Parchment Paths

       My biggest pet peeve when reading any kind of mystery, cozy, paranormal, or thriller, is inept law enforcement . I don’t mean when the police, medical examiner, crime scene techs, and ot hers ineptness is a plot point to be addressed later in the book. I know from true crime books and shows that crimes are often unsolved due to mistakes such as not securing the scene, mishandling evidence, not properly interviewing witnesses and suspects, among others. So, I understand authors include such incidents in their fictional narratives.  What I am talking about is when the author and editor have simply not done their research .    For instance, in Dead Man Talking by T.M. Simmons a man is decapitated, when the head is found by the head homicide detective , he places it in a plastic shopping bag he found at the scene. While reading, questions arose , couldn't the bag have something inside that could rub off on the head and confuse investigat...

Evening is just beginning to settle over the small town you find yourself celebrating springtime in. It’s still warm even as the sun begins to go down. Many of the shops have extended hours and are holding sidewalk sales. It’s the perfect evening for roaming around, enjoying the weather, and exploring th e town.    Several other people have ethe same idea , including some walking dogs, pushing children in strollers , and couples holding hands. Everyone seems friendly , and welcoming, just like the village.    You pass by a bo okstore with displays of gardening books , cozy fantasy, and spring themed cookbooks .  You slip inside , enjoying the warm, inviting aroma. You roam the aisles , enjoying seeing the old favorites and the potential new favorites .  You leave with a new book you cannot wait to read . The cover reminds you of this very village. The shopkeeper told you that it was written by a local author.    As you walk , a delightfu...