Beachhead - Chapter 1 excerpt

It took me 8 years to finish this first edition of Beachhead, a murder mystery. It is located in the fictional seaside town of Beachhead on the Atlantic Coast of Florida somewhere between Jacksonville Beach and Daytona. The main character is Jillian Williams, ace reporter for the Beachhead Gazette. Jill is based on a good friend who is a reporter in the local area.
Jill is a hot 22 year-old chick who is sassy and smart, very smart. Jill obtained a bachelors degree in Journalism in just two years. She was the star of UF during her brief tenure. Homecoming Queen both years.
Jill is not only a role model for young girls but also a champion of women and their rights. She aggressively seeks out girls in need of confidence. She builds them up, helps them reestablish themselves on their own. Her trusted accomplice is Stacy who lives in the Old Castle.
Stacy comes from Biloxi, MS. She busted out of her mother's trailer the day she turned 18 and never looked back. She never dwells upon her previous life of physical and sexual abuse at the hands of her mother's lovers. Stacy knew that her mother knew that most of the guys got with her for access to her nubile daughter. Stacy's mother, long, long past her expiration date, had used Stacy to attract men without apology.
As Stacy hitchhiked away from Biloxi and years of torment she got a ride from a safe looking guy in a van. His name was Andy and he shared reefer with Stacy as they bumped down the road toward Miami. Late in the evening Andy is weary from the trip that had started for him in New Orleans. He offers Stacy options of being dropped at a truck stop or spending the night in a cabin at the Old Castle. Stacy will never leave her new accommodations.
A series of murders occur in the once peaceful village. A series of rapes grip the island as well. Jill sets out to solve both crimes with the capable aid of Stacy.

Critics have called this a "fascinating read with earthy characters".

Chapter 1 – Water Hazard

“H

e’s blue,” the killer said softly while staring down at the motionless man. “Corpses do turn blue.” Flicking the ashes from a fat joint, a contented smile rose on the killer’s face. “Farewell, Mr. Mann. Enjoy your final hole.”