith her head down so that nobody would see her blushing like a teenager, Anna guided the two men through the large rectangular opening that led from the room that housed her ice cream counter to a larger dining room and gathering space. The far wall was lined with booths, and square wooden tables were scattered throughout the rest of the room. Anna imagined musicians, comedians, and open mic nights bringing the room alive. She smiled as she envisioned book clubs and other gatherings drawing the community into her shop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJust like Bella had dreamed of.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna accompanied Marcus and Ted to a vacant area against the back wall. “You can set up there.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eTed disappeared, presumably to fetch the sound equipment, while Marcus pulled out a mahogany guitar.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“That’s a beautiful instrument,” Anna said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus rested against a stool and strummed a few chords. “This hunk of wood is more than a musical instrument. She’s more like a faithful old friend.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Ted returned, a man who appeared to be in his early forties was with him. “I’m Donny Donaldson, Marcus’s manager. We spoke on the phone.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Yes,” Anna said, shaking Donny’s hand. “It’s nice to meet you in person. If there’s anything else you need, just let me know.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thanks. I think we’ve got it from here.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna glanced at the strawberry ice cream cone clock on the wall next to the counter. It was nearly time to open the doors. She wiped her palms on her black pants and took a deep breath. Anna had been anticipating this day ever since she made the decision to close her counseling practice and open \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e while visiting her cousin, Connie, in Florida.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Anna turned around to scoot behind the counter, Velma, along with two of her other employees, Jack and Olivia, stood watching her. Anna’s cheeks once again grew warm. “I’m sorry, I should have introduced you to Marcus. I guess I got a little tongue-tied.” Velma was her most experienced employee by far. She had worked for the former owners of the ice cream shop, which had previously been called \u003ci\u003eSeagull Cove\u003c\/i\u003e \u003ci\u003eCreamery. \u003c\/i\u003eJack and Olivia were finishing up their junior year at the local high school and needed summer work.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna and her team were as ready as they would ever be for the steady stream of customers that she prayed would come throughout the day.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIt had to if \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e was going to succeed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“No worries,” Jack said. “We see Marcus around all the time. It’s not a big deal for those of us who grew up in Seagull Cove.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWithin a half hour, the sound check was complete, and Anna was opening the doors to \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe kicked down the doorstop, allowing the cool, salty air to drift into the shop. The temperatures had climbed to the low seventies, which was unusually high for late-May. As far as Anna was concerned, it was nothing short of a miracle. Between it being Memorial Day weekend, the sunshine, and Marcus’s music - not to mention Anna’s amazing half-price banana splits - there should be no shortage of customers. She also hoped her free scoops for kids would draw families to her grand opening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna looked expectantly through the front window. Her storefront was mostly glass. It consisted of two large windows, each with one cafe-style table looking onto Main Street, with a glass door in the middle.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA young boy with red hair and freckles was Anna’s first customer. He sprinted toward the shop, sounding like a stampede of wild horses. He was a few yards ahead of a man, a woman, and a young girl, who Anna presumed were his parents and little sister. Anna hopped behind the counter to greet her first official customer. “Hello, there!”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe boy stood in front of the counter with his hands behind his back, looking up at Anna with a wide grin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Are you here for your free scoop?”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHe nodded his head vigorously. “Chocolate, please.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe boy’s family caught up to him while Anna fulfilled his request. The woman, who had the same red locks as the boy, ruffled his hair. “Frankie is here for the ice cream.” Then she lowered her voice. “As much as I love ice cream, I’m here more for Marcus.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna handed Frankie his chocolaty cone. Then Jack and Olivia took over, serving the rest of the family. Then the next customers. And the next. Most people took their sweet concoctions into the adjacent room, where Marcus was strumming his guitar and singing his way through his many hit songs.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna’s heart swelled as she watched her sister’s dream spring to life before her eyes. After so much planning and second-guessing herself, it had all been worth it. Anna hadn’t felt happier since before…well, before her life changed forever just four years, eight months, and three days ago. But today, nothing could steal her happiness.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna stood by the entrance greeting her customers, while Velma took their orders and rang them up, and Jack and Olivia scooped the ice cream and made more banana splits than they probably ever imagined they would make in one day.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter a couple of hours, the foot traffic slowed down. Anna made herself a cone with a scoop of salted caramel ice cream and brought it into the dining room to socialize with her customers. Salted caramel was definitely her favorite. Or was it mint chocolate chip? Or rocky road? Or cookie dough? Or butter pecan? Or rum raisin? Or… There were so many. She would have to increase her workouts if she was ever going to keep her waistline in check. But that was a problem for another day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhile Marcus masterfully entertained the crowd, Anna made the rounds, chatting with her patrons, who she hoped would become regular customers. Then she took a break and stood at the back of the room facing Marcus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA couple, who had been among the first few customers to arrive, sat at the table closest to Marcus. They looked to be in their late forties. The woman was wearing a Marcus Grady concert t-shirt and was staring at Marcus as if he were the only person in the world. Anna wondered if the man who was with her was her husband. He kept glancing at his watch and looking around the room, as if he were bored.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA few minutes later, Anna’s cousin, Gianna, along with her husband, Gary, and their five-year-old twins, arrived and sat with Anna’s parents, Judy and Al, and her brother, Albie. Albie’s sixteen-year-old daughter, Sophia, was unable to attend, because she had to work. Anna’s parents had recently retired to southern New Hampshire, which was about an hour away from Seagull Cove.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGianna gave Anna two thumbs up as she made her way to her family’s table. Anna went over to greet them, and after a few words of support from her family, Albie pointed to a table near Marcus. Anna couldn’t believe her eyes when she saw who was sitting there. It was Marcus’s girlfriend, Jasmine Hall, wearing an elegant floral lavender blouse over faded blue jeans. And Marcus was inviting her up to sing. What a treat to have two stars in her shop!\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe crowd encouraged Jasmine with ardent applause.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs Marcus sang his latest hit, “Jasmine’s Song,” he gazed into Jasmine’s eyes. A twinge of sadness crept over Anna as she remembered the only man whom she had ever felt that way about. She shook off her sorrow and reminded herself yet again that she was lucky to have ever loved anyone as much as she had loved Ian. Even if their time together had been short.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus finished the song to a standing ovation, then Jasmine joined him in a duet. Judging from the smiles on her customers’ faces, and her weary employees, the day couldn’t have gone any better.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Marcus’s performance neared its end, customers gradually filed out, and Ted packed up the sound equipment.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I can’t thank the two of you enough for helping to make this day a success,” Anna said to Marcus and Jasmine. “I can’t believe you wouldn’t let me pay you for your time. At least take some ice cream home.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’d better not if I want these jeans to fit,” Marcus said, patting his stomach. “And don’t mention it. I love performing for the people of my hometown. They always had faith in me, even when I was boy. But I am going to slip out as discreetly as possible, or I’ll be here all night.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Go ahead, honey,” Jasmine said. “I’ll stick around to sign a few autographs.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus managed to slip out the front door without attracting too much attention.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA few minutes later, Anna’s family stood to leave, so she went over to say a quick goodbye. “Bella would be so proud,” Judy said. She could tell by her mother’s quivering lip that she was fighting back tears. Al silently nodded his agreement. The only time Al McBride was ever quiet was when he was choked up, so Anna knew it had been an emotional day for him, as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJasmine remained at her table for more than an hour signing autographs and posing for selfies, while Donny stuck around to monitor the never-ending line. It was obvious why Marcus had wanted to make a break for it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna wiped down the front tables and the ice cream counter, saying a prayer that its round stools would always be full of happy customers enjoying her famous banana splits - at least they were famous in the McBride family.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eVelma was speaking to two gentlemen whom Anna had seen in the dining room earlier. They were now seated at the counter, and Jack and Olivia were finally taking a break and enjoying a well-deserved scoop.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eVelma motioned for Anna to join them.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49287002063165,"sku":"ICB1","price":17.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/ICEbookBundle1.png?v=1724720509"},{"product_id":"ice-cream-shop-mysteries-upgraded-value-bundle-books-1-6-ebooks","title":"Ice Cream Shop Mysteries Upgraded Value Bundle (Books 1-6), Ebooks","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003eBooks 1 through 6 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\"\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer paperbacks? \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eClick here. \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003eIf you love quaint New England seaside towns, loveable characters, captivating mysteries, and ice cream parlors, you’ll love the \u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eBanana Slit \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 1)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eI Scream (Book 2)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eSalted Caramel Crime\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 3)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eHot Fudge Homicide\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 4)\u003cbr\u003ePeppermint Stick-Up (Books 5)\u003cbr\u003eFrozen Pudding Fiascot (Book 6)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cimg height=\"17\" width=\"89\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“This is a great mystery with an amazing cast of characters and ice cream!”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Vickie M. Brown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“Good characters. Believable plot. Good, clean fun.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Amy Belle Schmidt\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“Angela Ryan's latest series is off to an amazing start! Once I started reading, I couldn't stop. Ice cream, a seacoast town, murder mystery and unanswered questions all make for a great series.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - MBF\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“Another cozy mystery series I’ve been hooked on!”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Victoria\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Love the characters and storyline. Very clean and a great cozy! Can't wait to read the next book.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Shannon S.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“This is a charming mystery that will keep you guessing until the end. It made me want to visit the quaint seaside resort and splurge on ice cream!”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Papa Trox\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“The search for answers had some twist and turns, leading to a surprise ending.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Kindle Customer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis product is an EBOOK and is compatible with any modern digital app and device, including:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKindle or Kindle App for phones\/tablets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApple Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGoogle Play Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNook\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKobo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNative e-readers on Apple and Android products\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicrosoft Surface and Tablets of all kinds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiPads, iPods, iPhones\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAndroid phones and devices\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer paperbacks? \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here. \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eBanana Slit: Chapter 1\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnnabel McBride swooned a little as the jaw-droppingly handsome Marcus Grady strode into her ice cream shop, with his black guitar bag swung over his broad shoulders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna wasn’t the type to become starstruck, but this man was a sight to behold. His light brown hair fell in layers above his ears, and his short, manicured beard gave him an irresistibly rugged look. Not to mention those smiling green eyes.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter a sharp elbow in the ribs from one of her employees, Velma Bryant, Anna managed to speak. “You must be Marcus. Welcome. It’s an honor to have you perform at my grand opening.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus flashed Anna a half smile. “It’s my pleasure, ma’am.” His voice was reminiscent of honey. For a moment, Anna forgot that she was about to open the doors to her ice cream shop, \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e, for the first time. She wasn’t sure if the fluttering in her stomach was nerves, or if it was the result of meeting Seagull Cove’s favorite son, who also happened to be a pop music star.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWho knew the ice cream business could be so interesting? If Anna had, perhaps she would have retired from her psychological counseling practice in Boston years ago. Of course, if she \u003ci\u003ehad\u003c\/i\u003e done it years ago, it would have been with her sister, Bella, by her side.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus winked at Anna. “I’m always happy to support a new business in my hometown. Besides, I’m on a break from touring, so I’m in town, anyway.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna had a feeling that, in addition to Marcus’s generosity, she also had Velma to thank for Marcus’s appearance. Velma had lived her whole life in Seagull Cove, and she couldn’t have been more well-connected if she were the town’s mayor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA man with stringy grey hair that fell just below his shoulders impatiently cleared his throat. Then he gave Anna a curt wave. “I’m Ted, Marcus’s sound guy. Where should I set up?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eTed was probably used to women losing their power of speech in front of Marcus. Not that Anna had any real interest in Marcus Grady, even if he had been anywhere near her league. Besides the fact that Marcus was in his late twenties and Anna was forty-four, she was not interested in a romantic relationship with \u003ci\u003eanyone\u003c\/i\u003e. All Anna wanted was to build her business and settle into her new life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWith her head down so that nobody would see her blushing like a teenager, Anna guided the two men through the large rectangular opening that led from the room that housed her ice cream counter to a larger dining room and gathering space. The far wall was lined with booths, and square wooden tables were scattered throughout the rest of the room. Anna imagined musicians, comedians, and open mic nights bringing the room alive. She smiled as she envisioned book clubs and other gatherings drawing the community into her shop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJust like Bella had dreamed of.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna accompanied Marcus and Ted to a vacant area against the back wall. “You can set up there.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eTed disappeared, presumably to fetch the sound equipment, while Marcus pulled out a mahogany guitar.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“That’s a beautiful instrument,” Anna said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus rested against a stool and strummed a few chords. “This hunk of wood is more than a musical instrument. She’s more like a faithful old friend.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Ted returned, a man who appeared to be in his early forties was with him. “I’m Donny Donaldson, Marcus’s manager. We spoke on the phone.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Yes,” Anna said, shaking Donny’s hand. “It’s nice to meet you in person. If there’s anything else you need, just let me know.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thanks. I think we’ve got it from here.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna glanced at the strawberry ice cream cone clock on the wall next to the counter. It was nearly time to open the doors. She wiped her palms on her black pants and took a deep breath. Anna had been anticipating this day ever since she made the decision to close her counseling practice and open \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e while visiting her cousin, Connie, in Florida.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Anna turned around to scoot behind the counter, Velma, along with two of her other employees, Jack and Olivia, stood watching her. Anna’s cheeks once again grew warm. “I’m sorry, I should have introduced you to Marcus. I guess I got a little tongue-tied.” Velma was her most experienced employee by far. She had worked for the former owners of the ice cream shop, which had previously been called \u003ci\u003eSeagull Cove\u003c\/i\u003e \u003ci\u003eCreamery. \u003c\/i\u003eJack and Olivia were finishing up their junior year at the local high school and needed summer work.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna and her team were as ready as they would ever be for the steady stream of customers that she prayed would come throughout the day.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIt had to if \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e was going to succeed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“No worries,” Jack said. “We see Marcus around all the time. It’s not a big deal for those of us who grew up in Seagull Cove.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWithin a half hour, the sound check was complete, and Anna was opening the doors to \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe kicked down the doorstop, allowing the cool, salty air to drift into the shop. The temperatures had climbed to the low seventies, which was unusually high for late-May. As far as Anna was concerned, it was nothing short of a miracle. Between it being Memorial Day weekend, the sunshine, and Marcus’s music - not to mention Anna’s amazing half-price banana splits - there should be no shortage of customers. She also hoped her free scoops for kids would draw families to her grand opening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna looked expectantly through the front window. Her storefront was mostly glass. It consisted of two large windows, each with one cafe-style table looking onto Main Street, with a glass door in the middle.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA young boy with red hair and freckles was Anna’s first customer. He sprinted toward the shop, sounding like a stampede of wild horses. He was a few yards ahead of a man, a woman, and a young girl, who Anna presumed were his parents and little sister. Anna hopped behind the counter to greet her first official customer. “Hello, there!”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe boy stood in front of the counter with his hands behind his back, looking up at Anna with a wide grin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Are you here for your free scoop?”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHe nodded his head vigorously. “Chocolate, please.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe boy’s family caught up to him while Anna fulfilled his request. The woman, who had the same red locks as the boy, ruffled his hair. “Frankie is here for the ice cream.” Then she lowered her voice. “As much as I love ice cream, I’m here more for Marcus.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna handed Frankie his chocolaty cone. Then Jack and Olivia took over, serving the rest of the family. Then the next customers. And the next. Most people took their sweet concoctions into the adjacent room, where Marcus was strumming his guitar and singing his way through his many hit songs.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna’s heart swelled as she watched her sister’s dream spring to life before her eyes. After so much planning and second-guessing herself, it had all been worth it. Anna hadn’t felt happier since before…well, before her life changed forever just four years, eight months, and three days ago. But today, nothing could steal her happiness.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna stood by the entrance greeting her customers, while Velma took their orders and rang them up, and Jack and Olivia scooped the ice cream and made more banana splits than they probably ever imagined they would make in one day.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter a couple of hours, the foot traffic slowed down. Anna made herself a cone with a scoop of salted caramel ice cream and brought it into the dining room to socialize with her customers. Salted caramel was definitely her favorite. Or was it mint chocolate chip? Or rocky road? Or cookie dough? Or butter pecan? Or rum raisin? Or… There were so many. She would have to increase her workouts if she was ever going to keep her waistline in check. But that was a problem for another day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhile Marcus masterfully entertained the crowd, Anna made the rounds, chatting with her patrons, who she hoped would become regular customers. Then she took a break and stood at the back of the room facing Marcus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA couple, who had been among the first few customers to arrive, sat at the table closest to Marcus. They looked to be in their late forties. The woman was wearing a Marcus Grady concert t-shirt and was staring at Marcus as if he were the only person in the world. Anna wondered if the man who was with her was her husband. He kept glancing at his watch and looking around the room, as if he were bored.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA few minutes later, Anna’s cousin, Gianna, along with her husband, Gary, and their five-year-old twins, arrived and sat with Anna’s parents, Judy and Al, and her brother, Albie. Albie’s sixteen-year-old daughter, Sophia, was unable to attend, because she had to work. Anna’s parents had recently retired to southern New Hampshire, which was about an hour away from Seagull Cove.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGianna gave Anna two thumbs up as she made her way to her family’s table. Anna went over to greet them, and after a few words of support from her family, Albie pointed to a table near Marcus. Anna couldn’t believe her eyes when she saw who was sitting there. It was Marcus’s girlfriend, Jasmine Hall, wearing an elegant floral lavender blouse over faded blue jeans. And Marcus was inviting her up to sing. What a treat to have two stars in her shop!\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe crowd encouraged Jasmine with ardent applause.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs Marcus sang his latest hit, “Jasmine’s Song,” he gazed into Jasmine’s eyes. A twinge of sadness crept over Anna as she remembered the only man whom she had ever felt that way about. She shook off her sorrow and reminded herself yet again that she was lucky to have ever loved anyone as much as she had loved Ian. Even if their time together had been short.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus finished the song to a standing ovation, then Jasmine joined him in a duet. Judging from the smiles on her customers’ faces, and her weary employees, the day couldn’t have gone any better.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Marcus’s performance neared its end, customers gradually filed out, and Ted packed up the sound equipment.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I can’t thank the two of you enough for helping to make this day a success,” Anna said to Marcus and Jasmine. “I can’t believe you wouldn’t let me pay you for your time. At least take some ice cream home.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’d better not if I want these jeans to fit,” Marcus said, patting his stomach. “And don’t mention it. I love performing for the people of my hometown. They always had faith in me, even when I was boy. But I am going to slip out as discreetly as possible, or I’ll be here all night.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Go ahead, honey,” Jasmine said. “I’ll stick around to sign a few autographs.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus managed to slip out the front door without attracting too much attention.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA few minutes later, Anna’s family stood to leave, so she went over to say a quick goodbye. “Bella would be so proud,” Judy said. She could tell by her mother’s quivering lip that she was fighting back tears. Al silently nodded his agreement. The only time Al McBride was ever quiet was when he was choked up, so Anna knew it had been an emotional day for him, as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJasmine remained at her table for more than an hour signing autographs and posing for selfies, while Donny stuck around to monitor the never-ending line. It was obvious why Marcus had wanted to make a break for it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna wiped down the front tables and the ice cream counter, saying a prayer that its round stools would always be full of happy customers enjoying her famous banana splits - at least they were famous in the McBride family.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eVelma was speaking to two gentlemen whom Anna had seen in the dining room earlier. They were now seated at the counter, and Jack and Olivia were finally taking a break and enjoying a well-deserved scoop.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eVelma motioned for Anna to join them.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49287070351677,"sku":"ICB2","price":24.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/ICEbookBundle2.png?v=1724723010"},{"product_id":"sapphire-beach-paperback-bundle-books-1-4-paperbacks-1","title":"Sapphire Beach Paperback Bundle (Books 5-8), Paperbacks","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBooks 5-8 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSapphire Beach Cozy Mystery Series\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePrefer Ebooks? \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/ebooks\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIf you enjoy page-turner cozy mysteries, lovable characters, and palm trees swaying in the breeze, you’ll love the \u003cem\u003eSapphire Beach Cozy Mystery Series.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"a-unordered-list a-vertical\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eSnowbirds and Suspects \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 5)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBridesmaids and Bodies\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (Book 6)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHurricanes and Homicide\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (Book 7)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eKayaks and Killers \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 8)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; line-height: normal;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" width=\"120\" height=\"23\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"This series keeps getting better with each new book. I love Connie and her willingness to help her friends with their problems. I liked learning more about Grace and Ruby and their families. Can’t wait to see what happens to Connie next time.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\"Another great one from Angela K. Ryan. Sally is estranged from some members of the family but could it be a new member no one knew about who killed her? Or did she discover a secret in her charity work? Lots of suspects and the snowbirds are back so everyone is busy at their businesses. A great read and a bit of a surprise at the end. You'll love it!\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\"I really enjoy reading this series of books. The characters are a fun and diverse group, and the storylines were good! I'm looking forward to reading the next book!!\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\" data-hook=\"review-body\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSnowbirds and Suspects: Chapter 1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA loud knock on the glass behind her nearly caused Connie Petretta to drop the necklace she was arranging in the display window of her jewelry shop,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eJust Jewelry.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eConnie literally laughed out loud when she turned to find Ruby Boyd, her friend and owner of the souvenir shop next door, enthusiastically waving and pointing to the front door of Connie’s shop with one of her crutches.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie nodded to indicate that she would meet her at the front door. She cautiously scooted out of the tight space where she was working and greeted Ruby, careful not to knock over any of the displays.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGrace, who was Connie’s friend, neighbor, and part-time employee, had been ringing up a customer and joined the two women.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“What’s all the excitement for?” Grace asked. Grace and Ruby had become fast friends in the ten months since Connie opened\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eJust Jewelry\u003c\/i\u003e. The two regularly took lunch breaks together to eat at the beach, which was just a couple of short blocks away.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eRuby hobbled over to the long oak table, where Connie often created jewelry or taught jewelry-making classes, and Connie and Grace followed. Ruby leaned her crutches against the table and took a seat. “I am so excited,” Ruby announced. “I have a niece!”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie and Grace exchanged a confused glance. As far as Connie knew, all of Ruby’s siblings were well beyond childbearing age.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eBut Ruby continued undeterred. “I’m going to meet her tonight for dinner.” She looked wide-eyed at Connie and Grace apparently awaiting their reaction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGrace put her arm around Ruby’s shoulders. “Slow down, my friend. You’re not making any sense. I know you have a niece and two nephews, but how is that exciting news?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eRuby laughed and took a deep breath. “Let me start over. For my birthday my brother, Glen, bought me one of those DNA kits – you know, so I could trace our family lineage. I sent a DNA sample in, and it turns out we have a niece that we didn’t know about. Her name is Amy. She is thirty years old and lives in Fort Myers. Apparently, she got some type of notification after I did the DNA test, so she reached out to me online a couple of weeks ago. We got to talking over email, which led to some extensive phone conversations. It turns out that Amy is the daughter of my brother, Kevin.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGrace appeared to be searching her memory. “You mean your brother who passed away?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eRuby bobbed her head up and down. “That’s right. Kevin had a fatal heart attack four years ago at the age of fifty-two. But isn’t it wonderful that he had a daughter we never knew about? She seems like an amazing young woman from what I could tell over the phone. She’s an elementary school teacher, and she is engaged to a man named Peter who sounds terrific.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“That’s amazing,” Connie said, warmly embracing Ruby. “I’m so happy for you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Did Kevin know that he had a daughter?” Grace asked.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“No. According to Amy, her mother never told him about her. I suppose I should be angry about that, but I’m just so excited to learn about Amy that there’s just no room in my heart for anger.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“If Amy is from Fort Myers, how did your brother know her mother? Isn’t your family from Wisconsin?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Judging from Amy’s age, they had to have met when my brother was in law school. During that time, he spent summers working as a waiter in Sapphire Beach and living at our family’s former vacation home, where I now live. My family has been coming to Sapphire Beach since I was a little girl. When my parents died ten years ago, they left the family’s vacation cottage to me, my brothers Kevin and Glen, and my sister Tammy. I decided to move here permanently for a fresh start, so I bought out my siblings and opened the souvenir shop. All of my remaining siblings ended up buying their own second homes in Sapphire Beach, and they all spend their winters here.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Wasn’t Kevin married?” Grace asked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Yes. I haven’t told his widow, Sally, about Amy yet. I figured I’d meet Amy in person first and get to know her before introducing her to the rest of the family. I’m not sure how Sally will feel about Amy. She and Kevin married later in life, and they don’t have any children. Amy was born long before they even met.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“That’s wild,” Connie said. “With technology today, stories like this are becoming increasingly more common. With more and more people signing up, ancestry databases are growing. More people are finding long lost family members or family they didn’t even know existed.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGrace smiled. “Well, if you’re happy, then I’m happy. Just remember, there are a lot of crazy people in the world, you know. Promise me you’ll meet this woman in a public place. If anything goes wrong, it’s not like you could run very far with that sprained ankle.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eRuby waved Grace off. “I’m telling you, there is nothing to worry about. Amy is a sweetheart, and I can’t wait to meet her in person. But if it makes you feel any better, we’re meeting at\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eGallagher’s Tropical Shack\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003efor dinner tonight, so we won’t be alone.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie was pleased to learn that, since\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eGallagher’s\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewas right across the street.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“In that case, I wish you a wonderful evening,” Grace said. “I can’t wait to hear all about it.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’ll say a prayer that it turns out the way you hope,” Connie said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Well, I’d better get going. I have a few things to do in my shop before meeting Amy tonight, and everything takes longer with these crutches.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“That’ll teach you not to climb on ladders when you’re alone,” Grace said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It could have happened to anybody,” Ruby said. Then she left\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eJust Jewelry\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewearing the same broad smile she came in with.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It’s wonderful to see Ruby so happy,” Grace said. “I’m just crossing my fingers that she isn’t disappointed.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie agreed. “I’d hate to see Ruby get hurt. She does so much to make others happy. When she learned I was selling Fair Trade jewelry, she immediately inquired about selling some products from my artisans in her own shop. She said that God blessed her in her life, so she always does what she can to bless others.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Ruby has a heart of gold. And I get the feeling that heart has been refined in fire. She doesn’t talk about her past a lot, so I can’t say for sure, but it’s just a feeling I get,” Grace said. “I hope she finds some happiness connecting with this young woman.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“So do I, but I’m happy they’re meeting in a public place,” Connie said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGrace nodded her agreement. “I’m sure there’s nothing to worry about, but better safe than sorry.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eFor the rest of the afternoon, Connie and Grace barely had a free moment. It was the third week in January, and the snowbirds were returning to Sapphire Beach in full force. This meant that a steady stream of customers flowed in and out of the downtown shops for much of the day. Grace was working a double shift to cover for Abby, Connie’s other employee and a student at nearby Florida Sands University, so that Abby could attend a concert. Grace’s tireless energy never ceased to amaze Connie. Not only did she work part-time for Connie, but she was also training for her next mini-triathlon, which was just a couple of months away. Connie hoped she had that much energy during\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eher\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eretirement years.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThere was a lull in customers around dinnertime, so Connie took advantage to take Ginger, her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, for a walk. When she returned, Detective Zachary Hughes, whom Connie was dating, was seated on the red sofa in the seating area of her shop.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I just got off work and was in the neighborhood picking up dinner, so I thought I’d come by to say hello.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie unhooked Ginger’s leash, and the dog trotted over to greet Zach.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You two visit. I’ve got this,” Grace said gesturing towards a customer who just walked in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie gave Grace an appreciative smile and joined Zach in the seating area.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHe stood to greet her and kissed her on the cheek. “I came downtown to grab a quick dinner, because I’m meeting Elyse tonight to look at some more houses.” Elyse, one of Connie’s closest friends in Sapphire Beach, was also a realtor and the wife of Detective Josh Miller.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie felt a warm smile spread across her face. “I’m glad you came. It’s always nice to see you.”\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Actually, I came for another reason as well,” Zach confessed. “I know it’s still three weeks away, but I was hoping you might be able to break away from the store for dinner on Valentine’s Day.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eFortunately, Abby worked on Friday nights, so Connie was hopeful that she would be able to take the time off. “I should be able to, but let me just double check with Abby before I commit.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Nonsense,” Grace chimed in. “If Abby would like to take Valentine’s Day off, I am happy to switch a shift with her and come in early. You two make plans.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGrace’s voice startled Connie, who hadn’t noticed that she was just a few yards away showing a woman around the Fair Trade section of the store.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I vote for the date,” the customer said, winking at Connie and Zach. “It’s a holiday for couples, and you two seem to enjoy each other’s company.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You know what they say,” Zach said. “The customer is always right.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie laughed. “Okay I guess it’s settled then.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eZach smiled broadly. “Perfect. I’ll make reservations somewhere special.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eZach’s phone pinged, and he pulled it from his pocket. “I’d better go. It’s Elyse reminding me that we’re meeting in her office in five minutes.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe downtown streets began to empty, and before Connie knew it, it was time to close shop.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJust as Connie and Grace were about to flip the ‘open’ sign to ‘closed,’ a joyful Ruby came through the door with a young woman who had brown, wavy hair. Connie assumed she was Amy. There was a tangible affection between the two women that indicated they had enjoyed getting acquainted over dinner.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I just\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003ehad\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eto introduce the two of you to my niece, Amy,” Ruby said, grinning from ear to ear.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Amy smiled, her dark eyes had the same sparkle as Ruby’s.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It’s wonderful to meet you,” Connie said, shaking Amy’s hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It’s nice to meet you, too.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAmy looked around\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eJust Jewelry\u003c\/i\u003e. “It’s beautiful in here,” she said. Her gaze settled on the Fair Trade section. “I love that you support artisans in developing countries. Ruby told me about your store over dinner.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Amy spent two years in the Peace Corps after college, so I was telling her about your work,” Ruby said.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I spent two years volunteering in Kenya with a faith-based organization,” Connie said. “That’s where I first learned to make jewelry. What country were you in?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I worked with children in Guatemala. It changed the trajectory of my life, leading me to get a degree in early childhood education. It was the best experience of my life.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I know exactly what you mean,” Connie said. “We’ll have to get together and swap stories.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Definitely,” Ruby said, placing a hand on Amy’s shoulder and squeezing. “Now that I’ve found Amy, I don’t plan on letting her out of my life. There will be plenty of occasions for that.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAmy’s joyful gaze met Ruby’s. “The feeling is mutual. I’ll definitely be visiting Sapphire Beach on a more regular basis.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eRuby looked at Amy and shook her head. “I still can’t get over how much you look like my brother.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAmy smiled and patted her pocketbook. “I have to agree. Thank you for the pictures of my father.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter Ruby and Amy left, the women closed the shop and walked together to the parking lot at the end of the street.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I guess we were concerned for no reason,” Grace said with a chuckle. “Amy seems like a lovely young woman.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I agree. I’m looking forward to getting to know her.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49290362093885,"sku":"SBPAPERBACKS5-8","price":44.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/BookBrushImage-2024-8-26-15-3928.png?v=1724780798"},{"product_id":"sapphire-beach-paperback-bundle-books-9-12-paperbacks","title":"Sapphire Beach Paperback Bundle (Books 9-12), Paperbacks","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003eBooks 9-12 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\"\u003eSapphire Beach Cozy Mystery Series\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer Ebooks? \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003eIf you enjoy page-turner cozy mysteries, lovable characters, and palm trees swaying in the breeze, you’ll love the \u003cem\u003eSapphire Beach Cozy Mystery Series.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-unordered-list a-vertical\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eFriends, Foes and Felonies \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 9)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003ePassion and Poison\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (Book 10)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eDaffodils and Death\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (Book 11)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eMarriage and Mischief \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 12)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; line-height: normal;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" width=\"89\" height=\"17\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"A wonderful book about old friends and new friends helping each other find out the answers. Looking forward to seeing Connie and Zach taking the next steps in their relationship.\" \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"The plot thickens! A murder mystery with lots of suspects that will keep you guessing till the end. Well-written with a wonderful variety of characters. Anyone that likes to read will love this book.\"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"It made you want to read entire book in one sitting. Unexpected twists and turns! Fast and fun read like you are right there with all the characters!\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\"Some series begin to get dull or feel old and repetitious after a few stories. Not this one! Each story is fresh and as exciting as the first one. All wonderful characters who feel like you know them. In this book there was an underdog I so wanted to be innocent of murder. The end is a bit if a surprise as the characters have woven a set of lies to keep the investigators off the trail of the truth. Absolutely love this series!\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\" data-hook=\"review-body\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFriends, Foes and Felonies: Chapter 1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie clutched Zach’s hand and practically pulled him through the parking garage, across the street, and into Concourse D at Southwest Florida International Airport.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThey climbed the staircase and made their way toward a wooden bench. Connie anxiously glanced at the corridor that Sam O’Neil, her longtime friend and mentor, would be required to pass through upon arriving. On one side was a large window and on the other was the security checkpoint for departing passengers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Let’s wait here,” Connie said, plopping herself down on the empty bench.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eZach pulled his phone from his pocket and glanced at the time. “We’re early. It will be at least ten more minutes before Sam arrives. His plane is probably just touching ground now.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie let out a sharp breath. “I know. I just wanted to be sure we were here to greet him the second he arrived. I can’t believe it’s been nearly two years since I last saw him. For eleven years, Sam and I worked side-by-side in the office. And that doesn’t even include the countless weekend fundraisers and business trips.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie’s eleven years working for Sam at\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eFeeding the Hungry\u003c\/i\u003e, a non-profit agency that served the poor in various developing countries, as well as her post-graduate term of volunteer service in Kenya, gave her the confidence and experience to open\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eJust Jewelry\u003c\/i\u003e, the shop where she sold Fair Trade jewelry and her own handmade pieces.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eZach rested his arm on Connie’s shoulders. “I’m looking forward to meeting someone who has been such an important part of your life.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie leaned against Zach. “It was actually my parents who introduced us. Did I ever tell you the story?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I don’t think so.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Sam was one of my father’s clients. My dad was his personal accountant. When Sam would go to my dad’s office every year to get his taxes done, my father would keep him posted on my adventures in Kenya. Shortly after I returned, Sam called my dad to tell him that he decided to close his lucrative consulting business to start a non-profit organization after participating in a humanitarian trip to South America with his parish. He wanted to hire my father to take care of the organization’s accounting needs. My dad thought Sam and I would enjoy meeting each other, so my parents invited Sam and his wife, Janet, to Sunday dinner one afternoon. By the end of the meal, Sam had offered me a job and I had accepted.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“And the rest is history?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Exactly. I’m looking forward to spending the next two weeks with him. Sam is a combination of an older brother and a second father to me. I have a feeling something meaningful will happen while he’s in Sapphire Beach.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“What do you mean by that?” Zach asked.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie shrugged her shoulders. “It’s hard to explain, exactly, but it’s always a blessing when Sam and I get together. We’re like kindred spirits, even though he is twenty years older than me. There’s usually some sort of strange parallel with what’s going on in each of our lives, ever since he opened\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eFeeding the Hungry.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003eAt that time, I was trying to figure out a path for my life that would somehow be a continuation of my work in Africa, and Sam was wondering how’d he grow a non-profit with no help.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eZach kissed the top of Connie’s head. “It sounds like you two have a special bond.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I couldn’t believe it when he told me he was coming for two weeks. As long as I’ve known Sam, he’s never taken that much time off from work. I also can’t wait to run by him the plans I’ve made for the expansion of my Fair Trade section. I’m sure he’ll have some great ideas.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie couldn’t sit still, so she walked to the airport monitors and checked on the latest flight information, then eagerly returned to Zach. “His flight landed ten minutes ago. It shouldn’t be long now.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA minute later, Connie jumped up and pointed toward the corridor. “There he is!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eBefore Zach could say a word, Connie darted toward a man with salt and pepper hair, a medium build, and kind blue eyes. She threw her arms around his neck. Until that moment, Connie hadn’t realized just how much she had missed her old friend and mentor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eZach caught up with Connie and Sam.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Let me guess,” Zach said. “This is Sam.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA smile was plastered on Connie’s face. “Nah, I just like to give perfect strangers a warm welcome to Florida,” she joked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eZach extended his hand. “Hi Sam, I’m Zach. I feel like I know you already from everything Connie has told me about you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSam pushed away Zach’s hand and pulled him into a warm hug. “And I, you. It’s a pleasure to finally meet the man who captured Connie’s heart.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eZach glanced at Connie and smiled broadly. Then he took the backpack Sam had been carrying.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thank you, Zach,” Sam said.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It’s the least I can do for a weary traveler. I’ll bet you’re exhausted.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie had been so excited to see Sam that she hadn’t noticed how tired he looked until Zach mentioned it. Dark circles had formed beneath his eyes, and his skin tone was paler than normal, even for a long New England winter. Sam had only taken a quick three-and-a-half-hour direct flight from Boston, so he shouldn’t have been nearly as tired as he appeared.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie placed her hand on Sam’s forearm. “Come to think of it, you do look weary. Let’s pick up your luggage and get you settled in at home so you can rest. Dinner is ready to be put in the oven.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter retrieving Sam’s suitcase at Carousel 10, they walked back to the parking garage and loaded Sam’s suitcase into Zach’s grey Jeep. Within forty minutes, they had pulled into the underground garage at Palm Paradise, which was the condo building where Connie lived. They ascended the elevator to the seventh floor and entered Connie’s condo.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie’s chestnut and white Cavalier King Charles Spaniel eagerly trotted over to greet them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“This must be Ginger,” Sam said, bending over to return the dog’s affection. He reached into the front pocket of his suitcase and pulled out a rawhide bone with a red ribbon tied around it. He took off the ribbon and gave the bone to the dog.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“A belated Christmas gift,” Sam said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eZach smiled. “I think you just made a friend for life. That is so thoughtful of you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie and Sam both chuckled at Zach’s comment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“What’s so funny?”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Sam is a generous guy, but the gift for Ginger was undoubtedly courtesy of his wife, Janet,” Connie clarified.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Don’t get me wrong,” Sam said, scratching the top of Ginger’s head. “I was looking forward to meeting this little girl. But I wouldn’t have thought of bringing her a Christmas gift.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I guess running a growing non-profit wouldn’t leave you much time for buying presents for your four-legged friends,” Zach said.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Sam stood and looked up, the sight of the Gulf of Mexico through the double sliding doors in Connie’s living room stopped him in his tracks. “Wow, kiddo, what a view!” He slowly walked over to the sliders, while Ginger sat in the corner and went to town on her new chew toy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I can see why you moved here. This view is exquisite.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“The view is the same from the guest room,” Connie said. “Why don’t you settle in and relax? I’ll put dinner in the oven.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSam tugged at his fleece sweatshirt. “I need to get out of these winter clothes and put on something more appropriate for Florida weather.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eZach showed Sam to Connie’s guest suite, where she had already pulled down the Murphy bed and put fresh sheets on it. All there was for Sam to do was unpack.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhile Sam settled in, Connie put some breaded chicken breasts into the oven and heated up some mashed potatoes, which she had also prepared earlier. Then she sauteed some string beans in olive oil, garlic, and spices while Zach set the table.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAbout fifteen minutes later, Sam emerged from his room wearing summer khakis and a short-sleeved blue and white button-down shirt. “This is much better,” he said with a satisfied smile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eBefore they sat down to eat, Connie made a quick phone call to check in with Abby, her employee who was covering the store so Connie could take the evening off. It was a late Friday afternoon in early January, which was one of the busiest months since the snowbirds and tourists were returning in full force, so Connie wanted to make sure Abby wasn’t too overwhelmed.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Everything is okay at the store,” Connie said when she hung up with Abby. “But I don’t like that Abby or Grace has to cover for me every time I want to take some time off. Although Abby insists she doesn’t mind, because she is still on winter break and could use the extra money, it still feels like an imposition.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Can you afford to hire another employee?” Sam asked, after they said the blessing together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie put two cutlets on her plate. “I probably should. I’ve thought about it, but I just bought the building where my store is housed and took on a mortgage that was higher than my rent had been, so expenses have gone up. I’m afraid of taking on too much overhead. Besides, I want to expand the Fair Trade section of the store, and as I take on more vendors, that means more upfront costs.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It sounds like you’re a busy lady,” Sam said. “Of course, that doesn’t surprise me. Old habits die hard.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Speaking of old habits, you must be slowing down a little bit,” Connie said. “I can’t believe you took off two entire weeks.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSam let out a sigh.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You don’t seem very excited about it,” Connie said. “Is everything okay?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSam shook his head, as if trying to shake off his thoughts. “Don’t mind me. This vacation is just what the doctor ordered. I’ve been looking forward to it for months. I’m just tired.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“From work?” Connie asked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Probably from the last thirteen years in general. The truth is, initially I was only planning to come for a week, but Janet insisted that I extend my vacation. I’ve been tired for a long time.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie’s eyes flew open. “Sam, you’re not sick, are you?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHe shook his head. “No, it’s nothing like that. I just had a physical, and my doctor said that everything looks great. I guess I’ve just been working too hard. Perhaps my age is catching up with me. Janet’s probably right. I just need some time off.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It sounds like you’re burning out,” Zach said. “We’ve all been there. An extended vacation could be just what you need.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thanks, Zach. I hope you’re right.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter dinner, Sam offered to take Ginger for her nightly walk while Connie and Zach cleaned up.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I think I’ll turn in early and do some reading,” Sam said when he returned and saw that the kitchen had been cleaned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSam retired to his room, and Connie accompanied Zach to the elevator.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Something is different about Sam,” Connie said after Zach pressed the elevator call button. “The Sam I know and love was a big ball of energy.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m sure he’ll be back to his old self after a few days of rest and relaxation – not to mention the warm Florida sunshine.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I hope you’re right. But I know Sam, and it looks to me like it will take more than a few days in the sun. I really wanted to hit the ground running and pick his brain about expanding my Fair Trade section while he was here, but now I’m afraid to bring up anything work-related. He looks so fragile.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Maybe focusing on\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eyour\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ework will help him to get his mind off his own. I’m sure he’d be happy to be your sounding board.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You could be right. I guess I’ll play it by ear.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen the elevator arrived, Zach kissed Connie and left.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49290405937469,"sku":"SBPAPERBACKS9-12","price":44.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/BookBrushImage-2024-8-26-15-3818.png?v=1724780798"},{"product_id":"sapphire-beach-paperback-bundle-books-1-6-paperbacks","title":"Sapphire Beach Paperback Bundle (Books 1-6), Paperbacks","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003eBooks 1-6 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\"\u003eSapphire Beach Cozy Mystery Series\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer Ebooks? \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003eIf you enjoy page-turner cozy mysteries, lovable characters, and palm trees swaying in the breeze, you’ll love the \u003cem\u003eSapphire Beach Cozy Mystery Series.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-unordered-list a-vertical\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eCondos and Corpses \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 1)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eSurf, Sand and Skeletons\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (Book 2)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003ePiers, Pliers and Problems\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (Book 3)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eCandy Canes and Cadavers \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 4)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSnowbirds and Suspects (Book 5)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBridesmaids and Bodies (Book 6)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" width=\"89\" height=\"17\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\"This series is the best. Well-written with wonderful stories involving wonderful people. I do not have words to describe how murder mysteries could be sad but end positively in each instance.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\"I really enjoyed reading these books. The characters were great. I loved how the crimes were solved. I will recommend them to my friends.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\" data-hook=\"review-body\"\u003e\"This series of books will grab your attention and you will find yourself not wanting to put it down! Awesome!\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\" data-hook=\"review-body\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondos and Corpses: Chapter 1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Honey, are you sure you don’t want me to stay longer to help you clean out the condo?” Josephine Petretta asked, as her daughter yanked her suitcase from the trunk and dropped it onto the sidewalk outside the JetBlue check-in area at Southwest Florida International Airport.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m positive, Mom,” Connie said, giving her mother a grateful hug. “If we go through Auntie Concetta’s belongings together, we’ll get sidetracked at every photo and memory. I promise to save everything that has sentimental value.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJo reluctantly pulled up the handle of her own designer suitcase.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Connie’s got this, Mom,” Gianna insisted, pulling her own luggage from the trunk and gently embracing her older sister. “Let her do it. It would be too emotional for you, and besides, we have a business to get back to.” Jo and Gianna owned a home staging company that they had already been away from for too long.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie was grateful that her mom and sister had made the road trip down to Sapphire Beach, Florida, with her, especially since her father had to stay behind in Boston for work. Time passed more quickly during the twenty-four-hour drive with her mother and sister to talk to, even if she had to share the radio. And she needed her car to bring home any possessions the family might want to keep, especially her aunt’s extensive scrapbook collection. It was a treasure the family valued now more than ever.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe excursion had also provided a much-welcomed opportunity, now that the probate process was complete, to spend a few final days together in a place that meant so much. Jo’s sister, Concetta, who had been a retired actress before passing away six months prior after a brief battle with colon cancer, had lived in Sapphire Beach for the past fifteen years, and it held precious memories of countless family vacations and holidays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIt would also provide the perfect backdrop for Connie to give some thought to her future. She had treasured every minute of her time with\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eFeeding the Hungry\u003c\/i\u003e, the non-profit agency where she worked for the past eleven years. She had been an integral part of the small team since the beginning, when her boss and mentor, Sam O’Neil, founded the organization to bring aid to impoverished villages in developing countries. However, lately, since the organization had become more established, site visits were fewer and farther between and much of Connie’s time was spent organizing fundraising events, coordinating volunteers, and managing the donor database – worthwhile work for sure, just not the best use of Connie’s talents and interests.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIn addition, her best friend, Bethany, would soon be getting married and moving to Colorado with her new husband, where they had jobs lined up teaching skiing at one of the resorts. Beth had been itching for a change and with all the time they spent together, it was rubbing off on Connie.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs her mother and sister passed through the large glass doors leading into the terminal, Connie gave them a heartfelt wave. Then she hopped back into her silver Jetta and onto Route 75 South, toward the town of Sapphire Beach and her deceased aunt’s oceanfront condo – a condo that now belonged to Connie.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie, Jo, and Gianna had been Concetta’s only living relatives. She was divorced and never had children, but she always said she couldn’t have loved Connie and Gianna any more if they were her own. She left her condo, with its stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, to Connie, her namesake, while Jo and Gianna inherited her substantial investment portfolio. She also left a hefty sum to\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eFeeding the Hungry\u003c\/i\u003e. Jo liked to say that the only thing larger than Concetta’s personality was her heart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWithin twenty minutes of pulling off the highway, Connie was on Sapphire Beach Boulevard. She rolled down the windows and allowed the clean, salty air to fill her lungs. Sapphire Beach had always been her happy place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe temperature was in the high sixties, typical for an early January morning in southwest Florida, and the sun beat down through the sunroof. She would definitely miss the warm Florida weather when she went back to Boston. She smiled, remembering all the times her aunt had called her in the middle of a blizzard just to say that she was walking the beach or sitting outside having lunch. “What are you doing, sweetie?” Concetta would ask in a teasing tone, knowing full well that Connie was most likely shoveling her car out from under a mountain of snow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAbout two miles down Sapphire Beach Boulevard, Connie turned into the entrance of Palm Paradise, the high rise where her aunt had lived. Coconut palm trees flanked the long driveway leading to the white fourteen-story high rise where her aunt had found so much peace in the final years of her life. An array of flowers, including blue daze, bougainvillea, and graffiti rose decorated the front of the building, beckoning guests and residents into the luxurious lobby. It filled Connie with warmth to know that her aunt had found such an amazing place to call home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe pulled up to the entrance of the underground garage, punched in the access code, and pulled her car into #33. Each unit had its own underground parking space, with a storage unit attached, and a second outdoor space in the front parking lot, next to where visitors parked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eNot wanting to wait for the elevator, Connie climbed the stairs to the lobby and walked across the polished marble tile to the mailboxes. These days, all that was ever in her aunt’s box was junk mail, but she was glad it was empty. One less thing to deal with today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs she waited for the elevator, under a gold starburst chandelier, her mind went to the day’s tasks. Today she would clean the condo from top to bottom, so that she could get the realtor her mother had researched to come by as soon as possible. True to her Italian-American upbringing, Aunt Concetta’s place was usually so clean you could eat off the floors. However, since it had been empty for six months, it was in need of a thorough cleaning. Her aunt would roll over in her grave if Connie let anyone see her home looking less than pristine. So today she would focus on making the condo sparkle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie’s thoughts were interrupted when a friendly voice called from behind. “Sweetie, hold that elevator a second while I grab my mail.” It was Grace Jenkins, Concetta’s floormate and close friend, carrying a few bags from Publix. A strand of gray hair fell across her tan face.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGrace had moved to Sapphire Beach from Ohio after losing her husband in a car accident and had lived at Palm Paradise for almost as long as Concetta. With their zest for life and adventurous spirits, the two became fast friends, and Grace quickly became like another aunt to Connie and Gianna. She had been a godsend during Concetta’s illness, staying with her day and night right up until the end.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Here, let me help you with those. My hands are empty,” Connie said, taking a couple of the bags from Grace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thanks, honey.” Grace’s brown eyes teared up. “Truthfully, I didn’t really need groceries today, but I wanted to keep busy. Some days are just harder than others. This morning I picked up the phone to call Concetta before I remembered she was no longer there. Can you imagine, even six months later?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie’s throat tightened. “Grace, there’s no way we can thank you enough for being such an amazing friend to my aunt, especially in her final months.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe put her hand up. “Honey, there is no other place I would have been. Concetta wanted to spend her final months at home, and I was happy to do everything I could to help make that happen.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJust then, a gray-haired man with bright blue eyes burst into the main entrance of the lobby. His black button-down shirt with a palm tree print was tucked into light gray shorts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHe made a beeline for the small office just off the lobby, where Jessica, an employee of the condo’s management company, kept office hours. When she saw him coming, she stood up and met him just outside the doorway. “What is wrong with you people?” he asked loudly enough for Connie and Grace to hear. “The corridors should be vacuumed by now, and the trash receptacles in the garage are nearly overflowing. Please see to it that this is taken care of, pronto.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJessica’s shoulders stiffened, and she forced herself to look him in the eye. “The cleaning crew is due here momentarily, Mr. O’Rourke. But I’ll be sure to relay your complaints to the office. Again.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“See to it that you do. And kindly inform your supervisor that if he can’t handle this building, there are plenty of companies that can,” he said, heading toward Connie and Grace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie cast a sympathetic glance in the young woman’s direction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJessica shook her head slightly and returned to the office, while the man joined Connie and Grace in the elevator.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Making friends again, Hank?” Grace said, rolling her eyes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I don’t care about making friends,” he said. When he noticed Connie, he seemed to calm down a bit. “I take seriously my election to the condo association by the fine residents of Palm Paradise. The management company’s negligence is a reflection on me, you know, and I won’t stand for it.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGrace pressed seven for her and Connie, followed by ten, presumably for Hank, who was now blatantly checking Connie out. The top two buttons of his palm tree shirt were undone, revealing a thick gold chain. She turned her head so that he wouldn’t see her smirk. Or worse, misinterpret it for interest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Well, who do we have here?” he said with a wink, self-importance oozing from his expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eStaring daggers at him, Grace put a protective arm around Connie’s shoulder.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You better keep your dirty paws off her, Hank,” Grace barked. “This is Concetta’s niece, and she’s only here to get her aunt’s condo ready to sell.” Her voice had risen a couple of octaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHank didn’t take his hungry gaze off Connie. “Darling, I’m so sorry for your loss. Your aunt was a wonderful woman.” Grace relaxed her arm as the elevator door opened on the seventh floor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“That’s about the only thing we agree on,” she said, ushering Connie out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“If you need a break,” Hank said as the elevator door closed between them, “I’d be happy to take you on a cruise down the beach in my convertible.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs soon as the doors closed Connie had to laugh. “Is that guy for real? I feel like I need a shower after that conversation!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eBut Grace wasn’t laughing. She looked fit to be tied.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThey made their way down the hallway and stopped at Grace’s door.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Don’t worry about me, Grace. I can handle guys like that,” Connie said, depositing Grace’s grocery bags just inside her door.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m sure you can. You\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eare\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eConcetta’s niece after all. Just be on guard when Hank O’Rourke’s around. He’s relentless with my daughter Stephanie.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe thanked Grace for the warning and continued down the hallway to the next door. Taking a deep breath, Connie slowly unlocked the door to her aunt’s – now her – condo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49290423370045,"sku":"SBPAPERBACKS1-6","price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/BookBrushImage-2024-8-26-15-3644.png?v=1724780798"},{"product_id":"sapphire-beach-paperback-bundle-books-7-12-paperbacks","title":"Sapphire Beach Paperback Bundle (Books 7-12), Paperbacks","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBooks 7-12 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSapphire Beach Cozy Mystery Series\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePrefer Ebooks? \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIf you enjoy page-turner cozy mysteries, lovable characters, and palm trees swaying in the breeze, you’ll love the \u003cem\u003eSapphire Beach Cozy Mystery Series.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"a-unordered-list a-vertical\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eHurricanes and Homicide \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 7)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eKayaks and Killers\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (Book 8)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFriends, Foes and Felonies\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (Book 9)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003ePassion and Poison \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 10)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDaffodils and Death (Book 11)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMarriage and Mischief (Book 12)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"17\" width=\"89\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"Such an amazing book! The storm wasn’t the only thing keeping me on the edge of my seat. I couldn’t put it down till the end. I very surprised to find out who the killer turned out to be. This book was wonderful from beginning to end.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"A wonderful book about old friends and new friends helping each other find out the answers. Looking forward to seeing Connie and Zach taking the next steps in their relationship.\" \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"The plot thickens! A murder mystery with lots of suspects that will keep you guessing till the end. Well-written with a wonderful variety of characters. Anyone that likes to read will love this book.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-hook=\"review-body\" class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHurricanes and Homicide: Chapter 1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e“Finally!” Connie Petretta said to her friend and employee, Grace Jenkins, as she placed her hammer back in the toolbox. “All of the windows are boarded up, and Just Jewelry is as ready for Hurricane Emery as it ever will be.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAt least Connie hoped so. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMeteorologists had predicted that Emery would be a Category 3 hurricane and that the winds would start to pick up later that afternoon. The Gulf-front town in southwest Florida Connie had called home for the past year-and-a-half would be in the thick of the storm in a few days. But judging from the steadily increasing winds and rain, Hurricane Emery was arriving more quickly than anticipated. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAugust was going out with a boom.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrace peeked her head out the front door. “The winds are getting stronger, and county officials just issued a shelter-in-place order. We need to get home right away and hunker down.” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie and Grace lived next door to one another in their condominium building, which was called Palm Paradise. They had been neighbors since Connie’s Aunt Concetta had passed away, leaving Connie her Gulf-front condo.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGinger, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel she unofficially inherited along with her aunt’s condo, looked up at Connie with her trusting brown eyes. She was patiently watching her master from her doggie bed at the back of the store. “I agree. Ginger looks like she wants to get home, too.” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Before we head out, let’s check on Ruby,” Grace said, pulling on her yellow rain slicker and slipping the hood over her head.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie did the same with her own powder blue slicker, then she picked up Ginger and protectively tucked her beneath her jacket while she followed Grace next door to Ruby’s souvenir shop. Ruby and one of her employees, Daisy, were about to leave. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“We’ve battened down the hatches,” Ruby said when she saw Connie and Grace. “It’s time to get out of here. I don’t like the looks of this storm.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo sooner did the words come from Ruby’s lips than a peal of thunder sounded, and Ginger trembled in Connie’s arms. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“We just wanted to make sure you didn’t need any help before we left,” Grace said, “but it looks like you have everything under control.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Yes, Mickey called this morning to check on us, but I told him Daisy and I could handle it. I think he’s afraid of losing his properties to the storm before he has a chance to unload them.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMickey Miranda owned the buildings that housed both Connie’s and Ruby’s shops, as well as several other commercial properties in the downtown area. He and his wife, Susan, had been up north visiting Mickey’s brother for the summer, and had just returned to Sapphire Beach the day before. Much to the chagrin of Connie and Ruby, Mickey was planning to sell the properties as soon as he got back in town. The women were concerned that the new owners would require them to move when their leases expired in January and neither wanted that. They loved being neighbors and enjoyed a prime location, which was just a couple of blocks from the beach. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBesides, before opening her jewelry shop, Connie had spent a good chunk of her savings renovating the store. The last thing she wanted was to start over in another location. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBut there was no time to dwell on that. They needed to get safely home and out of the hurricane.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“We’re anxious to get out of here, too,” Grace said. “We’ll see you on the flip side.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAfter Ruby locked up her shop, she and Daisy hopped into their cars and drove away. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Grace, get into the car,” Connie said, unlocking her silver Jetta with her fob key. “I’ll lock up the shop really quickly, so we can get out of here.” Since they lived right next door to each other and they hadn’t planned to stay long at the store, Connie and Grace took one car that morning. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrace slid into the passenger seat, and Connie locked the door to the store. She stroked Ginger’s silky back. “Don’t worry, sweet girl. I’ll have you home in no time.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSince Connie had parked her car directly in front of Just Jewelry, she put Ginger down on the ground. Then she said a quick prayer that her beloved shop would remain undamaged by the impending hurricane. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrace pulled her hood over her head and exited the front seat to open the back door for Ginger.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie laughed at the sight of Grace, her yellow hood pulled tightly around her face, dripping with water.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrace gave Connie a thumbs up, and Connie nudged Ginger in the direction of the car.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJust as Ginger was about to jump into the backseat, another crash of thunder sounded in the distance. A terrified Ginger bolted away from the car and down the alley that led to the back of Connie’s store. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Oh no!” Connie said to Grace. “The poor dog is terrified. I’ll be right back.” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eShe was about to sprint after Ginger when she heard a voice yelling from across the street.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Connie, stop!” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eShe turned around and through the torrential rains, saw Gallagher waving his arms and running towards her. “You need to get home. They’re telling everyone to get off the roads right away.” Gallagher was the owner of Gallagher’s Tropical Shack, the thatched-roof restaurant across the street from Just Jewelry. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Not without Ginger,” Connie yelled.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“You get Grace home. I’ll find Ginger and drop her off at Palm Paradise on my way home.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie started to protest, but Gallagher had already disappeared down the alley.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“I’ll wait for you at the front entrance,” Connie yelled into the air, not sure if he would even hear her over the wind and rain. She was tempted to run after him, but Gallagher was a man of his word, and Connie really needed to get Grace home. If anything ever happened to Grace because Connie had kept her out in the storm too long, she would never forgive herself. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDrenched to the bone, Connie got into the driver’s seat. She glanced one more time at Just Jewelry before starting the car. “Let’s hope our little shop is still standing the next time we see it.” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHurricane Emery was the first major storm since Connie moved to Sapphire Beach. She was confident that her home would remain safe, since Palm Paradise had been built after Hurricane Andrew. In 1992, Hurricane Andrew, which was a Category 5 storm when it hit landfall, had destroyed about sixty-three thousand homes and damaged another hundred thousand. His 175 miles-per-hour winds had flattened entire neighborhoods, leading to stringent building codes, so Connie knew her home was solid. But she wasn’t as confident about her shop. Even a Category 3 could do some serious damage to older structures. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie and Grace had spent yesterday bringing all of Connie’s inventory home and storing it away, preparing for a worst-case scenario. After all the hard work Connie and her Fair Trade artisans put into creating their jewelry pieces, she wasn’t taking any chances. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe one-mile stretch that separated Connie’s shop from her home was already treacherous. Visibility was poor and many leaves and small branches littered Sapphire Beach Boulevard. About halfway home, they passed a car accident and could hear an ambulance approaching in the distance. Connie drove in silence, not daring to take her attention off the road. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Look, your knuckles are white from gripping the wheel so tightly,” Grace said as Connie punched in the pass code to gain entrance into the underground garage. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRelieved to be home, Connie pulled into her designated parking space, then they climbed the stairs into the elegant lobby, waving at Gertrude, who was anxiously watching her neighbors return to safety. Gertrude was an octogenarian who lived in Palm Paradise and with whom Connie had become friends. She was also the great-aunt of Elyse Miller, one of Connie’s best friends in Sapphire Beach.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie and Grace waited by the front entrance and watched through the glass double doors for Gallagher and Ginger. Jessica, the management company employee who kept office hours on the premises, also stood watching the parking lot with a young boy. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“You two made it back just in the nick of time,” Jessica said. “The authorities are requesting that everyone get off the road as quickly as possible. It looks like Hurricane Emery is coming sooner than anticipated.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrace explained how Ginger ran off and that Gallagher would be arriving any minute to drop her off. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“He’d better hurry,” the boy said. “Mom and I are stuck here until the storm is over.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“You must be the famous Robbie,” Connie said. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you. I’ve heard so much about you from your mom. I’m Connie, and this is Grace.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Hi,” Robbie said. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“This is Concetta’s niece,” Jessica explained. “Concetta is the kind woman who used to bake us those Italian cookies all the time.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Do you bake cookies, too?” Robbie asked.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Not nearly as well as my aunt used to. But since it looks like we’re going to be stuck indoors for the next few days, how about if I promise to give it a shot? Maybe you can help, since you’re staying here, too.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Deal,” Robbie said.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAfter what felt like an eternity, Gallagher finally arrived in his beat-up old Honda. He pulled up a few yards from the door and ran toward Connie holding a trembling and wet Ginger in his arms.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Your delivery, Ma’am,” Gallagher said, handing her to Connie. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGinger licked Connie’s face and wagged her tail, clearly excited to be reunited with her owner. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie gave her a squeeze, then hugged Gallagher. “Thank goodness. I would never have forgiven myself if anything happened to you or Ginger.” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie placed the dog on the floor, and Robbie bent down to scratch Ginger’s wet head. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAs Robbie greeted Ginger, a man with salt-and-pepper hair who appeared to be in his late fifties came running from the outdoor parking lot, his arms loaded with soggy brown paper grocery bags. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEveryone stepped back so he could take shelter. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe three women couldn’t help but notice that his bags were filled with ice cream, chips, and cookies.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe man chuckled. “I figured we might be trapped inside for a while, and I don’t like to be caught without snacks.” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“A man after my own heart,” Grace said. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Tony, why on earth didn’t you park in the underground garage?” Jessica asked.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEach unit had an assigned underground parking spot, as well as one in the outdoor parking lot.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTony shrugged his wet shoulders. “I just wanted to get out of the elements as quickly as possible, but you’re right. That’s what I should have done. Oh well. I’m not moving it now.” Then he disappeared into the stairwell on the other side of the lobby.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“You’d better get home too, Gallagher,” Jessica said.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“I know. The roads are getting worse by the minute. But before I leave, I want to check something out on the side of the building. I thought I heard a moaning sound coming from the shrubs.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“That’s strange,” Connie said. “Are you sure?” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Between the gusting wind and the pouring rain, I’m not sure of anything, but I need to at least check. Someone could have been hit with a flying object with this wind.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“I’ll come with you,” Connie said.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Be careful,” Jessica warned.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie waved back at Jessica to indicate that they would.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThey walked around the cement pathway leading from the front entrance to the back of Palm Paradise, where the swimming pool was located. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhen they arrived about halfway down the side of the building, Gallagher stopped short and pointed at the bushes. A pair of black sneakers poked out from the shrubs and pointed upward. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Somebody must have lost their shoes,” Gallagher said.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSomething didn’t seem right to Connie. “With all this wind, how are those shoes remaining upright? Wait a minute…”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie bent down and squeezed the shoes.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThey were attached to a person.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49290447782205,"sku":"SBPAPERBACKS7-12","price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/BookBrushImage-2024-8-26-15-3544.png?v=1724780798"},{"product_id":"sapphire-beach-paperback-bundle-books-1-12-paperbacks","title":"Sapphire Beach Paperback Bundle (Books 1-12), Paperbacks","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe complete \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSapphire Beach Cozy Mystery Series (Books 1-12)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePrefer Ebooks? \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIf you enjoy page-turner cozy mysteries, lovable characters, and palm trees swaying in the breeze, you’ll love the \u003cem\u003eSapphire Beach Cozy Mystery Series.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"a-unordered-list a-vertical\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eCondos and Corpses \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 1)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSurf, Sand and Skeletons\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (Book 2)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePiers, Pliers and Problems\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (Book 3)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eCandy Canes and Cadavers \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 4)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSnowbirds and Suspects (Book 5)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBridesmaids and Bodies (Book 6)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHurricanes and Homicide (Book 7)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eKayaks and Killers\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 8)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eFriends, Foes and Felonies\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 9)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003ePassion and Poison \u003c\/em\u003e(Book 10)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eDaffodils and Death\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 11)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eMarriage and Mischief\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 12)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"17\" width=\"89\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"This series is the best. Well-written with wonderful stories involving wonderful people. I do not have words to describe how murder mysteries could be sad but end positively in each instance.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\"I really enjoyed reading these books. The characters were great. I loved how the crimes were solved. I will recommend them to my friends.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-hook=\"review-body\" class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\"\u003e\"This series of books will grab your attention and you will find yourself not wanting to put it down! Awesome!\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-hook=\"review-body\" class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondos and Corpses: Chapter 1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Honey, are you sure you don’t want me to stay longer to help you clean out the condo?” Josephine Petretta asked, as her daughter yanked her suitcase from the trunk and dropped it onto the sidewalk outside the JetBlue check-in area at Southwest Florida International Airport.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m positive, Mom,” Connie said, giving her mother a grateful hug. “If we go through Auntie Concetta’s belongings together, we’ll get sidetracked at every photo and memory. I promise to save everything that has sentimental value.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJo reluctantly pulled up the handle of her own designer suitcase.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Connie’s got this, Mom,” Gianna insisted, pulling her own luggage from the trunk and gently embracing her older sister. “Let her do it. It would be too emotional for you, and besides, we have a business to get back to.” Jo and Gianna owned a home staging company that they had already been away from for too long.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie was grateful that her mom and sister had made the road trip down to Sapphire Beach, Florida, with her, especially since her father had to stay behind in Boston for work. Time passed more quickly during the twenty-four-hour drive with her mother and sister to talk to, even if she had to share the radio. And she needed her car to bring home any possessions the family might want to keep, especially her aunt’s extensive scrapbook collection. It was a treasure the family valued now more than ever.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe excursion had also provided a much-welcomed opportunity, now that the probate process was complete, to spend a few final days together in a place that meant so much. Jo’s sister, Concetta, who had been a retired actress before passing away six months prior after a brief battle with colon cancer, had lived in Sapphire Beach for the past fifteen years, and it held precious memories of countless family vacations and holidays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIt would also provide the perfect backdrop for Connie to give some thought to her future. She had treasured every minute of her time with\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eFeeding the Hungry\u003c\/i\u003e, the non-profit agency where she worked for the past eleven years. She had been an integral part of the small team since the beginning, when her boss and mentor, Sam O’Neil, founded the organization to bring aid to impoverished villages in developing countries. However, lately, since the organization had become more established, site visits were fewer and farther between and much of Connie’s time was spent organizing fundraising events, coordinating volunteers, and managing the donor database – worthwhile work for sure, just not the best use of Connie’s talents and interests.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIn addition, her best friend, Bethany, would soon be getting married and moving to Colorado with her new husband, where they had jobs lined up teaching skiing at one of the resorts. Beth had been itching for a change and with all the time they spent together, it was rubbing off on Connie.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs her mother and sister passed through the large glass doors leading into the terminal, Connie gave them a heartfelt wave. Then she hopped back into her silver Jetta and onto Route 75 South, toward the town of Sapphire Beach and her deceased aunt’s oceanfront condo – a condo that now belonged to Connie.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie, Jo, and Gianna had been Concetta’s only living relatives. She was divorced and never had children, but she always said she couldn’t have loved Connie and Gianna any more if they were her own. She left her condo, with its stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, to Connie, her namesake, while Jo and Gianna inherited her substantial investment portfolio. She also left a hefty sum to\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eFeeding the Hungry\u003c\/i\u003e. Jo liked to say that the only thing larger than Concetta’s personality was her heart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWithin twenty minutes of pulling off the highway, Connie was on Sapphire Beach Boulevard. She rolled down the windows and allowed the clean, salty air to fill her lungs. Sapphire Beach had always been her happy place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe temperature was in the high sixties, typical for an early January morning in southwest Florida, and the sun beat down through the sunroof. She would definitely miss the warm Florida weather when she went back to Boston. She smiled, remembering all the times her aunt had called her in the middle of a blizzard just to say that she was walking the beach or sitting outside having lunch. “What are you doing, sweetie?” Concetta would ask in a teasing tone, knowing full well that Connie was most likely shoveling her car out from under a mountain of snow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAbout two miles down Sapphire Beach Boulevard, Connie turned into the entrance of Palm Paradise, the high rise where her aunt had lived. Coconut palm trees flanked the long driveway leading to the white fourteen-story high rise where her aunt had found so much peace in the final years of her life. An array of flowers, including blue daze, bougainvillea, and graffiti rose decorated the front of the building, beckoning guests and residents into the luxurious lobby. It filled Connie with warmth to know that her aunt had found such an amazing place to call home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe pulled up to the entrance of the underground garage, punched in the access code, and pulled her car into #33. Each unit had its own underground parking space, with a storage unit attached, and a second outdoor space in the front parking lot, next to where visitors parked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eNot wanting to wait for the elevator, Connie climbed the stairs to the lobby and walked across the polished marble tile to the mailboxes. These days, all that was ever in her aunt’s box was junk mail, but she was glad it was empty. One less thing to deal with today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs she waited for the elevator, under a gold starburst chandelier, her mind went to the day’s tasks. Today she would clean the condo from top to bottom, so that she could get the realtor her mother had researched to come by as soon as possible. True to her Italian-American upbringing, Aunt Concetta’s place was usually so clean you could eat off the floors. However, since it had been empty for six months, it was in need of a thorough cleaning. Her aunt would roll over in her grave if Connie let anyone see her home looking less than pristine. So today she would focus on making the condo sparkle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie’s thoughts were interrupted when a friendly voice called from behind. “Sweetie, hold that elevator a second while I grab my mail.” It was Grace Jenkins, Concetta’s floormate and close friend, carrying a few bags from Publix. A strand of gray hair fell across her tan face.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGrace had moved to Sapphire Beach from Ohio after losing her husband in a car accident and had lived at Palm Paradise for almost as long as Concetta. With their zest for life and adventurous spirits, the two became fast friends, and Grace quickly became like another aunt to Connie and Gianna. She had been a godsend during Concetta’s illness, staying with her day and night right up until the end.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Here, let me help you with those. My hands are empty,” Connie said, taking a couple of the bags from Grace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thanks, honey.” Grace’s brown eyes teared up. “Truthfully, I didn’t really need groceries today, but I wanted to keep busy. Some days are just harder than others. This morning I picked up the phone to call Concetta before I remembered she was no longer there. Can you imagine, even six months later?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie’s throat tightened. “Grace, there’s no way we can thank you enough for being such an amazing friend to my aunt, especially in her final months.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe put her hand up. “Honey, there is no other place I would have been. Concetta wanted to spend her final months at home, and I was happy to do everything I could to help make that happen.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJust then, a gray-haired man with bright blue eyes burst into the main entrance of the lobby. His black button-down shirt with a palm tree print was tucked into light gray shorts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHe made a beeline for the small office just off the lobby, where Jessica, an employee of the condo’s management company, kept office hours. When she saw him coming, she stood up and met him just outside the doorway. “What is wrong with you people?” he asked loudly enough for Connie and Grace to hear. “The corridors should be vacuumed by now, and the trash receptacles in the garage are nearly overflowing. Please see to it that this is taken care of, pronto.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJessica’s shoulders stiffened, and she forced herself to look him in the eye. “The cleaning crew is due here momentarily, Mr. O’Rourke. But I’ll be sure to relay your complaints to the office. Again.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“See to it that you do. And kindly inform your supervisor that if he can’t handle this building, there are plenty of companies that can,” he said, heading toward Connie and Grace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie cast a sympathetic glance in the young woman’s direction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJessica shook her head slightly and returned to the office, while the man joined Connie and Grace in the elevator.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Making friends again, Hank?” Grace said, rolling her eyes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I don’t care about making friends,” he said. When he noticed Connie, he seemed to calm down a bit. “I take seriously my election to the condo association by the fine residents of Palm Paradise. The management company’s negligence is a reflection on me, you know, and I won’t stand for it.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGrace pressed seven for her and Connie, followed by ten, presumably for Hank, who was now blatantly checking Connie out. The top two buttons of his palm tree shirt were undone, revealing a thick gold chain. She turned her head so that he wouldn’t see her smirk. Or worse, misinterpret it for interest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Well, who do we have here?” he said with a wink, self-importance oozing from his expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eStaring daggers at him, Grace put a protective arm around Connie’s shoulder.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You better keep your dirty paws off her, Hank,” Grace barked. “This is Concetta’s niece, and she’s only here to get her aunt’s condo ready to sell.” Her voice had risen a couple of octaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHank didn’t take his hungry gaze off Connie. “Darling, I’m so sorry for your loss. Your aunt was a wonderful woman.” Grace relaxed her arm as the elevator door opened on the seventh floor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“That’s about the only thing we agree on,” she said, ushering Connie out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“If you need a break,” Hank said as the elevator door closed between them, “I’d be happy to take you on a cruise down the beach in my convertible.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs soon as the doors closed Connie had to laugh. “Is that guy for real? I feel like I need a shower after that conversation!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eBut Grace wasn’t laughing. She looked fit to be tied.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThey made their way down the hallway and stopped at Grace’s door.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Don’t worry about me, Grace. I can handle guys like that,” Connie said, depositing Grace’s grocery bags just inside her door.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m sure you can. You\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eare\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eConcetta’s niece after all. Just be on guard when Hank O’Rourke’s around. He’s relentless with my daughter Stephanie.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe thanked Grace for the warning and continued down the hallway to the next door. Taking a deep breath, Connie slowly unlocked the door to her aunt’s – now her – condo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49290487300413,"sku":"SBPAPERBACKS1-12","price":107.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/BookBrushImage-2024-8-26-15-3428.png?v=1724780798"},{"product_id":"seaside-ice-cream-shop-mystery-paperback-bundle-books-1-4-paperbacks","title":"Seaside Ice Cream Shop Mystery Paperback Bundle (Books 1-4), Paperbacks","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBooks 1-4 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePrefer Ebooks? \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"background: white; margin: 0in 0in 10.5pt 0in;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #333333;\"\u003eIf you love small New England seaside towns, endearing characters, page-turner mysteries, and ice cream parlors, you’ll love the \u003ci\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries!\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"a-unordered-list a-vertical\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eBanana Slit \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 1)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eI Scream\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (Book 2)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSalted Caramel Crime\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (Book 3)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eHot Fudge Homicide \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 4)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; line-height: normal;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" width=\"89\" height=\"17\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“This is a great mystery with an amazing cast of characters and ice cream!”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Vickie M. Brown\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“Good characters. Believable plot. Good, clean fun.\" \u003cbr\u003e    - Amy Belle Schmidt\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“Angela Ryan's latest series is off to an amazing start! Once I started reading, I couldn't stop. Ice cream, a seacoast town, murder mystery and unanswered questions all make for a great series.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - MBF\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“Another cozy mystery series I’ve been hooked on!\u003c\/span\u003e”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Victoria\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';\"\u003e\"Love the characters and storyline. Very clean and a great cozy! Can't wait to read the next book.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';\"\u003e   - Shannon S.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“This is a charming mystery that will keep you guessing until the end. It made me want to visit the quaint seaside resort and splurge on ice cream!”\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Papa Trox\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\" data-hook=\"review-body\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBanana Slit: Chapter 1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnnabel McBride swooned a little as the jaw-droppingly handsome Marcus Grady strode into her ice cream shop, with his black guitar bag swung over his broad shoulders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna wasn’t the type to become starstruck, but this man was a sight to behold. His light brown hair fell in layers above his ears, and his short, manicured beard gave him an irresistibly rugged look. Not to mention those smiling green eyes.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter a sharp elbow in the ribs from one of her employees, Velma Bryant, Anna managed to speak. “You must be Marcus. Welcome. It’s an honor to have you perform at my grand opening.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus flashed Anna a half smile. “It’s my pleasure, ma’am.” His voice was reminiscent of honey. For a moment, Anna forgot that she was about to open the doors to her ice cream shop, \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e, for the first time. She wasn’t sure if the fluttering in her stomach was nerves, or if it was the result of meeting Seagull Cove’s favorite son, who also happened to be a pop music star.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWho knew the ice cream business could be so interesting? If Anna had, perhaps she would have retired from her psychological counseling practice in Boston years ago. Of course, if she \u003ci\u003ehad\u003c\/i\u003e done it years ago, it would have been with her sister, Bella, by her side.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus winked at Anna. “I’m always happy to support a new business in my hometown. Besides, I’m on a break from touring, so I’m in town, anyway.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna had a feeling that, in addition to Marcus’s generosity, she also had Velma to thank for Marcus’s appearance. Velma had lived her whole life in Seagull Cove, and she couldn’t have been more well-connected if she were the town’s mayor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA man with stringy grey hair that fell just below his shoulders impatiently cleared his throat. Then he gave Anna a curt wave. “I’m Ted, Marcus’s sound guy. Where should I set up?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eTed was probably used to women losing their power of speech in front of Marcus. Not that Anna had any real interest in Marcus Grady, even if he had been anywhere near her league. Besides the fact that Marcus was in his late twenties and Anna was forty-four, she was not interested in a romantic relationship with \u003ci\u003eanyone\u003c\/i\u003e. All Anna wanted was to build her business and settle into her new life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWith her head down so that nobody would see her blushing like a teenager, Anna guided the two men through the large rectangular opening that led from the room that housed her ice cream counter to a larger dining room and gathering space. The far wall was lined with booths, and square wooden tables were scattered throughout the rest of the room. Anna imagined musicians, comedians, and open mic nights bringing the room alive. She smiled as she envisioned book clubs and other gatherings drawing the community into her shop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJust like Bella had dreamed of.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna accompanied Marcus and Ted to a vacant area against the back wall. “You can set up there.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eTed disappeared, presumably to fetch the sound equipment, while Marcus pulled out a mahogany guitar.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“That’s a beautiful instrument,” Anna said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus rested against a stool and strummed a few chords. “This hunk of wood is more than a musical instrument. She’s more like a faithful old friend.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Ted returned, a man who appeared to be in his early forties was with him. “I’m Donny Donaldson, Marcus’s manager. We spoke on the phone.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Yes,” Anna said, shaking Donny’s hand. “It’s nice to meet you in person. If there’s anything else you need, just let me know.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thanks. I think we’ve got it from here.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna glanced at the strawberry ice cream cone clock on the wall next to the counter. It was nearly time to open the doors. She wiped her palms on her black pants and took a deep breath. Anna had been anticipating this day ever since she made the decision to close her counseling practice and open \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e while visiting her cousin, Connie, in Florida.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Anna turned around to scoot behind the counter, Velma, along with two of her other employees, Jack and Olivia, stood watching her. Anna’s cheeks once again grew warm. “I’m sorry, I should have introduced you to Marcus. I guess I got a little tongue-tied.” Velma was her most experienced employee by far. She had worked for the former owners of the ice cream shop, which had previously been called \u003ci\u003eSeagull Cove\u003c\/i\u003e \u003ci\u003eCreamery. \u003c\/i\u003eJack and Olivia were finishing up their junior year at the local high school and needed summer work.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna and her team were as ready as they would ever be for the steady stream of customers that she prayed would come throughout the day.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIt had to if \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e was going to succeed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“No worries,” Jack said. “We see Marcus around all the time. It’s not a big deal for those of us who grew up in Seagull Cove.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWithin a half hour, the sound check was complete, and Anna was opening the doors to \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe kicked down the doorstop, allowing the cool, salty air to drift into the shop. The temperatures had climbed to the low seventies, which was unusually high for late-May. As far as Anna was concerned, it was nothing short of a miracle. Between it being Memorial Day weekend, the sunshine, and Marcus’s music - not to mention Anna’s amazing half-price banana splits - there should be no shortage of customers. She also hoped her free scoops for kids would draw families to her grand opening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna looked expectantly through the front window. Her storefront was mostly glass. It consisted of two large windows, each with one cafe-style table looking onto Main Street, with a glass door in the middle.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA young boy with red hair and freckles was Anna’s first customer. He sprinted toward the shop, sounding like a stampede of wild horses. He was a few yards ahead of a man, a woman, and a young girl, who Anna presumed were his parents and little sister. Anna hopped behind the counter to greet her first official customer. “Hello, there!”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe boy stood in front of the counter with his hands behind his back, looking up at Anna with a wide grin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Are you here for your free scoop?”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHe nodded his head vigorously. “Chocolate, please.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe boy’s family caught up to him while Anna fulfilled his request. The woman, who had the same red locks as the boy, ruffled his hair. “Frankie is here for the ice cream.” Then she lowered her voice. “As much as I love ice cream, I’m here more for Marcus.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna handed Frankie his chocolaty cone. Then Jack and Olivia took over, serving the rest of the family. Then the next customers. And the next. Most people took their sweet concoctions into the adjacent room, where Marcus was strumming his guitar and singing his way through his many hit songs.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna’s heart swelled as she watched her sister’s dream spring to life before her eyes. After so much planning and second-guessing herself, it had all been worth it. Anna hadn’t felt happier since before…well, before her life changed forever just four years, eight months, and three days ago. But today, nothing could steal her happiness.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna stood by the entrance greeting her customers, while Velma took their orders and rang them up, and Jack and Olivia scooped the ice cream and made more banana splits than they probably ever imagined they would make in one day.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter a couple of hours, the foot traffic slowed down. Anna made herself a cone with a scoop of salted caramel ice cream and brought it into the dining room to socialize with her customers. Salted caramel was definitely her favorite. Or was it mint chocolate chip? Or rocky road? Or cookie dough? Or butter pecan? Or rum raisin? Or… There were so many. She would have to increase her workouts if she was ever going to keep her waistline in check. But that was a problem for another day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhile Marcus masterfully entertained the crowd, Anna made the rounds, chatting with her patrons, who she hoped would become regular customers. Then she took a break and stood at the back of the room facing Marcus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA couple, who had been among the first few customers to arrive, sat at the table closest to Marcus. They looked to be in their late forties. The woman was wearing a Marcus Grady concert t-shirt and was staring at Marcus as if he were the only person in the world. Anna wondered if the man who was with her was her husband. He kept glancing at his watch and looking around the room, as if he were bored.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA few minutes later, Anna’s cousin, Gianna, along with her husband, Gary, and their five-year-old twins, arrived and sat with Anna’s parents, Judy and Al, and her brother, Albie. Albie’s sixteen-year-old daughter, Sophia, was unable to attend, because she had to work. Anna’s parents had recently retired to southern New Hampshire, which was about an hour away from Seagull Cove.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGianna gave Anna two thumbs up as she made her way to her family’s table. Anna went over to greet them, and after a few words of support from her family, Albie pointed to a table near Marcus. Anna couldn’t believe her eyes when she saw who was sitting there. It was Marcus’s girlfriend, Jasmine Hall, wearing an elegant floral lavender blouse over faded blue jeans. And Marcus was inviting her up to sing. What a treat to have two stars in her shop!\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe crowd encouraged Jasmine with ardent applause.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs Marcus sang his latest hit, “Jasmine’s Song,” he gazed into Jasmine’s eyes. A twinge of sadness crept over Anna as she remembered the only man whom she had ever felt that way about. She shook off her sorrow and reminded herself yet again that she was lucky to have ever loved anyone as much as she had loved Ian. Even if their time together had been short.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus finished the song to a standing ovation, then Jasmine joined him in a duet. Judging from the smiles on her customers’ faces, and her weary employees, the day couldn’t have gone any better.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Marcus’s performance neared its end, customers gradually filed out, and Ted packed up the sound equipment.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I can’t thank the two of you enough for helping to make this day a success,” Anna said to Marcus and Jasmine. “I can’t believe you wouldn’t let me pay you for your time. At least take some ice cream home.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’d better not if I want these jeans to fit,” Marcus said, patting his stomach. “And don’t mention it. I love performing for the people of my hometown. They always had faith in me, even when I was boy. But I am going to slip out as discreetly as possible, or I’ll be here all night.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Go ahead, honey,” Jasmine said. “I’ll stick around to sign a few autographs.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus managed to slip out the front door without attracting too much attention.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA few minutes later, Anna’s family stood to leave, so she went over to say a quick goodbye. “Bella would be so proud,” Judy said. She could tell by her mother’s quivering lip that she was fighting back tears. Al silently nodded his agreement. The only time Al McBride was ever quiet was when he was choked up, so Anna knew it had been an emotional day for him, as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJasmine remained at her table for more than an hour signing autographs and posing for selfies, while Donny stuck around to monitor the never-ending line. It was obvious why Marcus had wanted to make a break for it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna wiped down the front tables and the ice cream counter, saying a prayer that its round stools would always be full of happy customers enjoying her famous banana splits - at least they were famous in the McBride family.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eVelma was speaking to two gentlemen whom Anna had seen in the dining room earlier. They were now seated at the counter, and Jack and Olivia were finally taking a break and enjoying a well-deserved scoop.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eVelma motioned for Anna to join them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49374875091261,"sku":"ICPAPERBACKS1-4","price":44.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/ICPaperbacks1-4.png?v=1726274581"},{"product_id":"seaside-ice-cream-shop-mystery-paperback-bundle-books-5-8-paperbacks","title":"Seaside Ice Cream Shop Mystery Paperback Bundle (Books 5-8), Paperbacks","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBooks 5-8 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePrefer Ebooks? \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"background: white; margin: 0in 0in 10.5pt 0in;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #333333;\"\u003eIf you love small New England seaside towns, endearing characters, page-turner mysteries, and ice cream parlors, you’ll love the \u003ci\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries!\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"a-unordered-list a-vertical\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003ePeppermint Stick-Up \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 5)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFrozen Pudding Fiasco\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (Book 6)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMango Murder\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (Book 7)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eWhipped Crime \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 8)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; line-height: normal;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" width=\"89\" height=\"17\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt;\"\u003e\"Oh, wow. I didn't see that one coming! I love the way Angela describes the locations and people.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt;\"\u003e   - Brenda\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-30c7a4aa dc-has-condition dc-condition-empty elementor-widget elementor-widget-testimonial\" data-id=\"30c7a4aa\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"testimonial.default\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-testimonial-wrapper\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"The characters are great and it's very exciting getting to the guilty party. I will tell all my friends about this series.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e   - Diana\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\" data-hook=\"review-body\"\u003eAnother fun read in this addictive series! Gets better with each book! Can’t wait to read the next one!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e   - Nana Fields\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\" data-hook=\"review-body\"\u003e\"Another great cozy mystery. The characters are so likeable and relatable. I am so enjoying this series. On to the next one.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\" data-hook=\"review-body\"\u003e    - MKW\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\" data-hook=\"review-body\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeppermint Stick-Up: Chapter 1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Ready, kiddo?” Joe Wiggins asked as he entered\u003ci\u003e Bella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e sporting a burgundy sweater embroidered with a giant hunter green Christmas tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna couldn’t suppress her smile. “Love your sweater, Joe. Way to get into the holiday spirit.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“This sweater does the trick every year. Besides, I wanted to meet this cousin of yours in style. You’ve talked so much about Connie that I feel like I know her already.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna had been counting down the minutes until closing time, when she would finally see her cousin. Connie had arrived in Massachusetts a few days ago, after driving up from southwest Florida, so she wouldn’t need to rent a car during her two-and-a-half week stay. She had spent the last few days with her parents and sister, who lived in Wakefield, which was about forty-five minutes from Seagull Cove. Now it was Anna’s turn for a long-awaited visit with her cousin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe strawberry ice cream cone clock on the wall next to the counter struck 7:30, which was Anna’s closing time in the winter. The other shops closed at 7:00, but Anna remained open for an additional half hour, in case weary shoppers wanted to stop in for an ice cream before heading home after an evening of holiday shopping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHer employees had just left, and Anna had already fed Casper, the feral cat who found his way to the stoop outside her back door each night just before closing time. He always expected a snack. All that was left for Anna to do was flip the sign on her front door to say ‘closed,’ and grab a container of peppermint stick ice cream for later that evening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Most people prefer \u003ci\u003ewarm\u003c\/i\u003e treats when they decorate their tree. Leave it to you to serve ice cream,” Joe said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It seemed fitting, since this is my first Christmas as an ice cream shop owner.” Anna couldn’t wait to introduce Joe and Connie, but she also couldn’t wait to have her cousin all to herself afterwards. At Connie’s request, Anna hesitantly agreed to save her tree decorating for the two of them to do together. She usually put up her Christmas tree the week after Thanksgiving so it would last until after the New Year, but she held off an extra week so she and Connie could decorate it together. However, as a compromise, she decorated the rest of her blue and white cottage inside and out, so the tree was all that remained.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA happy warmth spread across Anna’s chest as she thought of the perfect evening that lay ahead. First, Joe and Connie would meet over a cup of coffee at the \u003ci\u003eSand Dollar Grille\u003c\/i\u003e. Then Anna and Connie would decorate the tree, have some peppermint stick ice cream by a roaring fire, and catch up on life. They had so much to catch up on, especially Anna’s investigation into her sister Bella’s apparently fake death.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna placed the ice cream container into a brown paper bag, slipped on a navy down winter coat, and the two set out toward the \u003ci\u003eSand Dollar Grille\u003c\/i\u003e, just up the street, where Connie should just about be finishing dinner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter locking the door, Anna peeked around the side of the building at Joe’s second-floor apartment. The white wooden staircase was tightly wrapped in colored lights, and an oversized Christmas tree stood proudly in front of the window. It must have taken up half of his living room. The shops on Main Street were all decorated with white lights, so Joe’s colored lights stood out. “I don’t know why I’m surprised that you go all out for Christmas,” she said. “You truly are a kid at heart.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe simply chuckled.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThey crossed Main Street and headed north toward the \u003ci\u003eSand Dollar Grille\u003c\/i\u003e. Anna could feel the smile plastered on her face. She had been looking forward to this day ever since she learned in October that Connie would be coming for Christmas.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe glanced at Anna. “It’s good to see you so happy.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe shops were closed, and Main Street was already empty, but the Christmas lights that decorated them were still on. The town requested that the Main Street business owners set their lights to turn off with a timer at midnight, even though most of the shops closed at 7:00.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe elegant black streetlights that flanked Main Street, reminiscent of the gas fixtures from days of old, further lit their path. The shop owners had shoveled the sidewalks in front of the stores after an early snowstorm, leaving icy white piles along the edge of the sidewalk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe sound of Joe’s cell phone ringing broke the silence as they passed \u003ci\u003eJade’s Jewelry Shop\u003c\/i\u003e. He glanced at the screen. “Let me get this real quick. It’s one of my buddies. He probably wants to confirm our plans for tomorrow night.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna stepped into the jewelry store’s covered entryway to get away from the biting wind. She was surprised to see Casper standing in front of the old wooden door. Anna bent down and scratched his head. “Hello, little fellow. What are you doing here?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eCasper meowed, and a strange feeling crept over Anna. She stepped back onto the sidewalk and peered up and down Main Street, but nothing seemed out of the ordinary, so she returned to the shelter of the doorway.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Joe finished his phone call, Anna rejoined him on the sidewalk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Shall we go?” Joe asked, pulling up the collar of his coat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThey hadn’t even resumed walking when that ominous feeling returned. Anna was about to tell Joe when she discovered the reason for her uneasiness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA man in a black hoodie stepped out from an alley separating \u003ci\u003eJade’s Jewelry Shop\u003c\/i\u003e and the sandwich shop next to it. The man pointed a gun at them from beneath his sweatshirt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe’s left hand flew protectively in front of Anna, and he stepped ahead of her. “Well, that’s a fine how-do-you-do, young man.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe man pointed to the paper bag Anna was carrying. “Give me that!” He barked in a deep, raspy voice. It sounded as if he were trying to disguise his voice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna looked at Joe, confused, then back at the gunman. “You want my peppermint stick ice cream?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe armed robber yanked the bag from Anna’s hand, opened it, then smashed it on the ground, turning the snow on the edge of the sidewalk pink.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Well, that ticks me off,” Joe said. “You just wasted a container of perfectly good ice cream.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Where is it?” the man cried.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Look,” Joe said, “we both know that you don’t have a gun under that sweatshirt. Why don’t you tell us what you’re looking for before you dig yourself into an even deeper hole?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You really don’t know?” he asked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna and Joe exchanged a confused glance, then stared blankly at the man. Apparently, he believed them, because he turned and sprinted off into the darkness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe made a quick movement and for a moment, Anna thought he was going to chase the man. She grabbed his arm and held on tightly. “Don’t go after him. It’s not worth it.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe winked at Anna. “I’m not. I was just reaching for my phone so we can call Charlie.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eCharlie Doyle was Seagull Cove PD’s only detective.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe took his flip phone out from his coat pocket and placed the call.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna listened while Joe gave Charlie a quick recap of what had just happened.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Yes. We’re still in front of \u003ci\u003eJade’s\u003c\/i\u003e. We’re safe. Okay. We’ll stay here until you arrive. But hurry, Charlie. It’s freezing out here.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Let’s wait inside the covered entryway,” Anna suggested. “At least we won’t have the wind whipping through us.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eCasper was still standing in front of the door. He once again meowed, as if trying to communicate something. That same eerie feeling swept over Anna once again. Had Casper been trying to warn her about the robber, or was there something more?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs they waited for Charlie, Anna glanced at the Christmas tree in the display window of \u003ci\u003eJade’s Jewelry Shop\u003c\/i\u003e. A slew of wrapped presents spilled out from beneath the tree, and it was decorated with white lights and jewelry-themed ornaments. Anna hoped she and Connie would still have time to decorate her own tree by the time they got home. “I should call Connie to let her know we’ll be a little late,” Anna said.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe started to call her cousin when something caught her eye from under the tree. Her heart began to pound. She slipped her phone back into her purse and walked around to the front of the window, pulling Joe along with her. “Joe, is that what I think it is?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe looked at the two feet wearing wool socks and Birkenstock sandals sticking out from under the otherwise festive Christmas tree in the display window.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It looks like a body to me,” Joe said. “Unless that’s someone’s idea of a practical joke.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It would be a pretty sick joke,” Anna said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’d say,” came a familiar voice from behind them. Anna turned around and saw her cousin, Connie, peering over their shoulders and staring at the legs protruding from under the Christmas tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Connie!” Anna squealed, throwing her arms around her cousin, and pulling her into a bear hug. Then she stepped back. “What are you doing here?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I was getting worried when the two of you didn’t show up, so I started walking down Main Street. I figured you must have got tied up at your shop, so I was going to meet you there. Then I saw you pull Joe out of the entryway and stare at the display window. My goodness, that looks like a dead body.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe shook his head. “It figures. Another cousin who runs \u003ci\u003ein\u003c\/i\u003e the direction of danger, rather than away. You’re not even together for one minute, and look what happens.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You must be Joe Wiggins,” Connie said, giving him a big hug. “I feel like I already know you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Same,” Joe said. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna quickly explained to Connie what had happened on their way to the restaurant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“My goodness, you were held up? Are you okay?” Connie asked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I don’t think he had a real gun,” Joe said. “But Detective Charlie Doyle is on his way.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It looks like our plans are going to get off to a late start,” Anna said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eCharlie pulled up in his black Honda rather than a police car, since he had been off duty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Sorry to pull you away from your family on a Friday night so close to Christmas,” Anna said.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe introduced Connie and Charlie.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Nice to meet you, Connie. I’ve heard a lot about you from Anna. It’s no problem. Patty is putting the younger kids to bed. I’m just glad you’re okay. And I’m relieved that you’re not calling about a dead body,” he said with a chuckle. “When Anna McBride is at a crime scene, it usually means someone has been murdered.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“In that case,” Anna said, “I have some \u003ci\u003ereally\u003c\/i\u003e bad news. You might want to call for backup.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna, Connie, and Joe all turned and faced the display window and Anna pointed to the legs, protruding from beneath the Christmas tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You’ve got to be kidding me,” Charlie said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49374929846589,"sku":"ICPAPERBACKS5-8","price":44.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/IC_Paperbacks_5-8.png?v=1726275897"},{"product_id":"seaside-ice-cream-shop-mystery-paperback-bundle-books-1-6-paperbacks","title":"Seaside Ice Cream Shop Mystery Paperback Bundle (Books 1-6), Paperbacks","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003eBooks 1-6 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\"\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer Ebooks? \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #333333;\"\u003eIf you love small New England seaside towns, endearing characters, page-turner mysteries, and ice cream parlors, you’ll love the \u003ci\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries!\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-unordered-list a-vertical\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eBanana Slit \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 1)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eI Scream\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (Book 2)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eSalted Caramel Crime\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (Book 3)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eHot Fudge Homicide \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 4)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003ePeppermint Stick-Up\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 5)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eFrozen Pudding Fiasco\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 6)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"17\" width=\"89\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“This is a great mystery with an amazing cast of characters and ice cream!”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Vickie M. Brown\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“Good characters. Believable plot. Good, clean fun.\" \u003cbr\u003e    - Amy Belle Schmidt\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“Angela Ryan's latest series is off to an amazing start! Once I started reading, I couldn't stop. Ice cream, a seacoast town, murder mystery and unanswered questions all make for a great series.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - MBF\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“Another cozy mystery series I’ve been hooked on!\u003c\/span\u003e”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Victoria\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';\"\u003e\"Love the characters and storyline. Very clean and a great cozy! Can't wait to read the next book.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';\"\u003e   - Shannon S.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“This is a charming mystery that will keep you guessing until the end. It made me want to visit the quaint seaside resort and splurge on ice cream!”\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Papa Trox\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-hook=\"review-body\" class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBanana Slit: Chapter 1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnnabel McBride swooned a little as the jaw-droppingly handsome Marcus Grady strode into her ice cream shop, with his black guitar bag swung over his broad shoulders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna wasn’t the type to become starstruck, but this man was a sight to behold. His light brown hair fell in layers above his ears, and his short, manicured beard gave him an irresistibly rugged look. Not to mention those smiling green eyes.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter a sharp elbow in the ribs from one of her employees, Velma Bryant, Anna managed to speak. “You must be Marcus. Welcome. It’s an honor to have you perform at my grand opening.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus flashed Anna a half smile. “It’s my pleasure, ma’am.” His voice was reminiscent of honey. For a moment, Anna forgot that she was about to open the doors to her ice cream shop, \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e, for the first time. She wasn’t sure if the fluttering in her stomach was nerves, or if it was the result of meeting Seagull Cove’s favorite son, who also happened to be a pop music star.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWho knew the ice cream business could be so interesting? If Anna had, perhaps she would have retired from her psychological counseling practice in Boston years ago. Of course, if she \u003ci\u003ehad\u003c\/i\u003e done it years ago, it would have been with her sister, Bella, by her side.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus winked at Anna. “I’m always happy to support a new business in my hometown. Besides, I’m on a break from touring, so I’m in town, anyway.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna had a feeling that, in addition to Marcus’s generosity, she also had Velma to thank for Marcus’s appearance. Velma had lived her whole life in Seagull Cove, and she couldn’t have been more well-connected if she were the town’s mayor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA man with stringy grey hair that fell just below his shoulders impatiently cleared his throat. Then he gave Anna a curt wave. “I’m Ted, Marcus’s sound guy. Where should I set up?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eTed was probably used to women losing their power of speech in front of Marcus. Not that Anna had any real interest in Marcus Grady, even if he had been anywhere near her league. Besides the fact that Marcus was in his late twenties and Anna was forty-four, she was not interested in a romantic relationship with \u003ci\u003eanyone\u003c\/i\u003e. All Anna wanted was to build her business and settle into her new life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWith her head down so that nobody would see her blushing like a teenager, Anna guided the two men through the large rectangular opening that led from the room that housed her ice cream counter to a larger dining room and gathering space. The far wall was lined with booths, and square wooden tables were scattered throughout the rest of the room. Anna imagined musicians, comedians, and open mic nights bringing the room alive. She smiled as she envisioned book clubs and other gatherings drawing the community into her shop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJust like Bella had dreamed of.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna accompanied Marcus and Ted to a vacant area against the back wall. “You can set up there.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eTed disappeared, presumably to fetch the sound equipment, while Marcus pulled out a mahogany guitar.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“That’s a beautiful instrument,” Anna said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus rested against a stool and strummed a few chords. “This hunk of wood is more than a musical instrument. She’s more like a faithful old friend.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Ted returned, a man who appeared to be in his early forties was with him. “I’m Donny Donaldson, Marcus’s manager. We spoke on the phone.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Yes,” Anna said, shaking Donny’s hand. “It’s nice to meet you in person. If there’s anything else you need, just let me know.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thanks. I think we’ve got it from here.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna glanced at the strawberry ice cream cone clock on the wall next to the counter. It was nearly time to open the doors. She wiped her palms on her black pants and took a deep breath. Anna had been anticipating this day ever since she made the decision to close her counseling practice and open \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e while visiting her cousin, Connie, in Florida.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Anna turned around to scoot behind the counter, Velma, along with two of her other employees, Jack and Olivia, stood watching her. Anna’s cheeks once again grew warm. “I’m sorry, I should have introduced you to Marcus. I guess I got a little tongue-tied.” Velma was her most experienced employee by far. She had worked for the former owners of the ice cream shop, which had previously been called \u003ci\u003eSeagull Cove\u003c\/i\u003e \u003ci\u003eCreamery. \u003c\/i\u003eJack and Olivia were finishing up their junior year at the local high school and needed summer work.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna and her team were as ready as they would ever be for the steady stream of customers that she prayed would come throughout the day.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIt had to if \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e was going to succeed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“No worries,” Jack said. “We see Marcus around all the time. It’s not a big deal for those of us who grew up in Seagull Cove.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWithin a half hour, the sound check was complete, and Anna was opening the doors to \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe kicked down the doorstop, allowing the cool, salty air to drift into the shop. The temperatures had climbed to the low seventies, which was unusually high for late-May. As far as Anna was concerned, it was nothing short of a miracle. Between it being Memorial Day weekend, the sunshine, and Marcus’s music - not to mention Anna’s amazing half-price banana splits - there should be no shortage of customers. She also hoped her free scoops for kids would draw families to her grand opening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna looked expectantly through the front window. Her storefront was mostly glass. It consisted of two large windows, each with one cafe-style table looking onto Main Street, with a glass door in the middle.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA young boy with red hair and freckles was Anna’s first customer. He sprinted toward the shop, sounding like a stampede of wild horses. He was a few yards ahead of a man, a woman, and a young girl, who Anna presumed were his parents and little sister. Anna hopped behind the counter to greet her first official customer. “Hello, there!”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe boy stood in front of the counter with his hands behind his back, looking up at Anna with a wide grin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Are you here for your free scoop?”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHe nodded his head vigorously. “Chocolate, please.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe boy’s family caught up to him while Anna fulfilled his request. The woman, who had the same red locks as the boy, ruffled his hair. “Frankie is here for the ice cream.” Then she lowered her voice. “As much as I love ice cream, I’m here more for Marcus.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna handed Frankie his chocolaty cone. Then Jack and Olivia took over, serving the rest of the family. Then the next customers. And the next. Most people took their sweet concoctions into the adjacent room, where Marcus was strumming his guitar and singing his way through his many hit songs.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna’s heart swelled as she watched her sister’s dream spring to life before her eyes. After so much planning and second-guessing herself, it had all been worth it. Anna hadn’t felt happier since before…well, before her life changed forever just four years, eight months, and three days ago. But today, nothing could steal her happiness.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna stood by the entrance greeting her customers, while Velma took their orders and rang them up, and Jack and Olivia scooped the ice cream and made more banana splits than they probably ever imagined they would make in one day.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter a couple of hours, the foot traffic slowed down. Anna made herself a cone with a scoop of salted caramel ice cream and brought it into the dining room to socialize with her customers. Salted caramel was definitely her favorite. Or was it mint chocolate chip? Or rocky road? Or cookie dough? Or butter pecan? Or rum raisin? Or… There were so many. She would have to increase her workouts if she was ever going to keep her waistline in check. But that was a problem for another day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhile Marcus masterfully entertained the crowd, Anna made the rounds, chatting with her patrons, who she hoped would become regular customers. Then she took a break and stood at the back of the room facing Marcus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA couple, who had been among the first few customers to arrive, sat at the table closest to Marcus. They looked to be in their late forties. The woman was wearing a Marcus Grady concert t-shirt and was staring at Marcus as if he were the only person in the world. Anna wondered if the man who was with her was her husband. He kept glancing at his watch and looking around the room, as if he were bored.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA few minutes later, Anna’s cousin, Gianna, along with her husband, Gary, and their five-year-old twins, arrived and sat with Anna’s parents, Judy and Al, and her brother, Albie. Albie’s sixteen-year-old daughter, Sophia, was unable to attend, because she had to work. Anna’s parents had recently retired to southern New Hampshire, which was about an hour away from Seagull Cove.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGianna gave Anna two thumbs up as she made her way to her family’s table. Anna went over to greet them, and after a few words of support from her family, Albie pointed to a table near Marcus. Anna couldn’t believe her eyes when she saw who was sitting there. It was Marcus’s girlfriend, Jasmine Hall, wearing an elegant floral lavender blouse over faded blue jeans. And Marcus was inviting her up to sing. What a treat to have two stars in her shop!\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe crowd encouraged Jasmine with ardent applause.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs Marcus sang his latest hit, “Jasmine’s Song,” he gazed into Jasmine’s eyes. A twinge of sadness crept over Anna as she remembered the only man whom she had ever felt that way about. She shook off her sorrow and reminded herself yet again that she was lucky to have ever loved anyone as much as she had loved Ian. Even if their time together had been short.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus finished the song to a standing ovation, then Jasmine joined him in a duet. Judging from the smiles on her customers’ faces, and her weary employees, the day couldn’t have gone any better.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Marcus’s performance neared its end, customers gradually filed out, and Ted packed up the sound equipment.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I can’t thank the two of you enough for helping to make this day a success,” Anna said to Marcus and Jasmine. “I can’t believe you wouldn’t let me pay you for your time. At least take some ice cream home.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’d better not if I want these jeans to fit,” Marcus said, patting his stomach. “And don’t mention it. I love performing for the people of my hometown. They always had faith in me, even when I was boy. But I am going to slip out as discreetly as possible, or I’ll be here all night.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Go ahead, honey,” Jasmine said. “I’ll stick around to sign a few autographs.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus managed to slip out the front door without attracting too much attention.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA few minutes later, Anna’s family stood to leave, so she went over to say a quick goodbye. “Bella would be so proud,” Judy said. She could tell by her mother’s quivering lip that she was fighting back tears. Al silently nodded his agreement. The only time Al McBride was ever quiet was when he was choked up, so Anna knew it had been an emotional day for him, as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJasmine remained at her table for more than an hour signing autographs and posing for selfies, while Donny stuck around to monitor the never-ending line. It was obvious why Marcus had wanted to make a break for it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna wiped down the front tables and the ice cream counter, saying a prayer that its round stools would always be full of happy customers enjoying her famous banana splits - at least they were famous in the McBride family.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eVelma was speaking to two gentlemen whom Anna had seen in the dining room earlier. They were now seated at the counter, and Jack and Olivia were finally taking a break and enjoying a well-deserved scoop.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eVelma motioned for Anna to join them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49374971625789,"sku":"ICPAPERBACKS1-6","price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/IC_Paperbacks_1-6.png?v=1726275897"},{"product_id":"seaside-ice-cream-shop-mystery-paperback-bundle-books-1-12-paperbacks","title":"Seaside Ice Cream Shop Mystery Paperback Bundle (Books 1-12), Paperbacks","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003eBooks 1-12 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\"\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries (Complete Series)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer Ebooks? \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #333333;\"\u003eIf you love small New England seaside towns, endearing characters, page-turner mysteries, and ice cream parlors, you’ll love the \u003ci\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries!\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"a-unordered-list a-vertical\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ci\u003eBanana Slit \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 1)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eI Scream\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (Book 2)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eSalted Caramel Crime\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (Book 3)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ci\u003eHot Fudge Homicide \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 4)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003ePeppermint Stick-Up\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 5)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eFrozen Pudding Fiasco\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 6)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eMango Murder\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 7)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eWhipped Crime \u003c\/em\u003e(Book 8)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eCookie Dough Catastrophe\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 9)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eA Sprinkle of Death \u003c\/em\u003e(Book 10)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTutti Frutti Tragedy (Book 12)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg height=\"17\" width=\"89\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“This is a great mystery with an amazing cast of characters and ice cream!”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Vickie M. Brown\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“Good characters. Believable plot. Good, clean fun.\" \u003cbr\u003e    - Amy Belle Schmidt\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“Angela Ryan's latest series is off to an amazing start! Once I started reading, I couldn't stop. Ice cream, a seacoast town, murder mystery and unanswered questions all make for a great series.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - MBF\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“Another cozy mystery series I’ve been hooked on!\u003c\/span\u003e”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Victoria\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';\"\u003e\"Love the characters and storyline. Very clean and a great cozy! Can't wait to read the next book.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';\"\u003e   - Shannon S.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“This is a charming mystery that will keep you guessing until the end. It made me want to visit the quaint seaside resort and splurge on ice cream!”\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Papa Trox\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-hook=\"review-body\" class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBanana Slit: Chapter 1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnnabel McBride swooned a little as the jaw-droppingly handsome Marcus Grady strode into her ice cream shop, with his black guitar bag swung over his broad shoulders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna wasn’t the type to become starstruck, but this man was a sight to behold. His light brown hair fell in layers above his ears, and his short, manicured beard gave him an irresistibly rugged look. Not to mention those smiling green eyes.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter a sharp elbow in the ribs from one of her employees, Velma Bryant, Anna managed to speak. “You must be Marcus. Welcome. It’s an honor to have you perform at my grand opening.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus flashed Anna a half smile. “It’s my pleasure, ma’am.” His voice was reminiscent of honey. For a moment, Anna forgot that she was about to open the doors to her ice cream shop, \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e, for the first time. She wasn’t sure if the fluttering in her stomach was nerves, or if it was the result of meeting Seagull Cove’s favorite son, who also happened to be a pop music star.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWho knew the ice cream business could be so interesting? If Anna had, perhaps she would have retired from her psychological counseling practice in Boston years ago. Of course, if she \u003ci\u003ehad\u003c\/i\u003e done it years ago, it would have been with her sister, Bella, by her side.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus winked at Anna. “I’m always happy to support a new business in my hometown. Besides, I’m on a break from touring, so I’m in town, anyway.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna had a feeling that, in addition to Marcus’s generosity, she also had Velma to thank for Marcus’s appearance. Velma had lived her whole life in Seagull Cove, and she couldn’t have been more well-connected if she were the town’s mayor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA man with stringy grey hair that fell just below his shoulders impatiently cleared his throat. Then he gave Anna a curt wave. “I’m Ted, Marcus’s sound guy. Where should I set up?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eTed was probably used to women losing their power of speech in front of Marcus. Not that Anna had any real interest in Marcus Grady, even if he had been anywhere near her league. Besides the fact that Marcus was in his late twenties and Anna was forty-four, she was not interested in a romantic relationship with \u003ci\u003eanyone\u003c\/i\u003e. All Anna wanted was to build her business and settle into her new life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWith her head down so that nobody would see her blushing like a teenager, Anna guided the two men through the large rectangular opening that led from the room that housed her ice cream counter to a larger dining room and gathering space. The far wall was lined with booths, and square wooden tables were scattered throughout the rest of the room. Anna imagined musicians, comedians, and open mic nights bringing the room alive. She smiled as she envisioned book clubs and other gatherings drawing the community into her shop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJust like Bella had dreamed of.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna accompanied Marcus and Ted to a vacant area against the back wall. “You can set up there.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eTed disappeared, presumably to fetch the sound equipment, while Marcus pulled out a mahogany guitar.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“That’s a beautiful instrument,” Anna said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus rested against a stool and strummed a few chords. “This hunk of wood is more than a musical instrument. She’s more like a faithful old friend.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Ted returned, a man who appeared to be in his early forties was with him. “I’m Donny Donaldson, Marcus’s manager. We spoke on the phone.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Yes,” Anna said, shaking Donny’s hand. “It’s nice to meet you in person. If there’s anything else you need, just let me know.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thanks. I think we’ve got it from here.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna glanced at the strawberry ice cream cone clock on the wall next to the counter. It was nearly time to open the doors. She wiped her palms on her black pants and took a deep breath. Anna had been anticipating this day ever since she made the decision to close her counseling practice and open \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e while visiting her cousin, Connie, in Florida.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Anna turned around to scoot behind the counter, Velma, along with two of her other employees, Jack and Olivia, stood watching her. Anna’s cheeks once again grew warm. “I’m sorry, I should have introduced you to Marcus. I guess I got a little tongue-tied.” Velma was her most experienced employee by far. She had worked for the former owners of the ice cream shop, which had previously been called \u003ci\u003eSeagull Cove\u003c\/i\u003e \u003ci\u003eCreamery. \u003c\/i\u003eJack and Olivia were finishing up their junior year at the local high school and needed summer work.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna and her team were as ready as they would ever be for the steady stream of customers that she prayed would come throughout the day.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIt had to if \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e was going to succeed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“No worries,” Jack said. “We see Marcus around all the time. It’s not a big deal for those of us who grew up in Seagull Cove.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWithin a half hour, the sound check was complete, and Anna was opening the doors to \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe kicked down the doorstop, allowing the cool, salty air to drift into the shop. The temperatures had climbed to the low seventies, which was unusually high for late-May. As far as Anna was concerned, it was nothing short of a miracle. Between it being Memorial Day weekend, the sunshine, and Marcus’s music - not to mention Anna’s amazing half-price banana splits - there should be no shortage of customers. She also hoped her free scoops for kids would draw families to her grand opening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna looked expectantly through the front window. Her storefront was mostly glass. It consisted of two large windows, each with one cafe-style table looking onto Main Street, with a glass door in the middle.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA young boy with red hair and freckles was Anna’s first customer. He sprinted toward the shop, sounding like a stampede of wild horses. He was a few yards ahead of a man, a woman, and a young girl, who Anna presumed were his parents and little sister. Anna hopped behind the counter to greet her first official customer. “Hello, there!”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe boy stood in front of the counter with his hands behind his back, looking up at Anna with a wide grin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Are you here for your free scoop?”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHe nodded his head vigorously. “Chocolate, please.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe boy’s family caught up to him while Anna fulfilled his request. The woman, who had the same red locks as the boy, ruffled his hair. “Frankie is here for the ice cream.” Then she lowered her voice. “As much as I love ice cream, I’m here more for Marcus.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna handed Frankie his chocolaty cone. Then Jack and Olivia took over, serving the rest of the family. Then the next customers. And the next. Most people took their sweet concoctions into the adjacent room, where Marcus was strumming his guitar and singing his way through his many hit songs.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna’s heart swelled as she watched her sister’s dream spring to life before her eyes. After so much planning and second-guessing herself, it had all been worth it. Anna hadn’t felt happier since before…well, before her life changed forever just four years, eight months, and three days ago. But today, nothing could steal her happiness.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna stood by the entrance greeting her customers, while Velma took their orders and rang them up, and Jack and Olivia scooped the ice cream and made more banana splits than they probably ever imagined they would make in one day.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter a couple of hours, the foot traffic slowed down. Anna made herself a cone with a scoop of salted caramel ice cream and brought it into the dining room to socialize with her customers. Salted caramel was definitely her favorite. Or was it mint chocolate chip? Or rocky road? Or cookie dough? Or butter pecan? Or rum raisin? Or… There were so many. She would have to increase her workouts if she was ever going to keep her waistline in check. But that was a problem for another day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhile Marcus masterfully entertained the crowd, Anna made the rounds, chatting with her patrons, who she hoped would become regular customers. Then she took a break and stood at the back of the room facing Marcus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA couple, who had been among the first few customers to arrive, sat at the table closest to Marcus. They looked to be in their late forties. The woman was wearing a Marcus Grady concert t-shirt and was staring at Marcus as if he were the only person in the world. Anna wondered if the man who was with her was her husband. He kept glancing at his watch and looking around the room, as if he were bored.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA few minutes later, Anna’s cousin, Gianna, along with her husband, Gary, and their five-year-old twins, arrived and sat with Anna’s parents, Judy and Al, and her brother, Albie. Albie’s sixteen-year-old daughter, Sophia, was unable to attend, because she had to work. Anna’s parents had recently retired to southern New Hampshire, which was about an hour away from Seagull Cove.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGianna gave Anna two thumbs up as she made her way to her family’s table. Anna went over to greet them, and after a few words of support from her family, Albie pointed to a table near Marcus. Anna couldn’t believe her eyes when she saw who was sitting there. It was Marcus’s girlfriend, Jasmine Hall, wearing an elegant floral lavender blouse over faded blue jeans. And Marcus was inviting her up to sing. What a treat to have two stars in her shop!\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe crowd encouraged Jasmine with ardent applause.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs Marcus sang his latest hit, “Jasmine’s Song,” he gazed into Jasmine’s eyes. A twinge of sadness crept over Anna as she remembered the only man whom she had ever felt that way about. She shook off her sorrow and reminded herself yet again that she was lucky to have ever loved anyone as much as she had loved Ian. Even if their time together had been short.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus finished the song to a standing ovation, then Jasmine joined him in a duet. Judging from the smiles on her customers’ faces, and her weary employees, the day couldn’t have gone any better.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Marcus’s performance neared its end, customers gradually filed out, and Ted packed up the sound equipment.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I can’t thank the two of you enough for helping to make this day a success,” Anna said to Marcus and Jasmine. “I can’t believe you wouldn’t let me pay you for your time. At least take some ice cream home.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’d better not if I want these jeans to fit,” Marcus said, patting his stomach. “And don’t mention it. I love performing for the people of my hometown. They always had faith in me, even when I was boy. But I am going to slip out as discreetly as possible, or I’ll be here all night.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Go ahead, honey,” Jasmine said. “I’ll stick around to sign a few autographs.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus managed to slip out the front door without attracting too much attention.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA few minutes later, Anna’s family stood to leave, so she went over to say a quick goodbye. “Bella would be so proud,” Judy said. She could tell by her mother’s quivering lip that she was fighting back tears. Al silently nodded his agreement. The only time Al McBride was ever quiet was when he was choked up, so Anna knew it had been an emotional day for him, as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJasmine remained at her table for more than an hour signing autographs and posing for selfies, while Donny stuck around to monitor the never-ending line. It was obvious why Marcus had wanted to make a break for it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna wiped down the front tables and the ice cream counter, saying a prayer that its round stools would always be full of happy customers enjoying her famous banana splits - at least they were famous in the McBride family.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eVelma was speaking to two gentlemen whom Anna had seen in the dining room earlier. They were now seated at the counter, and Jack and Olivia were finally taking a break and enjoying a well-deserved scoop.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eVelma motioned for Anna to join them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51634621251901,"sku":"ICPAPERBACKS1-12","price":107.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/IceCreamPB1-12png.png?v=1777165019"},{"product_id":"seaside-ice-cream-shop-mystery-paperback-bundle-books-9-12-paperbacks","title":"Seaside Ice Cream Shop Mystery Paperback Bundle (Books 9-12), Paperbacks","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003eBooks 9-12 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\"\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer Ebooks? \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"background: white; margin: 0in 0in 10.5pt 0in;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #333333;\"\u003eIf you love small New England seaside towns, endearing characters, page-turner mysteries, and ice cream parlors, you’ll love the \u003ci\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries!\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"a-unordered-list a-vertical\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ci\u003eCookie Dough Catastrophe \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 9)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eA Sprinkle of Death\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (Book 10)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eTutti Frutti Tragedy\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (Book 11)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ci\u003eA Dangerous Scoop \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 12)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; line-height: normal;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" width=\"89\" height=\"17\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;\"\u003e\"As this series has progressed it’s clear that the author took great pleasure in crafting a superb story. This author was new to me but I am grateful I read her first book. To me it’s a must-read series. My blood is pumping knowing that more clues and discoveries are coming! Anxiously awaiting the next book!\"\u003cbr\u003e   - Eileen\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-30c7a4aa dc-has-condition dc-condition-empty elementor-widget elementor-widget-testimonial\" data-id=\"30c7a4aa\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"testimonial.default\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-testimonial-wrapper\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;\"\u003e\"This continues to be an entertaining series. It is also an easy read. Looking forward to the next book. Now I think I’ll go get a scoop of chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream!\"\u003cbr\u003e   - Rae\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;\"\u003e\"What an exceptional read. The story was told very well and the characters pulled it off. I hope the next book comes out quickly. You will enjoy reading this series.\"    \u003cbr\u003e   - Mary\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;\"\u003e\"I promise you won’t regret reading this book; I can’t wait for the next one!\"\u003cbr\u003e   - LIN\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer Ebooks? \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCookie Dough Catastrophe: Chapter 1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Are you absolutely sure that we have enough ice cream for all the people coming to the town picnic this afternoon?” Anna asked Velma as she eyed the portable freezer, which was plugged into a generator by a long extension cord. “I heard that half the town turns out every year for this event, and the temperature is supposed to climb into the high sixties today.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“We’ll be fine,” Velma said. “We rented the exact same freezer two years ago, when the previous owners did this event. Alex and Jack will be standing by all afternoon to run back to the store to pick up more containers of ice cream when we start to run low. Try to relax. It’s going to be a fun day.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna scanned the expansive grassy field, which would soon be filled with picnic blankets and lawn chairs. Several other food vendors had also set up stations nearby, and on the opposite side of the field were booths for games. But the most talked about attraction was a small carousel for the youngest residents of Seagull Cove. It was a new addition to the field, located behind Anna and the other food vendors. “It looks like the Fourth of July.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Nope, it’s just the first Sunday in May,” Velma said. “Come the Fourth, Seagull Cove will be bursting with tourists and summer residents. That’s why the town hosts this picnic every year for full-time residents. It’s the perfect way to come together as a town and celebrate spring. Think of it as the calm before the storm.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It really does sound fun.” She turned her face toward the warm sun, which was shining brightly in the blue sky. “And it’s a beautiful day for it. I guess I’m just nervous, because I’ve never done this.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It will be easy-peasy,” Velma said. “You’ll see. That’s why we’re keeping it simple and only offering two flavors of ice cream—chocolate chip cookie dough and rocky road.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna had polled customers in the weeks before, and those were the most popular flavors. Chocolate chip cookie dough won by a slim margin, with rocky road a close second.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“We’ve got this,” Velma said.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Do you think I have enough help? There’s the two of us, plus Trish, Alex, and Jack.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAlex and Trish, two of Anna’s college student employees, were home for the summer. Jack, a high school student, admired Alex, and was thrilled to learn they’d be working together today for the first time since last summer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Hey, if you need extra help, just text me.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna turned to find her good friend Todd Devonshire smiling in her direction. He had helped her out in a pinch once before in the fall, when Anna was hosting an ice cream sundae party at a client’s home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It’s great to see you, but I thought this picnic was only for residents.” Todd lived in Gloucester, the next town over.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I have connections,” he said. “I’m here with my buddy, Jeff. I just came over to say hello, but seriously, if I can help with scooping ice cream, just let me know.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thanks so much. Velma seems to think we’ll be okay, and she’s usually right. But it’s good to know you’re here, just in case. I’m not as confident as she is.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“My money’s on you.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs Todd left to rejoin his friend, Joe Wiggins made his way across the field toward Anna’s ice cream stand, with his metal detector in tow. “Any chance I could store this contraption here for safe keeping? I want to be able to hit the ground running—literally—as soon as everyone leaves.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eVelma chuckled. “He’s addicted to that contraption.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Of course,” Anna said, moving aside so he could stash it under one of the folding tables. “I’ll be curious to see if you find anything after the crowds leave.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA woman with smooth dark brown hair and an athletic build walked with purpose to Anna and extended her hand. She wore blue jeans and a long-sleeved t-shirt that read \u003ci\u003eCoastal Explorers Youth Camp\u003c\/i\u003e. “I didn’t mean to interrupt, but I wanted to see if you needed anything. I’m Leah Weston,” she said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Right, the new director of the camp,” Anna said. “You did a wonderful job organizing this event.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m so glad you were able to come. I hear last year wasn’t the same without ice cream.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“\u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e wasn’t up and running yet this time last year, and I was preparing for my grand opening. But I’m thrilled to be here today. I think we have everything we need.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“This is my first year, too,” Leah said. “I just started the job in January. I can’t wait to meet more of the families in town, especially now that our first session is only a month away.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Let me get you an ice cream on the house. It’s the least I can do to thank you for your hard work organizing this event. Cookie dough or rocky road?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Cookie dough, please.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna pressed an extra scoop of ice cream into Leah’s cup. “Enjoy.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thank you.” Laugh lines appeared around her eyes as she smiled broadly. “The sugar will help keep me energized.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eRight at noon, families began descending on the field. The grounds were owned by the town and were used for the camp in the summertime, but they also served as the venue for the town’s annual picnic.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna joined her staff, who were serving ice cream to enthusiastic youngsters.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWithin no time, the field was bustling with activity. It was an even larger turnout than Anna had expected, and Velma was right. There simply wouldn’t have been enough room on the property to hold all the tourists and summer residents that would soon flock to Seagull Cove.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJeremy Russo waved at Anna from halfway across the field. He was snapping photos with a camera that hung around his neck.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHe made his way over to greet Anna and her staff, chatted for a few minutes, then strolled over to the carousel to snap some photos of squealing children enjoying the new attraction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eDetective Charlie Doyle came over with his oldest child, Madison, and got six ice creams for himself, his wife Patty, and his four children, who ranged in age from seven to seventeen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAlex and Jack made quick work of scooping four cups of cookie dough ice cream and two cups of rocky road. An hour later, after a steady flow of customers, the young men announced that they were going back to the shop to pick up some more containers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna and Trish took over scooping, while Velma handled the cash register. Anna smiled as she pushed a strand of her long brown hair away from her face. The ice cream stand was running like a well-oiled machine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMary, one of Anna’s employees who wasn’t working that day, came over with her two sons, Darren and Dylan. “How are you doing?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“So far, so good,” Anna said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thanks for giving me the day off so I could enjoy the picnic with my family.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Can I get you boys an ice cream?” Anna asked the middle school-aged boys.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Rocky road,” Darren said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eDylan put his hands in his pockets. “Me, too, please.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“James and I will take a cup of chocolate chip cookie dough.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eVelma handed the boys their ice creams, while Trish filled the other two cups for their parents. \u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I was hoping to introduce the boys to Leah Weston,” Mary said. “They are looking forward to their fourth summer as ‘Coastal Explorers.’”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna glanced around the field and pointed to Charlie’s blanket. “There she is. She’s talking to Charlie and Patty Doyle. I met her earlier. She’ll be making the rounds all afternoon.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Great, thanks. I’ll bring the boys over to say hello.” Mary reached for her wallet, but Anna held up her hand. “Don’t you dare. It’s on the house.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMary smiled warmly. “What do you say, boys?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thanks, Anna,” Darren said with a playful salute.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Yeah, thanks,” Dylan said, with a mouthful of ice cream.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe laughed and handed him some napkins. “Better take these.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eRuthie, Anna’s friend and the owner of \u003ci\u003eThe Book Cove\u003c\/i\u003e, also came over to say hello. She was with a woman Anna had never met. “This is Vicky, an old friend who is visiting for the day.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna extended her hand to the woman, but she was looking across the field and barely noticed. Anna looked at Ruthie, who shrugged her shoulders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Oh, I’m sorry,” Vicky said, turning her attention to Anna and Ruthie. “It’s lovely to meet you. This is such a wonderful event. I own two camps in the area, and I love the idea of using the grounds for a community event in the off-season. I’m just taking it all in.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter Anna’s line began to die down, Jeremy came back over.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Ice cream?” Anna asked.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“No, thanks. I haven’t eaten lunch yet. Can you take a break and join me? I packed extra food,” he said to Anna.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I wish I could, but I don’t want to leave my post.” Anna gestured toward Joe, who was making his way through the crowd as if he were the mayor. “I’ll bet he would, though.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“If I can pry him away from his adoring public. I swear, he’s the most popular guy in Seagull Cove.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Maybe he \u003ci\u003eshould\u003c\/i\u003e run for mayor,” Anna joked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Are you kidding? Nothing could pull him away from retired life, especially not a high-pressure job.” Jeremy leaned in closer. “We’ll talk soon about planning that day trip to Rhode Island,” he said in a low voice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe nodded. “All I can think about is catching Rebecca’s killer so we can bring Bella home,” she said in an equally quiet voice. “Thanks again for the offer for lunch, but I just wouldn’t feel right abandoning my post.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I understand. It’s a good networking opportunity for you, as well.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAlex and Jack returned with more ice cream and replaced the near-empty tubs in the portable freezer.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJeremy stepped back and raised his camera. “Let me get a picture of all of you.” Anna stood with her staff. Jack and Alex each picked up an ice cream scoop and posed for the photo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Great shot,” Jeremy said. “I’ll send it to Anna.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs Jeremy was leaving, Mallory, an attractive brunette woman who also happened to be his former girlfriend, caught up with him. Anna couldn’t hear what she said, but after a few seconds, Jeremy followed her to a blanket.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Isn’t that Jeremy’s ex? She sure is positioning herself for a reconciliation,” Velma said, flashing Anna a reprimanding look.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Yes, that’s Mallory. Why are you looking at me like that?”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You’d better do something so that reconciliation she’s gunning for doesn’t happen,” Velma said. “Jeremy likes you, but if you keep him at a distance for much longer, he might just return to the open arms of his ex.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eFortunately, Anna was rescued by an exuberant little girl in pigtails running toward the ice cream stand, with her father jogging behind to keep up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAt 3:00, the games closed, and by 3:30, folks were beginning to pack up and trickle out of the field. A half hour later, it was time to close down.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m going to bring the cash and receipts to the safe in the shop until the bank opens tomorrow,” Anna said to Trish and Velma.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’ll come with you,” Trish said. “The guys can help us load your car, and I’ll help you bring everything inside.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Great. How about we all take an ice cream break first. It looks like there’s just enough left for us to all have a cup.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“We’ll do it, but just to save you from having to carry it back to \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e,” Alex said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna laughed. “It’s good to know I can count on you for the tough jobs.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe younger employees sat on the grass, while Anna and Velma made use of two plastic chairs behind the tables. Just as they sat down, Todd came over. “I’m about to leave, but I wanted to say goodbye. Now that the warmer weather is coming, you’ll be seeing more of me at \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“We’ll be looking forward to that,” Velma said. “It’s always nice to see you, Todd.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe returned and reached under the table for his metal detector. “You guys look bushed.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Some of us were working all afternoon and not socializing,” Anna said. “Good luck with that metal detector.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’ll hang back with you guys for a little while. People are still clearing out, and I don’t want to look too eager.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMary also returned. “James took the boys home so I could help you break things down.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You’re the best. The more the merrier.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Have you seen Leah?” Mary asked. “I never did get a chance to introduce the boys to her. She was here at the beginning of the afternoon, and then she suddenly disappeared.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna glanced around. “I haven’t seen her since earlier. Maybe she left.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I guess I’ll catch up with her another time.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe sound of a barking dog startled them. Anna turned and saw a cocker spaniel barking at the carousel, which had been quiet and still since the games closed an hour ago.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna chuckled when she saw Casper perched on the carousel, unintimidated by the dog.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m not surprised to see Casper here. He seems to show up everywhere. But where did that dog come from?” Anna asked.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I think that’s George Randolph’s dog, Biscuit. George is the president of the board of directors for \u003ci\u003eCoastal Explorers\u003c\/i\u003e. He probably came from the office. It’s just through that path in the woods.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMary went toward the carousel and grabbed the dog by the collar, but he wouldn’t budge.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna began walking toward Mary to give her a hand, since the dog wouldn’t stop barking. He pulled Mary to the other side of the carousel. She stopped suddenly, bent over, and let out a piercing scream.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna jogged to Mary, who was standing there with her hands on her head while the dog continued to bark.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIt didn’t take long for Anna to understand why Mary was upset. There were two pale legs sticking out from under the carousel. Anna bent to look more closely. It was Leah Weston. Her neck was bruised, and her lips were blue.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHearing Mary’s scream, Joe and Todd also took off in the direction of the carousel. As soon as he saw Leah’s lifeless body underneath, Joe called 9-1-1. Charlie and his family had just left, so Anna texted him, telling him to return right away without his children.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I guess I won’t be using my metal detector here anytime soon,” Joe said. “It looks like this field is now a crime scene.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51648101843261,"sku":"ICPAPERBACKS9-12","price":44.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/ICPB9-12.png?v=1777409505"},{"product_id":"seaside-ice-cream-shop-mystery-paperback-bundle-books-7-12-paperbacks","title":"Seaside Ice Cream Shop Mystery Paperback Bundle (Books 7-12), Paperbacks","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003eBooks 7-12 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\"\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer Ebooks? \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #333333;\"\u003eIf you love small New England seaside towns, endearing characters, page-turner mysteries, and ice cream parlors, you’ll love the \u003ci\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries!\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"a-unordered-list a-vertical\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ci\u003eMango Murder \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 7)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eWhipped Crime\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (Book 8)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eCookie Dough Catastrophe\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (Book 9)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ci\u003eA Sprinkle of Death \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 10)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eTutti Frutti Tragedy\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 11)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ci\u003eA Dangerous Scoop \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 12)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg height=\"17\" width=\"89\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I have never read anything by Angela K. Ryan before, OMG this was fantastic... So many suspects. Love the plot, great setting, and strong, intense, interesting characters.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e   - Margaret\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"This book had lots of twists and turns and it was actually quite the surprise when the culprit was revealed. Enjoy this book!\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e   - Shelly\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I highly recommend this to anyone who loves a good mystery.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e   - Rita\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"For me the ending was a complete surprise! A great story with familiar as well as new characters to embrace.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e   - Chris K.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"This book will keep you guessing to the end!\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e   - Jane\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-hook=\"review-body\" class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBanana Slit: Chapter 1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eVelma filled an inflatable palm tree using a hand pump and arranged it in the middle of a wooden sandbox, which Anna had set up by the front window in the dining room of her ice cream shop, \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I can’t believe how many people purchased tickets,” Anna said. “We are sold to capacity. One more person and we’d be violating fire code.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Wherever did you come up with the idea for a tropical beach ice cream party in the middle of February?” Velma asked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I thought Seagull Cove could use an event to help beat the winter blues and bring some business into the shop. February is such a slow month for a seaside ice cream shop.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I think it’s going to be a smashing success,” Velma said. “We should make it an annual event.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna and Velma laughed out loud when Olivia, Jack, and Ethan - Anna’s three high school employees - arrived dressed in the spirit of the evening. Jack sported blue and white swim trunks and a blue t-shirt under his long winter coat, and was carrying a red floatie, which he promptly put around his waist.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eEthan pulled back his coat to reveal his lime green and white Bermuda shorts, explaining that he found them in the back of one of his father’s bureau drawers, beneath some other ‘old man’ clothes. \u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eOlivia wore a bright sundress over a long-sleeved t-shirt and yoga pants with a red plastic Hawaiian lei around her neck.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You kids look fantastic,” Velma said.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAlong with Velma, Kathy and Mary were already helping Anna to set up the shop. It was all hands on deck for tonight’s party.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna pulled her employees together for an impromptu staff meeting. “I have plenty of tropical flavored ice cream, especially mango. We’ll need some of you to work behind the counter, a couple to collect tickets, and the rest can mill about and keep the dining room clean. I included all the ice cream you can eat in the price of the ticket, so I expect that the counter will be busy.” Anna winked at Jack. “We’ll let Jack focus on becoming famous with his band.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“My friends should be here any minute to set up. Thanks for giving us a chance to perform tonight. We’ve been rehearsing all week.” Anna had hired Jack’s friends, who had formed a garage band, to play beach-themed music.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“This is going to be so much fun,” Olivia said. “I can’t wait for everyone to arrive.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJack scanned the shop. “The store looks awesome. And thanks for turning up the heat. It makes it a lot easier to wear shorts in February.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIn addition to the sandbox and inflatable palm tree by the window, bright folding beach chairs were scattered among some of the regular chairs, and each table had a few pairs of sunglasses that people could use to get into the spirit. Velma had found miniature paper umbrellas, which were meant for cocktails, to stick in the ice cream for added festivity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It looks like we’re ready for customers,” Anna said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSoon after, Jack’s friends arrived to set up, and Olivia led them over to their designated spot.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Judging from the way Olivia blushed when the band arrived, I’d say she has a crush on one of them,” Velma whispered in Anna’s ear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna smiled as they watched the teens interact. “Ah, young love. I wonder which one she likes.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Let’s go find out,” Velma said, pulling Anna to the stage area with a mischievous smile.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Anna, I’d like you to meet Aiden, Rob, and Owen,” Olivia said.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe three boys politely shook Anna’s hand. “Thanks for letting us perform,” Aiden said. “We won’t let you down.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You boys are going to be great,” Velma said.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I wish Caroline could be here,” Aiden said to Olivia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“She felt badly that she couldn’t come, but she already had plans with her aunt and cousins.” Olivia tapped her pocket. “But I promised I’d record a few songs and text them to her.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAiden smiled broadly. “Thanks, Olivia.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eOlivia’s eyes met Rob’s, and she looked down and blushed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“We’ll let you get to it,” Anna said. “People will be arriving in fifteen minutes.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“We’ll be ready,” Jack said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I guess we know which boy Olivia is crushing on,” Anna whispered after they walked away.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Definitely Rob.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna was so wrapped up in setting up the shop that she almost missed a phone call from an old friend from graduate school, Mary Beth. The two had studied counseling together back in the day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe pulled her phone from her pocket. “Mary Beth! Are you and your friend coming tonight?”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I hope so,” Mary Beth said. “But I’m not sure that I would call her a \u003ci\u003efriend\u003c\/i\u003e, exactly. She started off as a patient, but I am taking her under my wing until her situation resolves itself. You’ll understand more when you meet her. I’d really love to come so the two of you can talk, but it will depend on how Heather is feeling.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Fingers crossed,” Anna said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGuests began to arrive right at 6:00. Ethan and Olivia worked the front door, since they were best dressed for the occasion. They set up the ticket collection table a little off to the side, so they wouldn’t be in the direct path of the wintery cold air as people entered the shop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe Wiggins, wearing khaki shorts and flip flops, was one of the first to arrive, and his mood was as bright as his yellow shirt. After he had chatted with the staff and a few guests, he headed straight to the ice cream counter. “I’ll have two scoops of the mango ice cream,” Anna heard him say as she welcomed guests.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA half hour later, there was still no sign of Mary Beth and her mysterious friend, but Anna was thrilled when three of her besties in town, Sonja, Ruthie, and Rosie, arrived.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJeremy Russo came in right behind them. “Are you ready for our meeting with Sid Crenshaw on Monday?” he whispered when Anna went over to greet him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eLast month, Anna had finally been reunited with her Irish twin sister, Bella, who staged her own death five-and-a-half years ago. After nearly a year of searching, and with the help of Jeremy and Joe, they learned that Bella had witnessed a crime. She saw what she believed to be a man dumping the body of a young nurse, Rebecca Crenshaw. The killer had terrified Bella by stalking her and threatening to kill her and her loved ones if she went to the police. To escape her stalker and protect her family, Bella faked her death and relocated to Camden, Maine. Jeremy, who was a reporter at the \u003ci\u003eSeagull Cove Chronicle\u003c\/i\u003e, arranged a meeting for the three of them to speak with Rebecca’s father, Sid Crenshaw. That meeting was scheduled for Monday, only four days away.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m anxious to get this investigation underway,” Anna said. “The sooner Rebecca Crenshaw’s killer is behind bars, the sooner Bella can come home. But I have to admit, I’m equally excited to see Bella again at \u003ci\u003eCamden Manor\u003c\/i\u003e in two weeks.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna turned around after feeling a tug on her arm. It was Jack, who was taking a mango ice cream break between sets, standing next to a short, stocky man with a receding grey hairline. “Principal Ingersoll wanted to meet you,” Jack said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Please, call me Larry.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It’s nice to meet you,” Anna said.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“A few members of the staff from the high school are here tonight.” Larry pointed to a woman wearing blue jeans and a baby blue sweatshirt that said ‘Hampton Beach.’ “That’s Gayle Thompson. She teaches history. And over there is Melissa Potter, our newest math teacher. And Beverly Nordstrom, who teaches ninth and tenth grade English, is standing next to Gayle.” The two were deep in a conversation that included a few animated hand gestures, and Gayle was shaking her head and rolling her eyes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“They came to support the band,” Jack said proudly.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Olivia, Ethan, and the boys in the band have been talking up this party at school for the past few weeks, so we wanted to come out to show our support. What a great event to get people out of their house this time of year,” Larry said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m so happy you came,” Anna said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna started walking over to thank the teachers for coming, but the conversation still seemed intense, so she changed course and went to compliment the band on their stellar performance. “Be sure to get some ice cream before you start playing again,” Anna said to the boys.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eOlivia popped over and smiled at Rob. She gestured for them to follow her. “Come on. I’ll get your orders.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhile Anna watched them make their way to the ice cream counter, the front door opened. It was Mary Beth. Another woman hesitantly entered behind Mary Beth. Anna studied her for a moment. Her gold highlighted hair fell just above her shoulders, and her large brown eyes reticently scanned the room. When Mary Beth spotted Anna, she put a hand on the woman’s shoulders and gently guided her in Anna’s direction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It’s wonderful to see you,” Anna said, giving her old friend a warm hug.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You, as well. I’d like you to meet Heather.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna extended her hand. The woman seemed fragile as she smiled and politely shook Anna’s hand.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Anna and I went to graduate school together,” Mary Beth said. “Anna and her sister had a private counseling practice in Boston for many years. Since we happened to be in the area, I thought it might be nice for the two of you to chat.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“This party will be over at 8:00,” Anna said. “We’ll be able to talk privately then.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna looked into Heather’s vacant eyes as the woman forced a skeptical smile. “Thank you. I know you haven’t seen each other in a long time. I think I’ll get some ice cream and give the two of you a chance to catch up.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eBefore Anna or Mary Beth could respond, Heather was on her way to the ice cream counter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Do you want to fill me in on the situation, or would you prefer to let Heather do that?” Anna asked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It’s a story that will require your full attention, and you have your hands full right now. Why don’t we fill you in after the party? Besides, I want to make sure Heather doesn’t get too overwhelmed.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Okay. Things look to be winding down here, anyway. I have my entire staff here, so cleanup will be a snap. Then we’ll have the rest of the evening to talk.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna rejoined her customers in the dining room. The band had come up for one last song and the crowd was cheering them on, especially those who came from the high school.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen the band finished their final song, Anna thanked everyone for coming.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Should we make this party an annual event?” she asked the crowd.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHer guests responded with enthusiastic applause.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It’s settled then. I’ll see you all next year, at the Second Annual Tropical Beach Ice Cream Party.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter the guests trickled out, Anna and her staff made quick work of cleaning up the shop. As she deflated the palm tree, Anna spotted Casper sitting on the empty sidewalk and peering into the store. “That’s Casper,” Anna explained to Mary Beth and Heather. “He’s a feral cat who belongs to everyone in town and to nobody in particular at the same time. He’s probably looking for his nightly snack. With all the excitement, I forgot to give it to him tonight.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe opened the front door and beckoned him inside, but he didn’t move. Anna shrugged her shoulders. “You can sulk all you want, but it’s your loss, little guy.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eBefore Anna closed the door, Heather darted out and bent down to give the cat a little love. He purred and let her scratch his head. When she came back inside, he dashed away.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Casper likes you,” Anna said. “Maybe he was just looking for a little attention.” It was the first genuine smile she had seen on Heather’s face all night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter her employees left, Anna brewed some coffee, and the three women sat at a table in the middle of the dining room.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Mary Beth didn’t tell me anything about why she thought it would be a good idea for us to talk,” Anna said to Heather. “She just mentioned that you had been through something traumatic. How are you doing?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHeather shrugged her shoulders. “I guess I’m doing okay, considering I have no idea who I am.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51648422871357,"sku":"ICPAPERBACKS7-12","price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/IC7-12.png?v=1777426981"},{"product_id":"ice-cream-shop-mysteries-ultimate-value-bundle-books-1-12-ebooks","title":"Ice Cream Shop Mysteries Ultimate Value Bundle (Books 1-12), Ebooks","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003eBooks 1 through 12 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\"\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer paperbacks? \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003eIf you love quaint New England seaside towns, lovable characters, captivating mysteries, and ice cream parlors, you’ll love the \u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eBanana Slit \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 1)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eI Scream (Book 2)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eSalted Caramel Crime\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 3)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eHot Fudge Homicide\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 4)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003ePeppermint Stick-Up\u003c\/em\u003e (Books 5)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eFrozen Pudding Fiasco\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 6)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eMango Murder \u003c\/em\u003e(Book 7)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eWhipped Crime\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 8)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eCookie Dough Catastrophe \u003c\/em\u003e(Book 9)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eA Sprinkle of Death\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 10)\u003cbr\u003eTutti Frutti Tragedy (Book 11)\u003cbr\u003eA Dangerous Scoop (Book 12)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cimg height=\"17\" width=\"89\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“This is a great mystery with an amazing cast of characters and ice cream!”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Vickie M. Brown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“Good characters. Believable plot. Good, clean fun.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Amy Belle Schmidt\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“Angela Ryan's latest series is off to an amazing start! Once I started reading, I couldn't stop. Ice cream, a seacoast town, murder mystery and unanswered questions all make for a great series.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - MBF\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“Another cozy mystery series I’ve been hooked on!”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Victoria\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Love the characters and storyline. Very clean and a great cozy! Can't wait to read the next book.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Shannon S.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“This is a charming mystery that will keep you guessing until the end. It made me want to visit the quaint seaside resort and splurge on ice cream!”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Papa Trox\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“The search for answers had some twist and turns, leading to a surprise ending.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Kindle Customer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis product is an EBOOK and is compatible with any modern digital app and device, including:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKindle or Kindle App for phones\/tablets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApple Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGoogle Play Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNook\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKobo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNative e-readers on Apple and Android products\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicrosoft Surface and Tablets of all kinds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiPads, iPods, iPhones\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAndroid phones and devices\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer paperbacks? \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eBanana Slit: Chapter 1\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnnabel McBride swooned a little as the jaw-droppingly handsome Marcus Grady strode into her ice cream shop, with his black guitar bag swung over his broad shoulders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna wasn’t the type to become starstruck, but this man was a sight to behold. His light brown hair fell in layers above his ears, and his short, manicured beard gave him an irresistibly rugged look. Not to mention those smiling green eyes.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter a sharp elbow in the ribs from one of her employees, Velma Bryant, Anna managed to speak. “You must be Marcus. Welcome. It’s an honor to have you perform at my grand opening.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus flashed Anna a half smile. “It’s my pleasure, ma’am.” His voice was reminiscent of honey. For a moment, Anna forgot that she was about to open the doors to her ice cream shop, \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e, for the first time. She wasn’t sure if the fluttering in her stomach was nerves, or if it was the result of meeting Seagull Cove’s favorite son, who also happened to be a pop music star.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWho knew the ice cream business could be so interesting? If Anna had, perhaps she would have retired from her psychological counseling practice in Boston years ago. Of course, if she \u003ci\u003ehad\u003c\/i\u003e done it years ago, it would have been with her sister, Bella, by her side.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus winked at Anna. “I’m always happy to support a new business in my hometown. Besides, I’m on a break from touring, so I’m in town, anyway.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna had a feeling that, in addition to Marcus’s generosity, she also had Velma to thank for Marcus’s appearance. Velma had lived her whole life in Seagull Cove, and she couldn’t have been more well-connected if she were the town’s mayor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA man with stringy grey hair that fell just below his shoulders impatiently cleared his throat. Then he gave Anna a curt wave. “I’m Ted, Marcus’s sound guy. Where should I set up?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eTed was probably used to women losing their power of speech in front of Marcus. Not that Anna had any real interest in Marcus Grady, even if he had been anywhere near her league. Besides the fact that Marcus was in his late twenties and Anna was forty-four, she was not interested in a romantic relationship with \u003ci\u003eanyone\u003c\/i\u003e. All Anna wanted was to build her business and settle into her new life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWith her head down so that nobody would see her blushing like a teenager, Anna guided the two men through the large rectangular opening that led from the room that housed her ice cream counter to a larger dining room and gathering space. The far wall was lined with booths, and square wooden tables were scattered throughout the rest of the room. Anna imagined musicians, comedians, and open mic nights bringing the room alive. She smiled as she envisioned book clubs and other gatherings drawing the community into her shop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJust like Bella had dreamed of.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna accompanied Marcus and Ted to a vacant area against the back wall. “You can set up there.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eTed disappeared, presumably to fetch the sound equipment, while Marcus pulled out a mahogany guitar.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“That’s a beautiful instrument,” Anna said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus rested against a stool and strummed a few chords. “This hunk of wood is more than a musical instrument. She’s more like a faithful old friend.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Ted returned, a man who appeared to be in his early forties was with him. “I’m Donny Donaldson, Marcus’s manager. We spoke on the phone.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Yes,” Anna said, shaking Donny’s hand. “It’s nice to meet you in person. If there’s anything else you need, just let me know.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thanks. I think we’ve got it from here.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna glanced at the strawberry ice cream cone clock on the wall next to the counter. It was nearly time to open the doors. She wiped her palms on her black pants and took a deep breath. Anna had been anticipating this day ever since she made the decision to close her counseling practice and open \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e while visiting her cousin, Connie, in Florida.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Anna turned around to scoot behind the counter, Velma, along with two of her other employees, Jack and Olivia, stood watching her. Anna’s cheeks once again grew warm. “I’m sorry, I should have introduced you to Marcus. I guess I got a little tongue-tied.” Velma was her most experienced employee by far. She had worked for the former owners of the ice cream shop, which had previously been called \u003ci\u003eSeagull Cove\u003c\/i\u003e \u003ci\u003eCreamery. \u003c\/i\u003eJack and Olivia were finishing up their junior year at the local high school and needed summer work.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna and her team were as ready as they would ever be for the steady stream of customers that she prayed would come throughout the day.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIt had to if \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e was going to succeed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“No worries,” Jack said. “We see Marcus around all the time. It’s not a big deal for those of us who grew up in Seagull Cove.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWithin a half hour, the sound check was complete, and Anna was opening the doors to \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe kicked down the doorstop, allowing the cool, salty air to drift into the shop. The temperatures had climbed to the low seventies, which was unusually high for late-May. As far as Anna was concerned, it was nothing short of a miracle. Between it being Memorial Day weekend, the sunshine, and Marcus’s music - not to mention Anna’s amazing half-price banana splits - there should be no shortage of customers. She also hoped her free scoops for kids would draw families to her grand opening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna looked expectantly through the front window. Her storefront was mostly glass. It consisted of two large windows, each with one cafe-style table looking onto Main Street, with a glass door in the middle.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA young boy with red hair and freckles was Anna’s first customer. He sprinted toward the shop, sounding like a stampede of wild horses. He was a few yards ahead of a man, a woman, and a young girl, who Anna presumed were his parents and little sister. Anna hopped behind the counter to greet her first official customer. “Hello, there!”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe boy stood in front of the counter with his hands behind his back, looking up at Anna with a wide grin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Are you here for your free scoop?”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHe nodded his head vigorously. “Chocolate, please.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe boy’s family caught up to him while Anna fulfilled his request. The woman, who had the same red locks as the boy, ruffled his hair. “Frankie is here for the ice cream.” Then she lowered her voice. “As much as I love ice cream, I’m here more for Marcus.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna handed Frankie his chocolaty cone. Then Jack and Olivia took over, serving the rest of the family. Then the next customers. And the next. Most people took their sweet concoctions into the adjacent room, where Marcus was strumming his guitar and singing his way through his many hit songs.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna’s heart swelled as she watched her sister’s dream spring to life before her eyes. After so much planning and second-guessing herself, it had all been worth it. Anna hadn’t felt happier since before…well, before her life changed forever just four years, eight months, and three days ago. But today, nothing could steal her happiness.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna stood by the entrance greeting her customers, while Velma took their orders and rang them up, and Jack and Olivia scooped the ice cream and made more banana splits than they probably ever imagined they would make in one day.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter a couple of hours, the foot traffic slowed down. Anna made herself a cone with a scoop of salted caramel ice cream and brought it into the dining room to socialize with her customers. Salted caramel was definitely her favorite. Or was it mint chocolate chip? Or rocky road? Or cookie dough? Or butter pecan? Or rum raisin? Or… There were so many. She would have to increase her workouts if she was ever going to keep her waistline in check. But that was a problem for another day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhile Marcus masterfully entertained the crowd, Anna made the rounds, chatting with her patrons, who she hoped would become regular customers. Then she took a break and stood at the back of the room facing Marcus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA couple, who had been among the first few customers to arrive, sat at the table closest to Marcus. They looked to be in their late forties. The woman was wearing a Marcus Grady concert t-shirt and was staring at Marcus as if he were the only person in the world. Anna wondered if the man who was with her was her husband. He kept glancing at his watch and looking around the room, as if he were bored.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA few minutes later, Anna’s cousin, Gianna, along with her husband, Gary, and their five-year-old twins, arrived and sat with Anna’s parents, Judy and Al, and her brother, Albie. Albie’s sixteen-year-old daughter, Sophia, was unable to attend, because she had to work. Anna’s parents had recently retired to southern New Hampshire, which was about an hour away from Seagull Cove.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGianna gave Anna two thumbs up as she made her way to her family’s table. Anna went over to greet them, and after a few words of support from her family, Albie pointed to a table near Marcus. Anna couldn’t believe her eyes when she saw who was sitting there. It was Marcus’s girlfriend, Jasmine Hall, wearing an elegant floral lavender blouse over faded blue jeans. And Marcus was inviting her up to sing. What a treat to have two stars in her shop!\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe crowd encouraged Jasmine with ardent applause.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs Marcus sang his latest hit, “Jasmine’s Song,” he gazed into Jasmine’s eyes. A twinge of sadness crept over Anna as she remembered the only man whom she had ever felt that way about. She shook off her sorrow and reminded herself yet again that she was lucky to have ever loved anyone as much as she had loved Ian. Even if their time together had been short.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus finished the song to a standing ovation, then Jasmine joined him in a duet. Judging from the smiles on her customers’ faces, and her weary employees, the day couldn’t have gone any better.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Marcus’s performance neared its end, customers gradually filed out, and Ted packed up the sound equipment.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I can’t thank the two of you enough for helping to make this day a success,” Anna said to Marcus and Jasmine. “I can’t believe you wouldn’t let me pay you for your time. At least take some ice cream home.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’d better not if I want these jeans to fit,” Marcus said, patting his stomach. “And don’t mention it. I love performing for the people of my hometown. They always had faith in me, even when I was boy. But I am going to slip out as discreetly as possible, or I’ll be here all night.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Go ahead, honey,” Jasmine said. “I’ll stick around to sign a few autographs.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMarcus managed to slip out the front door without attracting too much attention.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA few minutes later, Anna’s family stood to leave, so she went over to say a quick goodbye. “Bella would be so proud,” Judy said. She could tell by her mother’s quivering lip that she was fighting back tears. Al silently nodded his agreement. The only time Al McBride was ever quiet was when he was choked up, so Anna knew it had been an emotional day for him, as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJasmine remained at her table for more than an hour signing autographs and posing for selfies, while Donny stuck around to monitor the never-ending line. It was obvious why Marcus had wanted to make a break for it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna wiped down the front tables and the ice cream counter, saying a prayer that its round stools would always be full of happy customers enjoying her famous banana splits - at least they were famous in the McBride family.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eVelma was speaking to two gentlemen whom Anna had seen in the dining room earlier. They were now seated at the counter, and Jack and Olivia were finally taking a break and enjoying a well-deserved scoop.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eVelma motioned for Anna to join them.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51649019380029,"sku":"ICB12","price":39.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/ICEB1-12.png?v=1777428614"},{"product_id":"ice-cream-shop-mysteries-upgraded-value-bundle-books-7-12-ebooks","title":"Ice Cream Shop Mysteries Upgraded Value Bundle (Books 7-12), Ebooks","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003eBooks 7 through 12 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\"\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer paperbacks? \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here. \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003eIf you love quaint New England seaside towns, lovable characters, captivating mysteries, and ice cream parlors, you’ll love the \u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eMango Murder \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 7)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eWhipped Crime (Book 8)\u003cbr\u003eCookie Dough Catastrophe\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 9)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eA Sprinkle of Death\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 10)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eTutti Frutti Tragedy\u003c\/em\u003e (Books 11)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eA Dangerous Scoop\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 12)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cimg height=\"17\" width=\"89\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I have never read anything by Angela K. Ryan before, OMG this was fantastic... So many suspects. Love the plot, great setting, and strong, intense, interesting characters.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e   - Margaret\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"This book had lots of twists and turns and it was actually quite the surprise when the culprit was revealed. Enjoy this book!\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e   - Shelly\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I highly recommend this to anyone who loves a good mystery.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e   - Rita\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"For me the ending was a complete surprise! A great story with familiar as well as new characters to embrace.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e   - Chris K.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"This book will keep you guessing to the end!\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e   - Jane\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis product is an EBOOK and is compatible with any modern digital app and device, including:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKindle or Kindle App for phones\/tablets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApple Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGoogle Play Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNook\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKobo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNative e-readers on Apple and Android products\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicrosoft Surface and Tablets of all kinds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiPads, iPods, iPhones\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAndroid phones and devices\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer paperbacks? \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here. \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eMango Murder: Chapter 1\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eVelma filled an inflatable palm tree using a hand pump and arranged it in the middle of a wooden sandbox, which Anna had set up by the front window in the dining room of her ice cream shop, \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I can’t believe how many people purchased tickets,” Anna said. “We are sold to capacity. One more person and we’d be violating fire code.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Wherever did you come up with the idea for a tropical beach ice cream party in the middle of February?” Velma asked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I thought Seagull Cove could use an event to help beat the winter blues and bring some business into the shop. February is such a slow month for a seaside ice cream shop.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I think it’s going to be a smashing success,” Velma said. “We should make it an annual event.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna and Velma laughed out loud when Olivia, Jack, and Ethan - Anna’s three high school employees - arrived dressed in the spirit of the evening. Jack sported blue and white swim trunks and a blue t-shirt under his long winter coat, and was carrying a red floatie, which he promptly put around his waist.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eEthan pulled back his coat to reveal his lime green and white Bermuda shorts, explaining that he found them in the back of one of his father’s bureau drawers, beneath some other ‘old man’ clothes. \u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eOlivia wore a bright sundress over a long-sleeved t-shirt and yoga pants with a red plastic Hawaiian lei around her neck.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You kids look fantastic,” Velma said.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAlong with Velma, Kathy and Mary were already helping Anna to set up the shop. It was all hands on deck for tonight’s party.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna pulled her employees together for an impromptu staff meeting. “I have plenty of tropical flavored ice cream, especially mango. We’ll need some of you to work behind the counter, a couple to collect tickets, and the rest can mill about and keep the dining room clean. I included all the ice cream you can eat in the price of the ticket, so I expect that the counter will be busy.” Anna winked at Jack. “We’ll let Jack focus on becoming famous with his band.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“My friends should be here any minute to set up. Thanks for giving us a chance to perform tonight. We’ve been rehearsing all week.” Anna had hired Jack’s friends, who had formed a garage band, to play beach-themed music.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“This is going to be so much fun,” Olivia said. “I can’t wait for everyone to arrive.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJack scanned the shop. “The store looks awesome. And thanks for turning up the heat. It makes it a lot easier to wear shorts in February.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIn addition to the sandbox and inflatable palm tree by the window, bright folding beach chairs were scattered among some of the regular chairs, and each table had a few pairs of sunglasses that people could use to get into the spirit. Velma had found miniature paper umbrellas, which were meant for cocktails, to stick in the ice cream for added festivity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It looks like we’re ready for customers,” Anna said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSoon after, Jack’s friends arrived to set up, and Olivia led them over to their designated spot.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Judging from the way Olivia blushed when the band arrived, I’d say she has a crush on one of them,” Velma whispered in Anna’s ear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna smiled as they watched the teens interact. “Ah, young love. I wonder which one she likes.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Let’s go find out,” Velma said, pulling Anna to the stage area with a mischievous smile.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Anna, I’d like you to meet Aiden, Rob, and Owen,” Olivia said.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe three boys politely shook Anna’s hand. “Thanks for letting us perform,” Aiden said. “We won’t let you down.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You boys are going to be great,” Velma said.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I wish Caroline could be here,” Aiden said to Olivia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“She felt badly that she couldn’t come, but she already had plans with her aunt and cousins.” Olivia tapped her pocket. “But I promised I’d record a few songs and text them to her.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAiden smiled broadly. “Thanks, Olivia.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eOlivia’s eyes met Rob’s, and she looked down and blushed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“We’ll let you get to it,” Anna said. “People will be arriving in fifteen minutes.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“We’ll be ready,” Jack said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I guess we know which boy Olivia is crushing on,” Anna whispered after they walked away.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Definitely Rob.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna was so wrapped up in setting up the shop that she almost missed a phone call from an old friend from graduate school, Mary Beth. The two had studied counseling together back in the day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe pulled her phone from her pocket. “Mary Beth! Are you and your friend coming tonight?”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I hope so,” Mary Beth said. “But I’m not sure that I would call her a \u003ci\u003efriend\u003c\/i\u003e, exactly. She started off as a patient, but I am taking her under my wing until her situation resolves itself. You’ll understand more when you meet her. I’d really love to come so the two of you can talk, but it will depend on how Heather is feeling.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Fingers crossed,” Anna said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGuests began to arrive right at 6:00. Ethan and Olivia worked the front door, since they were best dressed for the occasion. They set up the ticket collection table a little off to the side, so they wouldn’t be in the direct path of the wintery cold air as people entered the shop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe Wiggins, wearing khaki shorts and flip flops, was one of the first to arrive, and his mood was as bright as his yellow shirt. After he had chatted with the staff and a few guests, he headed straight to the ice cream counter. “I’ll have two scoops of the mango ice cream,” Anna heard him say as she welcomed guests.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA half hour later, there was still no sign of Mary Beth and her mysterious friend, but Anna was thrilled when three of her besties in town, Sonja, Ruthie, and Rosie, arrived.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJeremy Russo came in right behind them. “Are you ready for our meeting with Sid Crenshaw on Monday?” he whispered when Anna went over to greet him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eLast month, Anna had finally been reunited with her Irish twin sister, Bella, who staged her own death five-and-a-half years ago. After nearly a year of searching, and with the help of Jeremy and Joe, they learned that Bella had witnessed a crime. She saw what she believed to be a man dumping the body of a young nurse, Rebecca Crenshaw. The killer had terrified Bella by stalking her and threatening to kill her and her loved ones if she went to the police. To escape her stalker and protect her family, Bella faked her death and relocated to Camden, Maine. Jeremy, who was a reporter at the \u003ci\u003eSeagull Cove Chronicle\u003c\/i\u003e, arranged a meeting for the three of them to speak with Rebecca’s father, Sid Crenshaw. That meeting was scheduled for Monday, only four days away.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m anxious to get this investigation underway,” Anna said. “The sooner Rebecca Crenshaw’s killer is behind bars, the sooner Bella can come home. But I have to admit, I’m equally excited to see Bella again at \u003ci\u003eCamden Manor\u003c\/i\u003e in two weeks.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna turned around after feeling a tug on her arm. It was Jack, who was taking a mango ice cream break between sets, standing next to a short, stocky man with a receding grey hairline. “Principal Ingersoll wanted to meet you,” Jack said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Please, call me Larry.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It’s nice to meet you,” Anna said.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“A few members of the staff from the high school are here tonight.” Larry pointed to a woman wearing blue jeans and a baby blue sweatshirt that said ‘Hampton Beach.’ “That’s Gayle Thompson. She teaches history. And over there is Melissa Potter, our newest math teacher. And Beverly Nordstrom, who teaches ninth and tenth grade English, is standing next to Gayle.” The two were deep in a conversation that included a few animated hand gestures, and Gayle was shaking her head and rolling her eyes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“They came to support the band,” Jack said proudly.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Olivia, Ethan, and the boys in the band have been talking up this party at school for the past few weeks, so we wanted to come out to show our support. What a great event to get people out of their house this time of year,” Larry said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m so happy you came,” Anna said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna started walking over to thank the teachers for coming, but the conversation still seemed intense, so she changed course and went to compliment the band on their stellar performance. “Be sure to get some ice cream before you start playing again,” Anna said to the boys.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eOlivia popped over and smiled at Rob. She gestured for them to follow her. “Come on. I’ll get your orders.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhile Anna watched them make their way to the ice cream counter, the front door opened. It was Mary Beth. Another woman hesitantly entered behind Mary Beth. Anna studied her for a moment. Her gold highlighted hair fell just above her shoulders, and her large brown eyes reticently scanned the room. When Mary Beth spotted Anna, she put a hand on the woman’s shoulders and gently guided her in Anna’s direction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It’s wonderful to see you,” Anna said, giving her old friend a warm hug.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You, as well. I’d like you to meet Heather.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna extended her hand. The woman seemed fragile as she smiled and politely shook Anna’s hand.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Anna and I went to graduate school together,” Mary Beth said. “Anna and her sister had a private counseling practice in Boston for many years. Since we happened to be in the area, I thought it might be nice for the two of you to chat.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“This party will be over at 8:00,” Anna said. “We’ll be able to talk privately then.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna looked into Heather’s vacant eyes as the woman forced a skeptical smile. “Thank you. I know you haven’t seen each other in a long time. I think I’ll get some ice cream and give the two of you a chance to catch up.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eBefore Anna or Mary Beth could respond, Heather was on her way to the ice cream counter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Do you want to fill me in on the situation, or would you prefer to let Heather do that?” Anna asked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It’s a story that will require your full attention, and you have your hands full right now. Why don’t we fill you in after the party? Besides, I want to make sure Heather doesn’t get too overwhelmed.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Okay. Things look to be winding down here, anyway. I have my entire staff here, so cleanup will be a snap. Then we’ll have the rest of the evening to talk.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna rejoined her customers in the dining room. The band had come up for one last song and the crowd was cheering them on, especially those who came from the high school.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen the band finished their final song, Anna thanked everyone for coming.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Should we make this party an annual event?” she asked the crowd.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHer guests responded with enthusiastic applause.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It’s settled then. I’ll see you all next year, at the Second Annual Tropical Beach Ice Cream Party.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter the guests trickled out, Anna and her staff made quick work of cleaning up the shop. As she deflated the palm tree, Anna spotted Casper sitting on the empty sidewalk and peering into the store. “That’s Casper,” Anna explained to Mary Beth and Heather. “He’s a feral cat who belongs to everyone in town and to nobody in particular at the same time. He’s probably looking for his nightly snack. With all the excitement, I forgot to give it to him tonight.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe opened the front door and beckoned him inside, but he didn’t move. Anna shrugged her shoulders. “You can sulk all you want, but it’s your loss, little guy.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eBefore Anna closed the door, Heather darted out and bent down to give the cat a little love. He purred and let her scratch his head. When she came back inside, he dashed away.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Casper likes you,” Anna said. “Maybe he was just looking for a little attention.” It was the first genuine smile she had seen on Heather’s face all night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter her employees left, Anna brewed some coffee, and the three women sat at a table in the middle of the dining room.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Mary Beth didn’t tell me anything about why she thought it would be a good idea for us to talk,” Anna said to Heather. “She just mentioned that you had been through something traumatic. How are you doing?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHeather shrugged her shoulders. “I guess I’m doing okay, considering I have no idea who I am.”\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51649037467965,"sku":"ICB7-12","price":24.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/ICEB7-12.png?v=1777430127"},{"product_id":"cape-cod-cozy-mysteries-paperback-bundle-books-1-6-paperbacks","title":"Cape Cod Cozy Mysteries Paperback Bundle (Books 1-6), Paperbacks","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBooks 1-4 in the\u003cem\u003e Cape Cod Cozy Mysteries.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003ePrefer ebooks? \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you love quaint seaside towns, endearing characters, and mysteries with lots of twists and turns, you’ll love the \u003cem\u003eCape Cod Cozy Mysteries\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"a-unordered-list a-vertical\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ci\u003eCorpse at a Cape Cod Inn \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 1)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ci\u003eSlain in the Sand \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 2)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eNor'easter Nightmare\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (Book 3)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eDeath by Driftwood\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 4)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA Whale of a Murder (Book 5)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLobster Dinner Death (Book 6)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"line-height: 110%; tab-stops: .25in .5in .75in 1.0in 1.25in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"22\" width=\"115\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" alt=\"five stars\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"line-height: 110%; tab-stops: .25in .5in .75in 1.0in 1.25in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“\u003cspan\u003eI just love all of Angela Ryan's books and this new series certainly did not disappoint. I can't wait to see what happens next especially if\/when 'Heather' remembers who she is.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Maria BF\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“\u003cspan\u003eI have never read anything by Angela K. Ryan before, OMG this was fantastic!!\u003c\/span\u003e”\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Margaret\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“\u003cspan\u003eAngela Ryan has created a delightful new town and cast of characters.\u003c\/span\u003e”\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Diane\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003eThis first in a new series book has everything I want in a cozy mystery. The well-written book has believable, likable characters. A mystery that has multiple possible solutions.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIt held my interest from the beginning through to the end. \u003c\/span\u003e”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Kindle Customer\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';\"\u003e\"\u003cspan\u003eThis was a fun and fast-paced cozy mystery.\u003c\/span\u003e”\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';\"\u003e   - Paula\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“\u003cspan\u003eA lot of twists \u0026amp; turns that won’t disappoint!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Shari\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003ePrefer ebooks? \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eChapter 1\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHeather tied back her shoulder length, golden blond hair as the bus she had boarded in Seagull Cove, Massachusetts, cruised across the Sagamore Bridge. She glanced below at the dark, grey waters of the Cape Cod Canal.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThey appeared as mysterious as her past.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe leaned back against the headrest, closed her eyes, and told herself that she would be okay. She had come through difficult situations before. At least, she assumed she had. She \u003ci\u003emust\u003c\/i\u003e have. Actually, she had no idea.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHeather mindlessly stared at the snow-kissed trees on the side of Route 3 for the next forty minutes, until the bus driver finally announced her stop. “Sand Dune Shores,” he said in a monotone voice as he parked in front of one of the four bus stop shelters in the terminal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHeather scanned the platform, where a few folks who were bundled against the frigid wind stood waiting. It was the last day of February, and the sky was as grey as Heather’s mood. She searched the group for Mary Beth Nelson, who had promised to pick her up when she arrived in her new hometown. Mary Beth, the psychiatrist who treated her after her recent car accident, was also her only friend in town. She had arranged for Heather to work in the gift shop of the \u003ci\u003eSand Dune Inn\u003c\/i\u003e in exchange for room, board, and a small salary. Without Mary Beth’s assistance, Heather had no doubt that she would be homeless.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen she didn’t see Mary Beth, she again scanned the group gathered beneath the shelter. Mary Beth definitely wasn’t there. Surely she would be along at any moment. A familiar wave of loneliness and fear swept over Heather as she quickly tried to formulate a Plan B. She didn’t have a cellphone to use a ridesharing app, but she could probably ask someone to call her a taxi. Surely any taxi driver would know where the \u003ci\u003eSand Dune Inn\u003c\/i\u003e was located.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe exited the bus and retrieved her backpack from the luggage compartment. The backpack, along with all her possessions, had been donated to her from some kind folks at Mary Beth’s church when she left the hospital ten days before. She had no memory of anything before waking up in the Emergency Department of \u003ci\u003eCape Cod General\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe didn’t even know her real name.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe doctors had informed Heather that in rare cases, a person’s memory never returned after a trauma such as the car accident that Heather had survived. Since they had to call her something, one of the nurses suggested she use the name ‘Heather,’ because she had fallen in love with a painting at the hospital of some heather flowers growing alongside a boardwalk, which led to the beach. It seemed as good a name as any, so Heather adopted it as her own.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe hoped it was a solution to a problem that was only temporary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHeather had spent the previous ten days gathering her thoughts and courage in the quaint seaside town of Seagull Cove, located on the North Shore of Boston. Mary Beth had taken her to Boston for a second opinion regarding her amnesia, so Heather had stayed with Anna McBride, a former colleague of Mary Beth’s. Heather had hoped in vain that her memory would return while she was there.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eNow, it was time to face her new normal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA man who appeared to be in his early forties with sandy blond hair and skeptical blue-grey eyes halfheartedly waved in her direction. “Heather?” he asked, with a forced smile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eDespite his less-than-warm greeting, she let out a sigh of relief that \u003ci\u003esomeone\u003c\/i\u003e had come to pick her up.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“My name is Jake Harding. Mary Beth asked me to bring you to the inn. She was called into the hospital for an emergency, but she’ll be by as soon as she can.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHeather did her best to express her gratitude with a smile, despite her disappointment at not finding Mary Beth at the terminal. “Thank you for coming.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHe replied with a curt nod.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJake opened the back door to his grey Jeep Wrangler so she could toss her backpack into the backseat. Then, she sat in the passenger side of the vehicle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“My parents own the \u003ci\u003eSand Dune Inn\u003c\/i\u003e,” he said, as he turned onto the main road.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m very grateful that they hired me to work in the gift shop.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“They have huge hearts.” He looked straight into her eyes and held her gaze for a moment. “I live nearby. I stop by to check on them \u003ci\u003eevery\u003c\/i\u003e day. Sometimes more than once.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGreat. Here was one more person who believed that she harbored sinister intentions. Not that she could blame him. After all, she \u003ci\u003ehad\u003c\/i\u003e been in a car accident while riding with a recent ex-convict. She hadn’t been carrying any identification, and she had no idea what she was doing with the man, whose name, as she learned from Detective Rick Blaney, was John Seewald. She had been told they had reservations to stay at the \u003ci\u003eSand Dune Inn\u003c\/i\u003e in two separate rooms, and that he was from Des Moines, Iowa. Unfortunately, he didn’t survive the car accident.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe sound of sirens approaching from behind pierced the awkward silence that followed. Jake glanced in the rearview mirror and pulled over to allow the paramedics to pass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA few minutes later, Jake made a right off Route 28 onto Cranberry Avenue and entered a quaint neighborhood lined with cottages covered in weathered grey shingles. There were a few larger, more modern homes scattered among them. Then, he turned left onto Starboard Lane, which contained four cottages on the lefthand side, followed by a majestic inn just a few yards from a towering sand dune. In between the cottages on the right were glimpses of the ocean dotted with whitecaps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eFor the first time since leaving Seagull Cove, a feeling of peace spread across Heather’s chest. She could have hugged Mary Beth for arranging for her to stay at such a tranquil place. Heather was so caught up with her first impressions of her new neighborhood that she almost didn’t notice the two police cars and the ambulance parked in front of the inn.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eBut Jake had seen them. He slammed on his brakes and parked on the street, rather than turning onto the driveway, which led to a small parking lot to the left of the inn. “My parents!” he cried, racing from his car. He slammed the door behind him and practically leapt up the walkway that led to the inn, ignoring the crime scene tape that was wrapped around the inn’s perimeter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHeather exited the car and watched Jake climb the wooden steps of the front porch and disappear through a blue door.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eShould she follow him into the inn despite the yellow tape, or stay outside in the cold?\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eNot sure what else to do, she grabbed her backpack from the backseat, swung it onto her shoulders, and ventured further down the street to where she could see the side yard. That was where most of the activity was taking place.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe stopped short when she spotted the cause of the commotion. On a patch of frozen ground that separated the majestic sand dune from the inn’s wraparound porch, a pale young woman lay motionless next to a small pool of blood.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHeather got as close as the tape would permit. Next to the body was a yard ornament in the form of a white, red, and navy lighthouse. On the ground next to the lighthouse was what appeared to be a necklace made of silver or white gold.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe towering sand dune to Heather’s right, which looked as if it had protected the inn from many a storm, seemed to stand in silent anger at the scene it had just witnessed.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe only silver lining Heather could see was that the ambulance wasn’t there for one of Jake’s parents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHeather watched the flurry of activity taking place around the building as she started to walk back to the driveway. A police officer approached her. “Ma’am, did you know the victim?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eDid I know the victim? I don’t even know myself.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51650633662781,"sku":"CCPAPERBACKS1-6","price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/CCPB1-6.png?v=1777481934"},{"product_id":"cape-cod-cozy-mysteries-ebook-bundle-books-1-5-ebooks","title":"Cape Cod Cozy Mysteries Ebook Bundle (Books 1-5), Ebooks","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBooks 1-5 in the\u003cem\u003e Cape Cod Cozy Mysteries.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer paperbacks?\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/products\/cape-cod-cozy-mysteries-paperback-bundle-books-1-4-paperbacks\" title=\"Cape Cod Cozy Mysteries Books 1-4\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e Click here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/products\/cape-cod-cozy-mysteries-paperback-bundle-books-1-3-paperbacks\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you love quaint seaside towns, endearing characters, and mysteries with lots of twists and turns, you’ll love the \u003cem\u003eCape Cod Cozy Mysteries\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"a-unordered-list a-vertical\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ci\u003eCorpse at a Cape Cod Inn \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 1)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ci\u003eSlain in the Sand \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 2)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eNor'easter Nightmare\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (Book 3)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eDeath by Driftwood\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 4)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-list-item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA Whale of a Murder (Book 5)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"line-height: 110%; tab-stops: .25in .5in .75in 1.0in 1.25in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"22\" width=\"115\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" alt=\"five stars\" style=\"margin-bottom: 8px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"line-height: 110%; tab-stops: .25in .5in .75in 1.0in 1.25in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“\u003cspan\u003eI just love all of Angela Ryan's books and this new series certainly did not disappoint. I can't wait to see what happens next especially if\/when 'Heather' remembers who she is.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Maria BF\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“\u003cspan\u003eI have never read anything by Angela K. Ryan before, OMG this was fantastic!!\u003c\/span\u003e”\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Margaret\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“\u003cspan\u003eAngela Ryan has created a delightful new town and cast of characters.\u003c\/span\u003e”\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Diane\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003eThis first in a new series book has everything I want in a cozy mystery. The well-written book has believable, likable characters. A mystery that has multiple possible solutions.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIt held my interest from the beginning through to the end. \u003c\/span\u003e”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Kindle Customer\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';\"\u003e\"\u003cspan\u003eThis was a fun and fast-paced cozy mystery.\u003c\/span\u003e”\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';\"\u003e   - Paula\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e“\u003cspan\u003eA lot of twists \u0026amp; turns that won’t disappoint!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: #0f1111; background: white;\"\u003e   - Shari\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis product is an EBOOK and is compatible with any modern digital app and device, including:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKindle or Kindle App for phones\/tablets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApple Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGoogle Play Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNook\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKobo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNative e-readers on Apple and Android products\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicrosoft Surface and Tablets of all kinds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiPads, iPods, iPhones\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAndroid phones and devices\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer paperbacks?\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/products\/cape-cod-cozy-mysteries-paperback-bundle-books-1-4-paperbacks\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e Click here. \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eChapter 1\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHeather tied back her shoulder length, golden blond hair as the bus she had boarded in Seagull Cove, Massachusetts, cruised across the Sagamore Bridge. She glanced below at the dark, grey waters of the Cape Cod Canal.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThey appeared as mysterious as her past.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe leaned back against the headrest, closed her eyes, and told herself that she would be okay. She had come through difficult situations before. At least, she assumed she had. She \u003ci\u003emust\u003c\/i\u003e have. Actually, she had no idea.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHeather mindlessly stared at the snow-kissed trees on the side of Route 3 for the next forty minutes, until the bus driver finally announced her stop. “Sand Dune Shores,” he said in a monotone voice as he parked in front of one of the four bus stop shelters in the terminal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHeather scanned the platform, where a few folks who were bundled against the frigid wind stood waiting. It was the last day of February, and the sky was as grey as Heather’s mood. She searched the group for Mary Beth Nelson, who had promised to pick her up when she arrived in her new hometown. Mary Beth, the psychiatrist who treated her after her recent car accident, was also her only friend in town. She had arranged for Heather to work in the gift shop of the \u003ci\u003eSand Dune Inn\u003c\/i\u003e in exchange for room, board, and a small salary. Without Mary Beth’s assistance, Heather had no doubt that she would be homeless.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen she didn’t see Mary Beth, she again scanned the group gathered beneath the shelter. Mary Beth definitely wasn’t there. Surely she would be along at any moment. A familiar wave of loneliness and fear swept over Heather as she quickly tried to formulate a Plan B. She didn’t have a cellphone to use a ridesharing app, but she could probably ask someone to call her a taxi. Surely any taxi driver would know where the \u003ci\u003eSand Dune Inn\u003c\/i\u003e was located.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe exited the bus and retrieved her backpack from the luggage compartment. The backpack, along with all her possessions, had been donated to her from some kind folks at Mary Beth’s church when she left the hospital ten days before. She had no memory of anything before waking up in the Emergency Department of \u003ci\u003eCape Cod General\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe didn’t even know her real name.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe doctors had informed Heather that in rare cases, a person’s memory never returned after a trauma such as the car accident that Heather had survived. Since they had to call her something, one of the nurses suggested she use the name ‘Heather,’ because she had fallen in love with a painting at the hospital of some heather flowers growing alongside a boardwalk, which led to the beach. It seemed as good a name as any, so Heather adopted it as her own.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe hoped it was a solution to a problem that was only temporary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHeather had spent the previous ten days gathering her thoughts and courage in the quaint seaside town of Seagull Cove, located on the North Shore of Boston. Mary Beth had taken her to Boston for a second opinion regarding her amnesia, so Heather had stayed with Anna McBride, a former colleague of Mary Beth’s. Heather had hoped in vain that her memory would return while she was there.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eNow, it was time to face her new normal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA man who appeared to be in his early forties with sandy blond hair and skeptical blue-grey eyes halfheartedly waved in her direction. “Heather?” he asked, with a forced smile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eDespite his less-than-warm greeting, she let out a sigh of relief that \u003ci\u003esomeone\u003c\/i\u003e had come to pick her up.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“My name is Jake Harding. Mary Beth asked me to bring you to the inn. She was called into the hospital for an emergency, but she’ll be by as soon as she can.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHeather did her best to express her gratitude with a smile, despite her disappointment at not finding Mary Beth at the terminal. “Thank you for coming.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHe replied with a curt nod.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJake opened the back door to his grey Jeep Wrangler so she could toss her backpack into the backseat. Then, she sat in the passenger side of the vehicle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“My parents own the \u003ci\u003eSand Dune Inn\u003c\/i\u003e,” he said, as he turned onto the main road.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m very grateful that they hired me to work in the gift shop.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“They have huge hearts.” He looked straight into her eyes and held her gaze for a moment. “I live nearby. I stop by to check on them \u003ci\u003eevery\u003c\/i\u003e day. Sometimes more than once.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGreat. Here was one more person who believed that she harbored sinister intentions. Not that she could blame him. After all, she \u003ci\u003ehad\u003c\/i\u003e been in a car accident while riding with a recent ex-convict. She hadn’t been carrying any identification, and she had no idea what she was doing with the man, whose name, as she learned from Detective Rick Blaney, was John Seewald. She had been told they had reservations to stay at the \u003ci\u003eSand Dune Inn\u003c\/i\u003e in two separate rooms, and that he was from Des Moines, Iowa. Unfortunately, he didn’t survive the car accident.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe sound of sirens approaching from behind pierced the awkward silence that followed. Jake glanced in the rearview mirror and pulled over to allow the paramedics to pass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA few minutes later, Jake made a right off Route 28 onto Cranberry Avenue and entered a quaint neighborhood lined with cottages covered in weathered grey shingles. There were a few larger, more modern homes scattered among them. Then, he turned left onto Starboard Lane, which contained four cottages on the lefthand side, followed by a majestic inn just a few yards from a towering sand dune. In between the cottages on the right were glimpses of the ocean dotted with whitecaps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eFor the first time since leaving Seagull Cove, a feeling of peace spread across Heather’s chest. She could have hugged Mary Beth for arranging for her to stay at such a tranquil place. Heather was so caught up with her first impressions of her new neighborhood that she almost didn’t notice the two police cars and the ambulance parked in front of the inn.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eBut Jake had seen them. He slammed on his brakes and parked on the street, rather than turning onto the driveway, which led to a small parking lot to the left of the inn. “My parents!” he cried, racing from his car. He slammed the door behind him and practically leapt up the walkway that led to the inn, ignoring the crime scene tape that was wrapped around the inn’s perimeter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHeather exited the car and watched Jake climb the wooden steps of the front porch and disappear through a blue door.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eShould she follow him into the inn despite the yellow tape, or stay outside in the cold?\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eNot sure what else to do, she grabbed her backpack from the backseat, swung it onto her shoulders, and ventured further down the street to where she could see the side yard. That was where most of the activity was taking place.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe stopped short when she spotted the cause of the commotion. On a patch of frozen ground that separated the majestic sand dune from the inn’s wraparound porch, a pale young woman lay motionless next to a small pool of blood.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHeather got as close as the tape would permit. Next to the body was a yard ornament in the form of a white, red, and navy lighthouse. On the ground next to the lighthouse was what appeared to be a necklace made of silver or white gold.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe towering sand dune to Heather’s right, which looked as if it had protected the inn from many a storm, seemed to stand in silent anger at the scene it had just witnessed.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe only silver lining Heather could see was that the ambulance wasn’t there for one of Jake’s parents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHeather watched the flurry of activity taking place around the building as she started to walk back to the driveway. A police officer approached her. “Ma’am, did you know the victim?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eDid I know the victim? I don’t even know myself.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51650641494333,"sku":"CCEBOOKS1-5","price":21.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/CCEB1-5.png?v=1777482366"},{"product_id":"sapphire-beach-upgraded-value-bundle-books-7-12-ebooks","title":"Sapphire Beach Upgraded Value Bundle (Books 7-12), Ebooks","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003ePrequel through Book 6 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\"\u003eSapphire Beach Cozy Mystery Series\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrefer paperbacks?\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" title=\"Click here for paperbacks.\" style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e Click here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHurricanes and Homicide\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e(Book 7)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eKayaks and Killers\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e(Book 8)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eFriends, Foes and Felonies\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e(Book 9)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003ePassion and Poison\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 10)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eDaffodils and Death\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 11)\u003cbr\u003e\u003ci\u003eMarriage and Mischief \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 12)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" width=\"89\" height=\"17\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"Such an amazing book! The storm wasn’t the only thing keeping me on the edge of my seat. I couldn’t put it down till the end. I\u003cspan\u003e was \u003c\/span\u003every surprised to find out who the killer turned out to be. This book was wonderful from beginning to end.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"A wonderful book about old friends and new friends helping each other find out the answers. Looking forward to seeing Connie and Zach taking the next steps in their relationship.\" \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"The plot thickens! A murder mystery with lots of suspects that will keep you guessing till the end. Well-written with a wonderful variety of characters. Anyone that likes to read will love this book.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis product is an EBOOK and is compatible with any modern digital app and device, including:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKindle or Kindle App for phones\/tablets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApple Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGoogle Play Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNook\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKobo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNative e-readers on Apple and Android products\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicrosoft Surface and Tablets of all kinds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiPads, iPods, iPhones\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAndroid phones and devices\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrefer paperbacks? \u003ca style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" title=\"Prefer Ebooks? Click here!\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/products\/hurricanes-and-homicide-book-7-paperback\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHurricanes and Homicide: Chapter 1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Finally!” Connie Petretta said to her friend and employee, Grace Jenkins, as she placed her hammer back in the toolbox. “All of the windows are boarded up, and Just Jewelry is as ready for Hurricane Emery as it ever will be.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAt least Connie hoped so.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMeteorologists had predicted that Emery would be a Category 3 hurricane and that the winds would start to pick up later that afternoon. The Gulf-front town in southwest Florida Connie had called home for the past year-and-a-half would be in the thick of the storm in a few days. But judging from the steadily increasing winds and rain, Hurricane Emery was arriving more quickly than anticipated.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAugust was going out with a boom.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrace peeked her head out the front door. “The winds are getting stronger, and county officials just issued a shelter-in-place order. We need to get home right away and hunker down.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie and Grace lived next door to one another in their condominium building, which was called Palm Paradise. They had been neighbors since Connie’s Aunt Concetta had passed away, leaving Connie her Gulf-front condo.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGinger, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel she unofficially inherited along with her aunt’s condo, looked up at Connie with her trusting brown eyes. She was patiently watching her master from her doggie bed at the back of the store. “I agree. Ginger looks like she wants to get home, too.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Before we head out, let’s check on Ruby,” Grace said, pulling on her yellow rain slicker and slipping the hood over her head.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie did the same with her own powder blue slicker, then she picked up Ginger and protectively tucked her beneath her jacket while she followed Grace next door to Ruby’s souvenir shop. Ruby and one of her employees, Daisy, were about to leave.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“We’ve battened down the hatches,” Ruby said when she saw Connie and Grace. “It’s time to get out of here. I don’t like the looks of this storm.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo sooner did the words come from Ruby’s lips than a peal of thunder sounded, and Ginger trembled in Connie’s arms.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“We just wanted to make sure you didn’t need any help before we left,” Grace said, “but it looks like you have everything under control.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Yes, Mickey called this morning to check on us, but I told him Daisy and I could handle it. I think he’s afraid of losing his properties to the storm before he has a chance to unload them.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMickey Miranda owned the buildings that housed both Connie’s and Ruby’s shops, as well as several other commercial properties in the downtown area. He and his wife, Susan, had been up north visiting Mickey’s brother for the summer, and had just returned to Sapphire Beach the day before. Much to the chagrin of Connie and Ruby, Mickey was planning to sell the properties as soon as he got back in town. The women were concerned that the new owners would require them to move when their leases expired in January and neither wanted that. They loved being neighbors and enjoyed a prime location, which was just a couple of blocks from the beach.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBesides, before opening her jewelry shop, Connie had spent a good chunk of her savings renovating the store. The last thing she wanted was to start over in another location.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBut there was no time to dwell on that. They needed to get safely home and out of the hurricane.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“We’re anxious to get out of here, too,” Grace said. “We’ll see you on the flip side.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAfter Ruby locked up her shop, she and Daisy hopped into their cars and drove away.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Grace, get into the car,” Connie said, unlocking her silver Jetta with her fob key. “I’ll lock up the shop really quickly, so we can get out of here.” Since they lived right next door to each other and they hadn’t planned to stay long at the store, Connie and Grace took one car that morning.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrace slid into the passenger seat, and Connie locked the door to the store. She stroked Ginger’s silky back. “Don’t worry, sweet girl. I’ll have you home in no time.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSince Connie had parked her car directly in front of Just Jewelry, she put Ginger down on the ground. Then she said a quick prayer that her beloved shop would remain undamaged by the impending hurricane.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrace pulled her hood over her head and exited the front seat to open the back door for Ginger.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie laughed at the sight of Grace, her yellow hood pulled tightly around her face, dripping with water.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrace gave Connie a thumbs up, and Connie nudged Ginger in the direction of the car.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJust as Ginger was about to jump into the backseat, another crash of thunder sounded in the distance. A terrified Ginger bolted away from the car and down the alley that led to the back of Connie’s store.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Oh no!” Connie said to Grace. “The poor dog is terrified. I’ll be right back.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eShe was about to sprint after Ginger when she heard a voice yelling from across the street.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Connie, stop!”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eShe turned around and through the torrential rains, saw Gallagher waving his arms and running towards her. “You need to get home. They’re telling everyone to get off the roads right away.” Gallagher was the owner of Gallagher’s Tropical Shack, the thatched-roof restaurant across the street from Just Jewelry.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Not without Ginger,” Connie yelled.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“You get Grace home. I’ll find Ginger and drop her off at Palm Paradise on my way home.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie started to protest, but Gallagher had already disappeared down the alley.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“I’ll wait for you at the front entrance,” Connie yelled into the air, not sure if he would even hear her over the wind and rain. She was tempted to run after him, but Gallagher was a man of his word, and Connie really needed to get Grace home. If anything ever happened to Grace because Connie had kept her out in the storm too long, she would never forgive herself.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDrenched to the bone, Connie got into the driver’s seat. She glanced one more time at Just Jewelry before starting the car. “Let’s hope our little shop is still standing the next time we see it.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHurricane Emery was the first major storm since Connie moved to Sapphire Beach. She was confident that her home would remain safe, since Palm Paradise had been built after Hurricane Andrew. In 1992, Hurricane Andrew, which was a Category 5 storm when it hit landfall, had destroyed about sixty-three thousand homes and damaged another hundred thousand. His 175 miles-per-hour winds had flattened entire neighborhoods, leading to stringent building codes, so Connie knew her home was solid. But she wasn’t as confident about her shop. Even a Category 3 could do some serious damage to older structures.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie and Grace had spent yesterday bringing all of Connie’s inventory home and storing it away, preparing for a worst-case scenario. After all the hard work Connie and her Fair Trade artisans put into creating their jewelry pieces, she wasn’t taking any chances.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe one-mile stretch that separated Connie’s shop from her home was already treacherous. Visibility was poor and many leaves and small branches littered Sapphire Beach Boulevard. About halfway home, they passed a car accident and could hear an ambulance approaching in the distance. Connie drove in silence, not daring to take her attention off the road.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Look, your knuckles are white from gripping the wheel so tightly,” Grace said as Connie punched in the pass code to gain entrance into the underground garage.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRelieved to be home, Connie pulled into her designated parking space, then they climbed the stairs into the elegant lobby, waving at Gertrude, who was anxiously watching her neighbors return to safety. Gertrude was an octogenarian who lived in Palm Paradise and with whom Connie had become friends. She was also the great-aunt of Elyse Miller, one of Connie’s best friends in Sapphire Beach.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie and Grace waited by the front entrance and watched through the glass double doors for Gallagher and Ginger. Jessica, the management company employee who kept office hours on the premises, also stood watching the parking lot with a young boy.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“You two made it back just in the nick of time,” Jessica said. “The authorities are requesting that everyone get off the road as quickly as possible. It looks like Hurricane Emery is coming sooner than anticipated.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrace explained how Ginger ran off and that Gallagher would be arriving any minute to drop her off.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“He’d better hurry,” the boy said. “Mom and I are stuck here until the storm is over.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“You must be the famous Robbie,” Connie said. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you. I’ve heard so much about you from your mom. I’m Connie, and this is Grace.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Hi,” Robbie said.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“This is Concetta’s niece,” Jessica explained. “Concetta is the kind woman who used to bake us those Italian cookies all the time.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Do you bake cookies, too?” Robbie asked.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Not nearly as well as my aunt used to. But since it looks like we’re going to be stuck indoors for the next few days, how about if I promise to give it a shot? Maybe you can help, since you’re staying here, too.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Deal,” Robbie said.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAfter what felt like an eternity, Gallagher finally arrived in his beat-up old Honda. He pulled up a few yards from the door and ran toward Connie holding a trembling and wet Ginger in his arms.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Your delivery, Ma’am,” Gallagher said, handing her to Connie.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGinger licked Connie’s face and wagged her tail, clearly excited to be reunited with her owner.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie gave her a squeeze, then hugged Gallagher. “Thank goodness. I would never have forgiven myself if anything happened to you or Ginger.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie placed the dog on the floor, and Robbie bent down to scratch Ginger’s wet head.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAs Robbie greeted Ginger, a man with salt-and-pepper hair who appeared to be in his late fifties came running from the outdoor parking lot, his arms loaded with soggy brown paper grocery bags.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEveryone stepped back so he could take shelter.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe three women couldn’t help but notice that his bags were filled with ice cream, chips, and cookies.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe man chuckled. “I figured we might be trapped inside for a while, and I don’t like to be caught without snacks.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“A man after my own heart,” Grace said.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Tony, why on earth didn’t you park in the underground garage?” Jessica asked.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEach unit had an assigned underground parking spot, as well as one in the outdoor parking lot.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTony shrugged his wet shoulders. “I just wanted to get out of the elements as quickly as possible, but you’re right. That’s what I should have done. Oh well. I’m not moving it now.” Then he disappeared into the stairwell on the other side of the lobby.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“You’d better get home too, Gallagher,” Jessica said.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“I know. The roads are getting worse by the minute. But before I leave, I want to check something out on the side of the building. I thought I heard a moaning sound coming from the shrubs.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“That’s strange,” Connie said. “Are you sure?”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Between the gusting wind and the pouring rain, I’m not sure of anything, but I need to at least check. Someone could have been hit with a flying object with this wind.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“I’ll come with you,” Connie said.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Be careful,” Jessica warned.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie waved back at Jessica to indicate that they would.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThey walked around the cement pathway leading from the front entrance to the back of Palm Paradise, where the swimming pool was located.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhen they arrived about halfway down the side of the building, Gallagher stopped short and pointed at the bushes. A pair of black sneakers poked out from the shrubs and pointed upward.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Somebody must have lost their shoes,” Gallagher said.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSomething didn’t seem right to Connie. “With all this wind, how are those shoes remaining upright? Wait a minute…”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConnie bent down and squeezed the shoes.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThey were attached to a person.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51650995716413,"sku":"SBEBOOKS7-12","price":24.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SBEB7-12_9ddb92da-d521-4440-88f9-08ce05dbb185.png?v=1777491520"},{"product_id":"ice-cream-shop-mysteries-starter-bundle-books-5-8-ebooks","title":"Ice Cream Shop Mysteries Starter Bundle (Books 5-8), Ebooks","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003eBooks 5-8 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\"\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer paperbacks? \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you love quaint New England seaside towns, lovable characters, captivating mysteries, and ice cream parlors, you’ll love the \u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003ePeppermint Stick-Up \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 5)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eFrozen Pudding Fiasco (Book 6)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eMango Murder\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 7)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eWhipped Crime\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 8)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cimg height=\"17\" width=\"89\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt;\"\u003e\"Oh, wow. I didn't see that one coming! I love the way Angela describes the locations and people.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11.0pt;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt;\"\u003e   - Brenda\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-30c7a4aa dc-has-condition dc-condition-empty elementor-widget elementor-widget-testimonial\" data-id=\"30c7a4aa\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"testimonial.default\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-testimonial-wrapper\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"The characters are great and it's very exciting getting to the guilty party. I will tell all my friends about this series.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e   - Diana\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"elementor-testimonial-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\" data-hook=\"review-body\"\u003eAnother fun read in this addictive series! Gets better with each book! Can’t wait to read the next one!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"\u003cbr\u003e   - Nana Fields\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"a-row a-spacing-small review-data\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\" data-hook=\"review-body\"\u003e\"Another great cozy mystery. The characters are so likeable and relatable. I am so enjoying this series. On to the next one.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-size-base review-text review-text-content\" data-hook=\"review-body\"\u003e    - MKW\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis product is an EBOOK and is compatible with any modern digital app and device, including:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKindle or Kindle App for phones\/tablets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApple Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGoogle Play Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNook\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKobo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNative e-readers on Apple and Android products\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicrosoft Surface and Tablets of all kinds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiPads, iPods, iPhones\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAndroid phones and devices \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer paperbacks? \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003ePeppermint Stick-Up: Chapter 1\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Ready, kiddo?” Joe Wiggins asked as he entered\u003ci\u003e Bella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e sporting a burgundy sweater embroidered with a giant hunter green Christmas tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna couldn’t suppress her smile. “Love your sweater, Joe. Way to get into the holiday spirit.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“This sweater does the trick every year. Besides, I wanted to meet this cousin of yours in style. You’ve talked so much about Connie that I feel like I know her already.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna had been counting down the minutes until closing time, when she would finally see her cousin. Connie had arrived in Massachusetts a few days ago, after driving up from southwest Florida, so she wouldn’t need to rent a car during her two-and-a-half week stay. She had spent the last few days with her parents and sister, who lived in Wakefield, which was about forty-five minutes from Seagull Cove. Now it was Anna’s turn for a long-awaited visit with her cousin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe strawberry ice cream cone clock on the wall next to the counter struck 7:30, which was Anna’s closing time in the winter. The other shops closed at 7:00, but Anna remained open for an additional half hour, in case weary shoppers wanted to stop in for an ice cream before heading home after an evening of holiday shopping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHer employees had just left, and Anna had already fed Casper, the feral cat who found his way to the stoop outside her back door each night just before closing time. He always expected a snack. All that was left for Anna to do was flip the sign on her front door to say ‘closed,’ and grab a container of peppermint stick ice cream for later that evening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Most people prefer \u003ci\u003ewarm\u003c\/i\u003e treats when they decorate their tree. Leave it to you to serve ice cream,” Joe said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It seemed fitting, since this is my first Christmas as an ice cream shop owner.” Anna couldn’t wait to introduce Joe and Connie, but she also couldn’t wait to have her cousin all to herself afterwards. At Connie’s request, Anna hesitantly agreed to save her tree decorating for the two of them to do together. She usually put up her Christmas tree the week after Thanksgiving so it would last until after the New Year, but she held off an extra week so she and Connie could decorate it together. However, as a compromise, she decorated the rest of her blue and white cottage inside and out, so the tree was all that remained.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA happy warmth spread across Anna’s chest as she thought of the perfect evening that lay ahead. First, Joe and Connie would meet over a cup of coffee at the \u003ci\u003eSand Dollar Grille\u003c\/i\u003e. Then Anna and Connie would decorate the tree, have some peppermint stick ice cream by a roaring fire, and catch up on life. They had so much to catch up on, especially Anna’s investigation into her sister Bella’s apparently fake death.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna placed the ice cream container into a brown paper bag, slipped on a navy down winter coat, and the two set out toward the \u003ci\u003eSand Dollar Grille\u003c\/i\u003e, just up the street, where Connie should just about be finishing dinner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter locking the door, Anna peeked around the side of the building at Joe’s second-floor apartment. The white wooden staircase was tightly wrapped in colored lights, and an oversized Christmas tree stood proudly in front of the window. It must have taken up half of his living room. The shops on Main Street were all decorated with white lights, so Joe’s colored lights stood out. “I don’t know why I’m surprised that you go all out for Christmas,” she said. “You truly are a kid at heart.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe simply chuckled.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThey crossed Main Street and headed north toward the \u003ci\u003eSand Dollar Grille\u003c\/i\u003e. Anna could feel the smile plastered on her face. She had been looking forward to this day ever since she learned in October that Connie would be coming for Christmas.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe glanced at Anna. “It’s good to see you so happy.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe shops were closed, and Main Street was already empty, but the Christmas lights that decorated them were still on. The town requested that the Main Street business owners set their lights to turn off with a timer at midnight, even though most of the shops closed at 7:00.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe elegant black streetlights that flanked Main Street, reminiscent of the gas fixtures from days of old, further lit their path. The shop owners had shoveled the sidewalks in front of the stores after an early snowstorm, leaving icy white piles along the edge of the sidewalk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe sound of Joe’s cell phone ringing broke the silence as they passed \u003ci\u003eJade’s Jewelry Shop\u003c\/i\u003e. He glanced at the screen. “Let me get this real quick. It’s one of my buddies. He probably wants to confirm our plans for tomorrow night.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna stepped into the jewelry store’s covered entryway to get away from the biting wind. She was surprised to see Casper standing in front of the old wooden door. Anna bent down and scratched his head. “Hello, little fellow. What are you doing here?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eCasper meowed, and a strange feeling crept over Anna. She stepped back onto the sidewalk and peered up and down Main Street, but nothing seemed out of the ordinary, so she returned to the shelter of the doorway.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Joe finished his phone call, Anna rejoined him on the sidewalk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Shall we go?” Joe asked, pulling up the collar of his coat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThey hadn’t even resumed walking when that ominous feeling returned. Anna was about to tell Joe when she discovered the reason for her uneasiness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA man in a black hoodie stepped out from an alley separating \u003ci\u003eJade’s Jewelry Shop\u003c\/i\u003e and the sandwich shop next to it. The man pointed a gun at them from beneath his sweatshirt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe’s left hand flew protectively in front of Anna, and he stepped ahead of her. “Well, that’s a fine how-do-you-do, young man.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe man pointed to the paper bag Anna was carrying. “Give me that!” He barked in a deep, raspy voice. It sounded as if he were trying to disguise his voice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna looked at Joe, confused, then back at the gunman. “You want my peppermint stick ice cream?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe armed robber yanked the bag from Anna’s hand, opened it, then smashed it on the ground, turning the snow on the edge of the sidewalk pink.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Well, that ticks me off,” Joe said. “You just wasted a container of perfectly good ice cream.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Where is it?” the man cried.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Look,” Joe said, “we both know that you don’t have a gun under that sweatshirt. Why don’t you tell us what you’re looking for before you dig yourself into an even deeper hole?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You really don’t know?” he asked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna and Joe exchanged a confused glance, then stared blankly at the man. Apparently, he believed them, because he turned and sprinted off into the darkness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe made a quick movement and for a moment, Anna thought he was going to chase the man. She grabbed his arm and held on tightly. “Don’t go after him. It’s not worth it.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe winked at Anna. “I’m not. I was just reaching for my phone so we can call Charlie.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eCharlie Doyle was Seagull Cove PD’s only detective.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe took his flip phone out from his coat pocket and placed the call.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna listened while Joe gave Charlie a quick recap of what had just happened.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Yes. We’re still in front of \u003ci\u003eJade’s\u003c\/i\u003e. We’re safe. Okay. We’ll stay here until you arrive. But hurry, Charlie. It’s freezing out here.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Let’s wait inside the covered entryway,” Anna suggested. “At least we won’t have the wind whipping through us.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eCasper was still standing in front of the door. He once again meowed, as if trying to communicate something. That same eerie feeling swept over Anna once again. Had Casper been trying to warn her about the robber, or was there something more?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs they waited for Charlie, Anna glanced at the Christmas tree in the display window of \u003ci\u003eJade’s Jewelry Shop\u003c\/i\u003e. A slew of wrapped presents spilled out from beneath the tree, and it was decorated with white lights and jewelry-themed ornaments. Anna hoped she and Connie would still have time to decorate her own tree by the time they got home. “I should call Connie to let her know we’ll be a little late,” Anna said.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe started to call her cousin when something caught her eye from under the tree. Her heart began to pound. She slipped her phone back into her purse and walked around to the front of the window, pulling Joe along with her. “Joe, is that what I think it is?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe looked at the two feet wearing wool socks and Birkenstock sandals sticking out from under the otherwise festive Christmas tree in the display window.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It looks like a body to me,” Joe said. “Unless that’s someone’s idea of a practical joke.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It would be a pretty sick joke,” Anna said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’d say,” came a familiar voice from behind them. Anna turned around and saw her cousin, Connie, peering over their shoulders and staring at the legs protruding from under the Christmas tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Connie!” Anna squealed, throwing her arms around her cousin, and pulling her into a bear hug. Then she stepped back. “What are you doing here?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I was getting worried when the two of you didn’t show up, so I started walking down Main Street. I figured you must have got tied up at your shop, so I was going to meet you there. Then I saw you pull Joe out of the entryway and stare at the display window. My goodness, that looks like a dead body.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe shook his head. “It figures. Another cousin who runs \u003ci\u003ein\u003c\/i\u003e the direction of danger, rather than away. You’re not even together for one minute, and look what happens.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You must be Joe Wiggins,” Connie said, giving him a big hug. “I feel like I already know you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Same,” Joe said. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna quickly explained to Connie what had happened on their way to the restaurant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“My goodness, you were held up? Are you okay?” Connie asked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I don’t think he had a real gun,” Joe said. “But Detective Charlie Doyle is on his way.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It looks like our plans are going to get off to a late start,” Anna said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eCharlie pulled up in his black Honda rather than a police car, since he had been off duty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Sorry to pull you away from your family on a Friday night so close to Christmas,” Anna said.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe introduced Connie and Charlie.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Nice to meet you, Connie. I’ve heard a lot about you from Anna. It’s no problem. Patty is putting the younger kids to bed. I’m just glad you’re okay. And I’m relieved that you’re not calling about a dead body,” he said with a chuckle. “When Anna McBride is at a crime scene, it usually means someone has been murdered.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“In that case,” Anna said, “I have some \u003ci\u003ereally\u003c\/i\u003e bad news. You might want to call for backup.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna, Connie, and Joe all turned and faced the display window and Anna pointed to the legs, protruding from beneath the Christmas tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You’ve got to be kidding me,” Charlie said.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51651829662013,"sku":"ICEBOOKS5-8","price":17.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/ICEB5-8.png?v=1777512628"},{"product_id":"ice-cream-shop-mysteries-starter-bundle-books-9-12-ebooks","title":"Ice Cream Shop Mysteries Starter Bundle (Books 9-12), Ebooks","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003eBooks 9-12 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\"\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer paperbacks? \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you love quaint New England seaside towns, lovable characters, captivating mysteries, and ice cream parlors, you’ll love the \u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eSeaside Ice Cream Shop Mysteries!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eCookie Dough Catastrophe \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 9)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eA Sprinkle of Death (Book 10)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003ci\u003eTutti Frutti Tragedy \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 11)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eA Dangerous Scoop\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 12)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cimg height=\"17\" width=\"89\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"As this series has progressed it’s clear that the author took great pleasure in crafting a superb story. This author was new to me but I am grateful I read her first book. To me it’s a must-read series. My blood is pumping knowing that more clues and discoveries are coming! Anxiously awaiting the next book!\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Eileen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"This continues to be an entertaining series. It is also an easy read. Looking forward to the next book. Now I think I’ll go get a scoop of chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream!\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Rae\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"What an exceptional read. The story was told very well and the characters pulled it off. I hope the next book comes out quickly. You will enjoy reading this series.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e  - Mary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis product is an EBOOK and is compatible with any modern digital app and device, including:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKindle or Kindle App for phones\/tablets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApple Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGoogle Play Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNook\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKobo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNative e-readers on Apple and Android products\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicrosoft Surface and Tablets of all kinds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiPads, iPods, iPhones\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAndroid phones and devices \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 0, 255);\"\u003ePrefer paperbacks? \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003eExcerpt\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eCookie Dough Catastrophe: Chapter 1\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Are you absolutely sure that we have enough ice cream for all the people coming to the town picnic this afternoon?” Anna asked Velma as she eyed the portable freezer, which was plugged into a generator by a long extension cord. “I heard that half the town turns out every year for this event, and the temperature is supposed to climb into the high sixties today.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“We’ll be fine,” Velma said. “We rented the exact same freezer two years ago, when the previous owners did this event. Alex and Jack will be standing by all afternoon to run back to the store to pick up more containers of ice cream when we start to run low. Try to relax. It’s going to be a fun day.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna scanned the expansive grassy field, which would soon be filled with picnic blankets and lawn chairs. Several other food vendors had also set up stations nearby, and on the opposite side of the field were booths for games. But the most talked about attraction was a small carousel for the youngest residents of Seagull Cove. It was a new addition to the field, located behind Anna and the other food vendors. “It looks like the Fourth of July.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Nope, it’s just the first Sunday in May,” Velma said. “Come the Fourth, Seagull Cove will be bursting with tourists and summer residents. That’s why the town hosts this picnic every year for full-time residents. It’s the perfect way to come together as a town and celebrate spring. Think of it as the calm before the storm.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It really does sound fun.” She turned her face toward the warm sun, which was shining brightly in the blue sky. “And it’s a beautiful day for it. I guess I’m just nervous, because I’ve never done this.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It will be easy-peasy,” Velma said. “You’ll see. That’s why we’re keeping it simple and only offering two flavors of ice cream—chocolate chip cookie dough and rocky road.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna had polled customers in the weeks before, and those were the most popular flavors. Chocolate chip cookie dough won by a slim margin, with rocky road a close second.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“We’ve got this,” Velma said.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Do you think I have enough help? There’s the two of us, plus Trish, Alex, and Jack.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAlex and Trish, two of Anna’s college student employees, were home for the summer. Jack, a high school student, admired Alex, and was thrilled to learn they’d be working together today for the first time since last summer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Hey, if you need extra help, just text me.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna turned to find her good friend Todd Devonshire smiling in her direction. He had helped her out in a pinch once before in the fall, when Anna was hosting an ice cream sundae party at a client’s home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It’s great to see you, but I thought this picnic was only for residents.” Todd lived in Gloucester, the next town over.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I have connections,” he said. “I’m here with my buddy, Jeff. I just came over to say hello, but seriously, if I can help with scooping ice cream, just let me know.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thanks so much. Velma seems to think we’ll be okay, and she’s usually right. But it’s good to know you’re here, just in case. I’m not as confident as she is.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“My money’s on you.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs Todd left to rejoin his friend, Joe Wiggins made his way across the field toward Anna’s ice cream stand, with his metal detector in tow. “Any chance I could store this contraption here for safe keeping? I want to be able to hit the ground running—literally—as soon as everyone leaves.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eVelma chuckled. “He’s addicted to that contraption.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Of course,” Anna said, moving aside so he could stash it under one of the folding tables. “I’ll be curious to see if you find anything after the crowds leave.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA woman with smooth dark brown hair and an athletic build walked with purpose to Anna and extended her hand. She wore blue jeans and a long-sleeved t-shirt that read \u003ci\u003eCoastal Explorers Youth Camp\u003c\/i\u003e. “I didn’t mean to interrupt, but I wanted to see if you needed anything. I’m Leah Weston,” she said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Right, the new director of the camp,” Anna said. “You did a wonderful job organizing this event.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m so glad you were able to come. I hear last year wasn’t the same without ice cream.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“\u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e wasn’t up and running yet this time last year, and I was preparing for my grand opening. But I’m thrilled to be here today. I think we have everything we need.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“This is my first year, too,” Leah said. “I just started the job in January. I can’t wait to meet more of the families in town, especially now that our first session is only a month away.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Let me get you an ice cream on the house. It’s the least I can do to thank you for your hard work organizing this event. Cookie dough or rocky road?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Cookie dough, please.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna pressed an extra scoop of ice cream into Leah’s cup. “Enjoy.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thank you.” Laugh lines appeared around her eyes as she smiled broadly. “The sugar will help keep me energized.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eRight at noon, families began descending on the field. The grounds were owned by the town and were used for the camp in the summertime, but they also served as the venue for the town’s annual picnic.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna joined her staff, who were serving ice cream to enthusiastic youngsters.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWithin no time, the field was bustling with activity. It was an even larger turnout than Anna had expected, and Velma was right. There simply wouldn’t have been enough room on the property to hold all the tourists and summer residents that would soon flock to Seagull Cove.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJeremy Russo waved at Anna from halfway across the field. He was snapping photos with a camera that hung around his neck.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHe made his way over to greet Anna and her staff, chatted for a few minutes, then strolled over to the carousel to snap some photos of squealing children enjoying the new attraction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eDetective Charlie Doyle came over with his oldest child, Madison, and got six ice creams for himself, his wife Patty, and his four children, who ranged in age from seven to seventeen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAlex and Jack made quick work of scooping four cups of cookie dough ice cream and two cups of rocky road. An hour later, after a steady flow of customers, the young men announced that they were going back to the shop to pick up some more containers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna and Trish took over scooping, while Velma handled the cash register. Anna smiled as she pushed a strand of her long brown hair away from her face. The ice cream stand was running like a well-oiled machine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMary, one of Anna’s employees who wasn’t working that day, came over with her two sons, Darren and Dylan. “How are you doing?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“So far, so good,” Anna said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thanks for giving me the day off so I could enjoy the picnic with my family.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Can I get you boys an ice cream?” Anna asked the middle school-aged boys.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Rocky road,” Darren said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eDylan put his hands in his pockets. “Me, too, please.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“James and I will take a cup of chocolate chip cookie dough.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eVelma handed the boys their ice creams, while Trish filled the other two cups for their parents. \u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I was hoping to introduce the boys to Leah Weston,” Mary said. “They are looking forward to their fourth summer as ‘Coastal Explorers.’”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna glanced around the field and pointed to Charlie’s blanket. “There she is. She’s talking to Charlie and Patty Doyle. I met her earlier. She’ll be making the rounds all afternoon.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Great, thanks. I’ll bring the boys over to say hello.” Mary reached for her wallet, but Anna held up her hand. “Don’t you dare. It’s on the house.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMary smiled warmly. “What do you say, boys?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thanks, Anna,” Darren said with a playful salute.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Yeah, thanks,” Dylan said, with a mouthful of ice cream.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe laughed and handed him some napkins. “Better take these.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eRuthie, Anna’s friend and the owner of \u003ci\u003eThe Book Cove\u003c\/i\u003e, also came over to say hello. She was with a woman Anna had never met. “This is Vicky, an old friend who is visiting for the day.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna extended her hand to the woman, but she was looking across the field and barely noticed. Anna looked at Ruthie, who shrugged her shoulders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Oh, I’m sorry,” Vicky said, turning her attention to Anna and Ruthie. “It’s lovely to meet you. This is such a wonderful event. I own two camps in the area, and I love the idea of using the grounds for a community event in the off-season. I’m just taking it all in.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter Anna’s line began to die down, Jeremy came back over.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Ice cream?” Anna asked.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“No, thanks. I haven’t eaten lunch yet. Can you take a break and join me? I packed extra food,” he said to Anna.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I wish I could, but I don’t want to leave my post.” Anna gestured toward Joe, who was making his way through the crowd as if he were the mayor. “I’ll bet he would, though.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“If I can pry him away from his adoring public. I swear, he’s the most popular guy in Seagull Cove.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Maybe he \u003ci\u003eshould\u003c\/i\u003e run for mayor,” Anna joked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Are you kidding? Nothing could pull him away from retired life, especially not a high-pressure job.” Jeremy leaned in closer. “We’ll talk soon about planning that day trip to Rhode Island,” he said in a low voice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShe nodded. “All I can think about is catching Rebecca’s killer so we can bring Bella home,” she said in an equally quiet voice. “Thanks again for the offer for lunch, but I just wouldn’t feel right abandoning my post.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I understand. It’s a good networking opportunity for you, as well.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAlex and Jack returned with more ice cream and replaced the near-empty tubs in the portable freezer.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJeremy stepped back and raised his camera. “Let me get a picture of all of you.” Anna stood with her staff. Jack and Alex each picked up an ice cream scoop and posed for the photo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Great shot,” Jeremy said. “I’ll send it to Anna.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs Jeremy was leaving, Mallory, an attractive brunette woman who also happened to be his former girlfriend, caught up with him. Anna couldn’t hear what she said, but after a few seconds, Jeremy followed her to a blanket.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Isn’t that Jeremy’s ex? She sure is positioning herself for a reconciliation,” Velma said, flashing Anna a reprimanding look.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Yes, that’s Mallory. Why are you looking at me like that?”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You’d better do something so that reconciliation she’s gunning for doesn’t happen,” Velma said. “Jeremy likes you, but if you keep him at a distance for much longer, he might just return to the open arms of his ex.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eFortunately, Anna was rescued by an exuberant little girl in pigtails running toward the ice cream stand, with her father jogging behind to keep up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAt 3:00, the games closed, and by 3:30, folks were beginning to pack up and trickle out of the field. A half hour later, it was time to close down.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m going to bring the cash and receipts to the safe in the shop until the bank opens tomorrow,” Anna said to Trish and Velma.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’ll come with you,” Trish said. “The guys can help us load your car, and I’ll help you bring everything inside.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Great. How about we all take an ice cream break first. It looks like there’s just enough left for us to all have a cup.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“We’ll do it, but just to save you from having to carry it back to \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e,” Alex said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna laughed. “It’s good to know I can count on you for the tough jobs.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe younger employees sat on the grass, while Anna and Velma made use of two plastic chairs behind the tables. Just as they sat down, Todd came over. “I’m about to leave, but I wanted to say goodbye. Now that the warmer weather is coming, you’ll be seeing more of me at \u003ci\u003eBella’s Dream\u003c\/i\u003e.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“We’ll be looking forward to that,” Velma said. “It’s always nice to see you, Todd.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJoe returned and reached under the table for his metal detector. “You guys look bushed.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Some of us were working all afternoon and not socializing,” Anna said. “Good luck with that metal detector.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’ll hang back with you guys for a little while. People are still clearing out, and I don’t want to look too eager.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMary also returned. “James took the boys home so I could help you break things down.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You’re the best. The more the merrier.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Have you seen Leah?” Mary asked. “I never did get a chance to introduce the boys to her. She was here at the beginning of the afternoon, and then she suddenly disappeared.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna glanced around. “I haven’t seen her since earlier. Maybe she left.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I guess I’ll catch up with her another time.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe sound of a barking dog startled them. Anna turned and saw a cocker spaniel barking at the carousel, which had been quiet and still since the games closed an hour ago.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna chuckled when she saw Casper perched on the carousel, unintimidated by the dog.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m not surprised to see Casper here. He seems to show up everywhere. But where did that dog come from?” Anna asked.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I think that’s George Randolph’s dog, Biscuit. George is the president of the board of directors for \u003ci\u003eCoastal Explorers\u003c\/i\u003e. He probably came from the office. It’s just through that path in the woods.”\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMary went toward the carousel and grabbed the dog by the collar, but he wouldn’t budge.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna began walking toward Mary to give her a hand, since the dog wouldn’t stop barking. He pulled Mary to the other side of the carousel. She stopped suddenly, bent over, and let out a piercing scream.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAnna jogged to Mary, who was standing there with her hands on her head while the dog continued to bark.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIt didn’t take long for Anna to understand why Mary was upset. There were two pale legs sticking out from under the carousel. Anna bent to look more closely. It was Leah Weston. Her neck was bruised, and her lips were blue.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHearing Mary’s scream, Joe and Todd also took off in the direction of the carousel. As soon as he saw Leah’s lifeless body underneath, Joe called 9-1-1. Charlie and his family had just left, so Anna texted him, telling him to return right away without his children.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I guess I won’t be using my metal detector here anytime soon,” Joe said. “It looks like this field is now a crime scene.”\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51652002185533,"sku":"ICEBOOKS9-12","price":17.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/ICEB9-12.png?v=1777513530"},{"product_id":"sapphire-beach-starter-bundle-books-3-ebooks","title":"Sapphire Beach Starter Bundle (Books 4-8), Ebooks","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003eBooks 4-8 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\"\u003eSapphire Beach Cozy Mystery Series\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrefer paperbacks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca title=\"Click here for paperbacks.\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eCandy Canes and Cadavers\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e (Book 4)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eSnowbirds and Suspects \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 5)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eBridesmaids and Bodies\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 6)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eHurricanes and Homicide\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 7)\u003cbr\u003eKayaks and Killers (Book 8)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg height=\"17\" width=\"89\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"This series keeps getting better with each new book. I love Connie and her willingness to help her friends with their problems. I liked learning more about Grace and Ruby and their families. Can’t wait to see what happens to Connie next time.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\"Another great one from Angela K. Ryan. Sally is estranged from some members of the family but could it be a new member no one knew about who killed her? Or did she discover a secret in her charity work? Lots of suspects and the snowbirds are back so everyone is busy at their businesses. A great read and a bit of a surprise at the end. You'll love it!\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Very pleasant book, like all the books written by Angela K. Ryan. This is the 4th book in the Sapphire Beach collection and each and every one has been equally good. I couldn’t put it down until I came to the end.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"I loved Connie, the jewelry-making heroine, along with her friends and family. It was a charming mystery set at Christmas time. I didn't want to put it down.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis product is an EBOOK and is compatible with any modern digital app and device, including:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKindle or Kindle App for phones\/tablets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApple Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGoogle Play Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNook\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKobo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNative e-readers on Apple and Android products\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicrosoft Surface and Tablets of all kinds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiPads, iPods, iPhones\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAndroid phones and devices \u003cbr\u003e\u003cem style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"color: #00aaff; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cem style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrefer paperbacks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca title=\"Click here for paperbacks.\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"color: #00aaff; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eExcerpt\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCandy Canes and Cadavers: Chapter 1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eDura’s warm voice floated through the phone and tugged at Connie Petretta’s heartstrings. Although Connie’s dear, longtime friend was eight thousand miles away in Kenya, modern technology made it feel as if they were sitting across from one another.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eExcitement spilled from Dura’s words. “I’m so happy that our plan is coming to fruition.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie could picture her friend’s eyes dancing with joy the way they always did when she was helping others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eOver email, Connie and Dura had hatched a plan for a special fundraiser whose proceeds would go toward a project at Dura’s church, a church that Connie also attended during her two-year term of volunteer service after college. The parish had a nutrition center that drew hungry families when their situation became desperate, but, since the parish was poor too, the church had little or nothing to offer lately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eDuring one of their online conversations, Dura was lamenting over their predicament, and the two women came up with an idea for a project they had affectionately dubbed Operation Chicken Coop. They would raise money to build and fill a chicken coop so the parish would have eggs to provide lifesaving food for local families. Any extras could be sold at the local market to cover other needs. The eggs would provide local families with much-needed protein and vitamin A, both of which helped prevent blindness, as well as other issues connected with malnutrition, in children.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Did you receive the estimate I emailed to you?” Dura asked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m looking at it right now.” Connie glanced through a printout of the estimate, which itemized the cost of building materials, chickens, vaccinations, and food. The labor would be donated by residents of the village. If they could raise four thousand dollars, they would be able to build a large coop and purchase enough chickens to benefit many families in Dura’s village.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Do you think you’ll be able to complete all the earrings we’ll need and sell them before Christmas?” Dura asked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie ran a hand through her dark, shoulder-length hair. “It’s a tight timeline, but with some hard work and a lot of prayers, I think we can pull it off. If we sell each pair for twenty dollars we need to make and sell two hundred pairs of earrings in the two weeks between now and Christmas to meet our goal.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eFortunately, Connie’s Thursday evening jewelry-making class had committed wholeheartedly to spending the next two Thursday evenings, and as much time as they could spare at home, to creating the candy cane earrings, and Connie had already made fifteen pairs since the supplies arrived yesterday. With Christmas right around the corner, business was strong at\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eJust Jewelry\u003c\/i\u003e, which was Connie’s store where she sold her handmade creations, as well as Fair Trade pieces from Kenya and Ecuador. “We’ll get it done,” Connie said, trying to convince herself as much as Dura.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e   \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie was thrilled to be working with Dura on this project. The two had been close friends since Connie’s postgraduate term of volunteer service. In fact, it was Dura who taught Connie how to make jewelry, instilling in her a lifelong passion for the craft. So much so that, last year, after inheriting a beachfront condo from her aunt and namesake Concetta Belmonte, Connie relocated to southwest Florida to open a jewelry shop, combining her love for jewelry making with her passion for humanitarian work.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDura was one of her Fair Trade artisans and her biggest supplier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs soon as Connie hung up with Dura, she resumed pacing the weathered hardwood floors of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eJust Jewelry\u003c\/i\u003e, stopping at the front window every few seconds to check for her family, due to arrive from the airport at any minute. Between the fundraiser and her family’s visit for Christmas, it would be a hectic couple of weeks. Connie couldn’t wait for them to see\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eJust Jewelry\u003c\/i\u003e. The grand opening had been in April, but this would be the first time her parents, sister, brother-in-law, and twin three-year-old niece and nephew would see the store. She didn’t know what she was more excited about: her family’s arrival, it being her favorite time of year, or the nutrition center project coming to fruition. Connie felt like a child on Christmas morning, and Christmas morning was still two weeks away.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Staring out the window is not going to bring them here any earlier,” Grace Jenkins, Connie’s friend, neighbor, and employee said. Grace had agreed to work that evening instead of her usual morning shift, so Connie could return with her family to Palm Paradise, the condominium building where she lived, and help get them settled.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie sighed. “I know. I should be making candy cane earrings instead. But I can’t sit still.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGinger, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel that Connie had also inherited from her aunt, looked up every so often from the plush rug under the glass coffee table in the store’s seating area. Connie and Grace had been scurrying around all afternoon, making sure that everything was looking its best, and sweet Ginger seemed to be wondering what all the fuss was about.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eShortly after 6:00, two mid-sized cars pulled up in front of her store. Connie squinted as she peered into the passenger side window of one of the cars. She’d recognize her mother’s long, dark hair anywhere. Her family had arrived!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie’s parents, Josephine and Greg, exited their car first. Connie smiled as her mother pointed excitedly toward the storefront, with a gentle breeze from the nearby Gulf of Mexico pushing back her hair. Connie’s father hopped out of the driver’s seat wearing a broad smile. The next to emerge from their rented cars were Connie’s sister, Gianna Bianchi, and brother-in-law, Gary. Their three-year-old twins, Noah and Hannah, waited to be freed from their car seats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie’s heart raced with excitement. Until she saw their faces, she hadn’t realized how much she missed them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJo and Greg were the first in the store. Jo squealed as she ran over to Connie, who was already halfway to the door. The two women embraced until Greg eventually broke them apart so he could hug his daughter, as well. Shortly behind Jo and Greg were Gianna and her family. It was only a three-and-a-half hour flight from Logan Airport to the Southwest Florida International Airport, but with a couple of energetic three-year-olds in tow, Connie wasn’t surprised that Gi and Gary looked like they had just run a marathon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie bent down to embrace the twins as they ran into her arms.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“How did these two do on the flight?” Connie asked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJudging from the weary expressions on their parents’ faces, Connie already knew the answer to that question.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGianna shrugged. “Could have been worse, I guess.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie hugged her weary sister and brother-in-law, then gave her family the grand tour of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eJust Jewelry.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003eShe began with the Fair Trade section, which she was most proud of. It contained an array of handmade jewelry from Kenya and Ecuador, some in muted earth tones and others in vibrant blues, greens, and oranges. Then they moved on to the rest of the store, including the circular checkout area in the middle and the storeroom out back. Next, she brought them to the large oak table where she and her students created their jewelry masterpieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“This dentistry cabinet is such an exquisite piece,” Jo said, referring to Connie’s creative storage solution for her beads and other jewelry-making supplies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eNext, they took a moment to admire some of Connie’s handmade pieces on the displays beneath the driftwood accent wall. Connie ended the tour in the seating area by the Fair Trade section, where two delicate armchairs face a red loveseat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie and Grace brought out some iced tea, which Connie had brewed extra strong, anticipating her family’s travelling fatigue, and joined the others. They also pulled over two extra chairs from the table. Grace had been a friend of the family for more than ten years, so everyone was ecstatic to see her, as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I almost forgot how beautiful your jewelry is,” Jo said. “I’m glad you are sharing your talent with the world.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I don’t know about the\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eworld\u003c\/i\u003e, Mom,” Connie said. “But at least the residents and tourists who visit Sapphire Beach.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGianna scanned the store as she sipped her tea. “I have to say, sis, that Mom’s and my decorating experience has rubbed off on you.” Jo and Gianna owned a home staging company back in Boston and were the professional decorators in the family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie smiled proudly. “I learned from the best.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen everyone finished their drinks, Connie offered to bring them back to Palm Paradise to settle in. Gianna, Gary, and the twins were staying at Connie’s, while Jo and Greg would sleep in Grace’s spare bedroom. Four houseguests would make it tight at Connie’s place, but she insisted. She wanted to spend as much time with her family as possible, and she was afraid if they stayed in a hotel, she wouldn’t see them as much.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You know where I keep the spare key,” Grace said to Connie. Then, to Jo and Greg, she said, “Just make yourselves at home. The refrigerator is full, and there is a bottle of wine on the counter.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thank you,” Jo said, embracing Grace. “We are so looking forward to spending time with you during this visit. It’s been too long.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIn three separate cars, Connie and her family made the one-mile commute along Sapphire Beach Boulevard to Palm Paradise and lugged the suitcases upstairs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I forgot how much stuff these little guys require,” Connie said, throwing a couple of duffel bags over her shoulders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhile the others unpacked, Connie took the pan of baked ziti she had prepared that morning out of the fridge, put it in the oven, and made a salad.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eWithin forty-five minutes, everyone gathered around the dining room table.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThey said the blessing together and dug into their dinner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“So, the play is Friday night?” Greg asked, directing his question to nobody in particular.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe family had come a full two weeks before Christmas so that they could attend a production of “A Christmas Carol” at the Sapphire Beach Playhouse. Being a former actress, Concetta had served as the Chair of the Board of Directors for the theatre, and the play was being performed in her memory. Damian Pritchard, the executive director of the playhouse, had reached out to the family and personally invited them to opening night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie nodded. “The play opens on Friday night, but we’ve also been invited to a Christmas party at Damian’s home tomorrow night.” His parties were legendary. Damian, who would play the role of Scrooge this season, owned a beautiful Gulf-front mansion. Concetta often came home to Boston for Christmas but would always make it a point to remain in Sapphire Beach until after Damian’s party. Anything that Concetta enjoyed that much had to be special.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eGreg and Gary exchanged a glance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Sounds like fun,” Greg said. “But Gary and I have decided we’d rather stay home and watch the twins while you ladies and Grace go to the party. It’s not really our thing. We’ll do something fun with the kids instead.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“That’s not a bad idea,” Gianna said. “It will save us from having to find a sitter on short notice.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“In that case,” Connie said, “let’s not waste their invitations. I’ll invite Elyse and Stephanie.” Elyse had been Connie’s realtor, and the two had become fast friends when Connie relocated, and Stephanie, also a good friend, was Grace’s daughter.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Why not invite your cop boyfriend instead?” Jo asked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eDetective Zachary Hughes wasn’t exactly Connie’s boyfriend. They went on a first date last March, and, due to a miscommunication and both of their unusually busy schedules the past few months, they hadn’t yet made it to their second date.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Mom, I promise to introduce you to Zach before you leave, but please remember that we’ve only been on one date.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter a long day, everyone decided to call it an early night. Connie and her parents cleaned up so Gianna and Gary could put the twins to bed. Then, they all retired for the evening. Connie took advantage of her free time to make some candy cane earrings with materials she had brought home. She was bound and determined to make this fundraiser a success.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51658720018749,"sku":"SBEBOOKS4-8","price":21.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SBEB4-8.png?v=1777651109"},{"product_id":"sapphire-beach-starter-bundle-books-9-12-ebooks","title":"Sapphire Beach Starter Bundle (Books 9-12), Ebooks","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003eBooks 4-8 of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold a-text-italic\"\u003eSapphire Beach Cozy Mystery Series\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrefer paperbacks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" title=\"Click here for paperbacks.\"\u003e \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ca style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eFriends, Foes and Felonies \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 9)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003ePassion and Poison \u003c\/i\u003e(Book 10)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eDaffodils and Death\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 11)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eMarriage and Mischief\u003c\/em\u003e (Book 12)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SmallerFiveStarsCropped_480x480.jpg?v=1706237296\" width=\"89\" height=\"17\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"The plot thickens! A murder mystery with lots of suspects that will keep you guessing till the end. Well-written with a wonderful variety of characters. Anyone that likes to read will love this book.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\"A wonderful book about old friends and new friends helping each other find out the answers. Looking forward to seeing Connie and Zach taking the next steps in their relationship.\" \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis product is an EBOOK and is compatible with any modern digital app and device, including:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKindle or Kindle App for phones\/tablets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApple Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGoogle Play Books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNook\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKobo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNative e-readers on Apple and Android products\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicrosoft Surface and Tablets of all kinds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eiPads, iPods, iPhones\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAndroid phones and devices \u003cbr\u003e\u003cem style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"color: #00aaff; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cem style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrefer paperbacks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" title=\"Click here for paperbacks.\"\u003e \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eClick here.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ca style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/paperback-bundles\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"color: #00aaff; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eExcerpt\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFriends, Foes and Felonies: Chapter 1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie clutched Zach’s hand and practically pulled him through the parking garage, across the street, and into Concourse D at Southwest Florida International Airport.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThey climbed the staircase and made their way toward a wooden bench. Connie anxiously glanced at the corridor that Sam O’Neil, her longtime friend and mentor, would be required to pass through upon arriving. On one side was a large window and on the other was the security checkpoint for departing passengers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Let’s wait here,” Connie said, plopping herself down on the empty bench.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eZach pulled his phone from his pocket and glanced at the time. “We’re early. It will be at least ten more minutes before Sam arrives. His plane is probably just touching ground now.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie let out a sharp breath. “I know. I just wanted to be sure we were here to greet him the second he arrived. I can’t believe it’s been nearly two years since I last saw him. For eleven years, Sam and I worked side-by-side in the office. And that doesn’t even include the countless weekend fundraisers and business trips.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie’s eleven years working for Sam at\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eFeeding the Hungry\u003c\/i\u003e, a non-profit agency that served the poor in various developing countries, as well as her post-graduate term of volunteer service in Kenya, gave her the confidence and experience to open\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eJust Jewelry\u003c\/i\u003e, the shop where she sold Fair Trade jewelry and her own handmade pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eZach rested his arm on Connie’s shoulders. “I’m looking forward to meeting someone who has been such an important part of your life.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie leaned against Zach. “It was actually my parents who introduced us. Did I ever tell you the story?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I don’t think so.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Sam was one of my father’s clients. My dad was his personal accountant. When Sam would go to my dad’s office every year to get his taxes done, my father would keep him posted on my adventures in Kenya. Shortly after I returned, Sam called my dad to tell him that he decided to close his lucrative consulting business to start a non-profit organization after participating in a humanitarian trip to South America with his parish. He wanted to hire my father to take care of the organization’s accounting needs. My dad thought Sam and I would enjoy meeting each other, so my parents invited Sam and his wife, Janet, to Sunday dinner one afternoon. By the end of the meal, Sam had offered me a job and I had accepted.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“And the rest is history?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Exactly. I’m looking forward to spending the next two weeks with him. Sam is a combination of an older brother and a second father to me. I have a feeling something meaningful will happen while he’s in Sapphire Beach.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“What do you mean by that?” Zach asked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie shrugged her shoulders. “It’s hard to explain, exactly, but it’s always a blessing when Sam and I get together. We’re like kindred spirits, even though he is twenty years older than me. There’s usually some sort of strange parallel with what’s going on in each of our lives, ever since he opened\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eFeeding the Hungry.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003eAt that time, I was trying to figure out a path for my life that would somehow be a continuation of my work in Africa, and Sam was wondering how’d he grow a non-profit with no help.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eZach kissed the top of Connie’s head. “It sounds like you two have a special bond.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I couldn’t believe it when he told me he was coming for two weeks. As long as I’ve known Sam, he’s never taken that much time off from work. I also can’t wait to run by him the plans I’ve made for the expansion of my Fair Trade section. I’m sure he’ll have some great ideas.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie couldn’t sit still, so she walked to the airport monitors and checked on the latest flight information, then eagerly returned to Zach. “His flight landed ten minutes ago. It shouldn’t be long now.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA minute later, Connie jumped up and pointed toward the corridor. “There he is!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eBefore Zach could say a word, Connie darted toward a man with salt and pepper hair, a medium build, and kind blue eyes. She threw her arms around his neck. Until that moment, Connie hadn’t realized just how much she had missed her old friend and mentor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eZach caught up with Connie and Sam.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Let me guess,” Zach said. “This is Sam.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA smile was plastered on Connie’s face. “Nah, I just like to give perfect strangers a warm welcome to Florida,” she joked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eZach extended his hand. “Hi Sam, I’m Zach. I feel like I know you already from everything Connie has told me about you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSam pushed away Zach’s hand and pulled him into a warm hug. “And I, you. It’s a pleasure to finally meet the man who captured Connie’s heart.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eZach glanced at Connie and smiled broadly. Then he took the backpack Sam had been carrying.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thank you, Zach,” Sam said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It’s the least I can do for a weary traveler. I’ll bet you’re exhausted.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie had been so excited to see Sam that she hadn’t noticed how tired he looked until Zach mentioned it. Dark circles had formed beneath his eyes, and his skin tone was paler than normal, even for a long New England winter. Sam had only taken a quick three-and-a-half-hour direct flight from Boston, so he shouldn’t have been nearly as tired as he appeared.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie placed her hand on Sam’s forearm. “Come to think of it, you do look weary. Let’s pick up your luggage and get you settled in at home so you can rest. Dinner is ready to be put in the oven.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter retrieving Sam’s suitcase at Carousel 10, they walked back to the parking garage and loaded Sam’s suitcase into Zach’s grey Jeep. Within forty minutes, they had pulled into the underground garage at Palm Paradise, which was the condo building where Connie lived. They ascended the elevator to the seventh floor and entered Connie’s condo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie’s chestnut and white Cavalier King Charles Spaniel eagerly trotted over to greet them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“This must be Ginger,” Sam said, bending over to return the dog’s affection. He reached into the front pocket of his suitcase and pulled out a rawhide bone with a red ribbon tied around it. He took off the ribbon and gave the bone to the dog.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“A belated Christmas gift,” Sam said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eZach smiled. “I think you just made a friend for life. That is so thoughtful of you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie and Sam both chuckled at Zach’s comment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“What’s so funny?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Sam is a generous guy, but the gift for Ginger was undoubtedly courtesy of his wife, Janet,” Connie clarified.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Don’t get me wrong,” Sam said, scratching the top of Ginger’s head. “I was looking forward to meeting this little girl. But I wouldn’t have thought of bringing her a Christmas gift.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I guess running a growing non-profit wouldn’t leave you much time for buying presents for your four-legged friends,” Zach said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen Sam stood and looked up, the sight of the Gulf of Mexico through the double sliding doors in Connie’s living room stopped him in his tracks. “Wow, kiddo, what a view!” He slowly walked over to the sliders, while Ginger sat in the corner and went to town on her new chew toy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I can see why you moved here. This view is exquisite.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“The view is the same from the guest room,” Connie said. “Why don’t you settle in and relax? I’ll put dinner in the oven.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSam tugged at his fleece sweatshirt. “I need to get out of these winter clothes and put on something more appropriate for Florida weather.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eZach showed Sam to Connie’s guest suite, where she had already pulled down the Murphy bed and put fresh sheets on it. All there was for Sam to do was unpack.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhile Sam settled in, Connie put some breaded chicken breasts into the oven and heated up some mashed potatoes, which she had also prepared earlier. Then she sauteed some string beans in olive oil, garlic, and spices while Zach set the table.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAbout fifteen minutes later, Sam emerged from his room wearing summer khakis and a short-sleeved blue and white button-down shirt. “This is much better,” he said with a satisfied smile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eBefore they sat down to eat, Connie made a quick phone call to check in with Abby, her employee who was covering the store so Connie could take the evening off. It was a late Friday afternoon in early January, which was one of the busiest months since the snowbirds and tourists were returning in full force, so Connie wanted to make sure Abby wasn’t too overwhelmed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Everything is okay at the store,” Connie said when she hung up with Abby. “But I don’t like that Abby or Grace has to cover for me every time I want to take some time off. Although Abby insists she doesn’t mind, because she is still on winter break and could use the extra money, it still feels like an imposition.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Can you afford to hire another employee?” Sam asked, after they said the blessing together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie put two cutlets on her plate. “I probably should. I’ve thought about it, but I just bought the building where my store is housed and took on a mortgage that was higher than my rent had been, so expenses have gone up. I’m afraid of taking on too much overhead. Besides, I want to expand the Fair Trade section of the store, and as I take on more vendors, that means more upfront costs.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It sounds like you’re a busy lady,” Sam said. “Of course, that doesn’t surprise me. Old habits die hard.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Speaking of old habits, you must be slowing down a little bit,” Connie said. “I can’t believe you took off two entire weeks.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSam let out a sigh.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You don’t seem very excited about it,” Connie said. “Is everything okay?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSam shook his head, as if trying to shake off his thoughts. “Don’t mind me. This vacation is just what the doctor ordered. I’ve been looking forward to it for months. I’m just tired.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“From work?” Connie asked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Probably from the last thirteen years in general. The truth is, initially I was only planning to come for a week, but Janet insisted that I extend my vacation. I’ve been tired for a long time.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eConnie’s eyes flew open. “Sam, you’re not sick, are you?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHe shook his head. “No, it’s nothing like that. I just had a physical, and my doctor said that everything looks great. I guess I’ve just been working too hard. Perhaps my age is catching up with me. Janet’s probably right. I just need some time off.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“It sounds like you’re burning out,” Zach said. “We’ve all been there. An extended vacation could be just what you need.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Thanks, Zach. I hope you’re right.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAfter dinner, Sam offered to take Ginger for her nightly walk while Connie and Zach cleaned up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I think I’ll turn in early and do some reading,” Sam said when he returned and saw that the kitchen had been cleaned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSam retired to his room, and Connie accompanied Zach to the elevator.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Something is different about Sam,” Connie said after Zach pressed the elevator call button. “The Sam I know and love was a big ball of energy.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I’m sure he’ll be back to his old self after a few days of rest and relaxation – not to mention the warm Florida sunshine.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“I hope you’re right. But I know Sam, and it looks to me like it will take more than a few days in the sun. I really wanted to hit the ground running and pick his brain about expanding my Fair Trade section while he was here, but now I’m afraid to bring up anything work-related. He looks so fragile.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“Maybe focusing on\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eyour\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ework will help him to get his mind off his own. I’m sure he’d be happy to be your sounding board.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e“You could be right. I guess I’ll play it by ear.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhen the elevator arrived, Zach kissed Connie and left.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Angela K. Ryan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51658742726973,"sku":"SBEBOOKS9-12","price":17.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/files\/SBEB9-12.png?v=1777652224"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0754\/5444\/7933\/collections\/Bundle_and_Save_Graphic.png?v=1724798540","url":"https:\/\/store.angelakryan.com\/collections\/all-ebook-and-paperback-bundles.oembed?page=2","provider":"Angela K. Ryan","version":"1.0","type":"link"}