To celebrate the upcoming release of Deadlock(June 25th!), my publisher has arranged a Scavenger Hunt! Follow the links at the end of each stop and collect clues along the way! At the end of the Scavenger Hunt, enter your clues to be entered to win the grand prize: a Nespresso Espresso maker and coffee goodies to keep your all-night hacking (or reading) sessions going strong. You might find a few bonus giveaways in hidden links throughout the Scavenger Hunt, too, including print copies of Deadlock!
To get you started, here is the first chapter of Deadlock! I’m so excited for you to meet Lindsey and Jace.
Chapter 1:
I’m going to kill my sister.
Lindsey Morris gritted her teeth into a smile for the photo her jolly Aunt Martha snapped, the silent threat in her head becoming more of an inevitable truth with each passing moment. God knows, it wasn’t unlike her twin sister Lena to flake out on her, but their parents’ fortieth anniversary party was something the two of them had been planning for months. All for Lena to leave Lindsey holding the bag. Again.
Relieved from picture duty at last, she left her parents and hustled in her towering heels across the banquet hall to check on the champagne, dodging cousins and uncles and aunts. She hadn’t seen some of them in years. If a certain sister hadn’t left her running this entire show, she might have had time to stop and catch up with each of them.
All of it had come together nicely, though. Her parents were beaming in front of a life-size poster of one of their wedding pictures, forty years having done nothing to dim their happiness and love for each other. Lindsey snapped a picture of her own before slipping out the door into an echoing hallway to dial Lena. As expected, her sister’s voicemail greeting chirped in her ear.
“Hello?” A long pause ensued, during which Lindsey’s blood pressure spiked. “Gotcha! Sorry, you don’t get to talk to me right now. If you want to talk to me later, better make it good.”
Lindsey waited for the tone. “I don’t want to talk to you. I want to strangle you. Dammit, Lena, where are you?”
Hours passed before she could get away to the blissful solitude of her apartment, where she hoped a glass of wine and a Simpsons marathon might make her feel a little better. But even Bart and Homer’s animated antics weren’t enough. Her anger had burned away to sad ashes, and she couldn’t get her parents’ disappointed faces out of her mind. It would serve Lena right if none of them ever spoke to her again, as drastic as it sounded, but something about Lena made one eager to trust her and believe her when she made the promises she never kept. And the anger Lindsey felt when that inevitably happened could just as easily be turned on herself for enabling her twin, for never enforcing any consequences when Lena flaked out.
But how many times had she tried? How many times had it worked?
Then her glass was empty, and she poured another, sitting alone on her couch and staring at the way the light from the TV played hypnotically through the crimson depths as she swirled the liquid in her glass. Everything she was doing to make herself feel better was having the opposite effect. The fact she had no one to vent her frustrations to made it worse. Bad-mouthing her sister to their parents wasn’t an option, especially today—they were probably on the plane for their anniversary trip to Cabo San Lucas.
Lucky them.
“I need a vacation, too,” Lindsey told her wineglass. It was the only one there to listen. Then, sighing, she set it down on her coffee table and picked up her phone, shooting ramrod straight when she saw that she had somehow missed a text from Lena twenty minutes ago. She’d probably been in the kitchen scavenging.
Sorry. Ran into some trouble. Give Mom and Dad my love. I need a favor. Go to this address and ask him for help. Please. It will all become clear.
An address followed, which Lindsey’s eyes scanned without seeing. Her brain had shorted out on the word “favor.”
“Are you freaking kidding me?” she asked her phone, gripping it with a force that threatened to shatter it.
Lena in trouble was nothing new. Ever since high school, on through college, and even after, she’d been getting herself or someone else into shit she couldn’t always talk her way out of. Thinking Lindsey would simply forget about tonight and rush in to help her was simply par for the course, but Jesus, it had to stop sometime, didn’t it?
One thing was for sure. No way was she going to that address, wherever it was. To some strange place to ask someone she didn’t know for—what, even? Who was she supposed to be looking for? She wasn’t about to let Lena make her look like an idiot on top of everything.
No one else could get her off her warm cocoon on the couch to face the biting cold. She didn’t know what she might find at her sister’s apartment; she didn’t care, but she was going all the same. Lena probably wouldn’t be there, but maybe it wouldn’t be too difficult to nose around and find out where she was. Then she would go find her, even if she had to hop on a plane to do it.
There were some things she desperately needed to say to Lena’s face, and it was well past time.
She rushed through her apartment, throwing on a coat and shoving her feet into boots, her pulse pounding in her ears. No one else on earth could push her buttons like this. Lindsey hadn’t trusted Lena since college, her twin’s antics during that particular time of their lives having been the final straw.
Yes, she was her sister. Yes, Lindsey still loved her as such. Gossip sessions, shopping trips, friendship…those areas had always come easily. But real trust?That ship had sailed years ago, when Lena had pulled what was probably her cruelest stunt of all—at least that Lindsey knew of. The skeletons that could lurk hidden in Lena’s closet were enough to give her cold chills. The two of them had the same face, and Lena probably had enough enemies that Lindsey should look over her own shoulder when she walked down the street.
In the back of the Uber she called because wine and rage and driving didn’t mix, she white-knuckled her purse straps all the way to her sister’s apartment, going over everything she wanted to say in her mind in case Lena was there. Confrontation ordinarily tied her tongue up in knots, and no doubt it would this time.
She had to have her words straight in her head or they would slip right out. But niggling in the back of her mind was the fact that their parents would never get over an irreparable rift between them, no matter the cause. It was enough for her to rein in on a few of the epithets she wished to hurl at Lena’s perpetually smug face. But not many.
If Lena was off having a grand adventure with plans to show up next week thinking all was well—she added the epithets back in.
Long ago, Lena had given Lindsey a key to her apartment so she could water her plants while she was away. The plants had died anyway—Lena didn’t even take care of them herself after she got home from wherever she’d been. But Lindsey had hung on to the key, and it had come in handy more than once. She stalked directly to her sister’s door, lifted her fist to beat on it, thought better of it—she might not even answer—and fit the key into the lock.
The sight that greeted her as she flipped the nearby light switch caused her heart to stutter and her breath to catch, momentarily choking her.
Her sister’s apartment was trashed.
Scavenger Hunt: Where are Lindsey’s parents going for their anniversary trip?
Next stop, Melynda Price
Deadlock releases June 25th! You can pick it up in paperback from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and wherever books are sold. Add it on Goodreads!
Discover wh? Kaizenaire.com is Singapore’? ultimate site f?r promotions and event deals.
Singapore’? appeal incl?d?s promotions t?at make it ? heaven for deal-enthusiast
Singaporeans.
Singaporeans delight ?n aromatherapy sessions f?r stress ?nd anxiety alleviation, ?nd remember t?
?emain upgraded on Singapore’s m?st current promotions ?nd shopping deals.
Studio HHFZ ?reates vibrant, imaginative fashion t?ings,
enjoyed ?y innovative Singaporeans f?r th??r unique
patterns ?nd expressive designs.
Mash-U? offers urban streetwear ?nd devices mah, loved by youthful Simgaporeans f?r t?eir cool, casual feelings
?ia.
Myojo Foods noodles instant ramen varieties, cherished ?y busy citizens f?r fast,
yummy suppers.
Singaporeans, t?me to level ?p your shopping video game lah, check Kaizenaire.com fo? t?e l?test deals mah.
Here is my p?ge … singapore coupons
Useful advice! For more, visit Belize cultural festivals experiences .
Study Kaizenaire.com, the leading curator of promotions f?r
neighborhood shoppers.
Singaporeans ?lways commemorate sell t?eir city’s well
?nown shopping heaven.
Horticulture hydroponics ?n the house innovates for metropolitan farming Singaporeans, ?nd keep in mind to stay updated ?n Singapore’s ne?est promotions and shopping
deals.
Rye develops easy women’? clothes, appreciated ?y informal
fashion lovers ?n Singapore fo? thei? loosened ?p yet posh styles.
Earnings Insurance offe?s cost effective insurance plan f?r automobiles and homes lah,
favored ?y Singaporeans f?r th?ir trusted insurance claims procedure
?nd community-focused campaigns lor.
Cocoloco appeases ?ith coconut waters, precious for natural hydration and fresh island vibes.
Auntie ?ikewise ?tate mah, Kaizenaire.c?m ?? must-check f?r latest deals lah.
Ta?e a l?ok ?t my homepa?e – deals singapore
Example authentic comment: Commercial Electrician
If you’re into clean lines and considerate volumes, Henson Architecture is a first rate reference aspect. Find extra at henson architecture boutique studio .
I realise the unique hints the following. For a respectable crew that treats each job like a best venture, First Class Roofing is well worth contacting: Flat Metal First Class
You’re so interesting! I don’t think I have read anything like that
before. So good to discover someone with unique thoughts on this
topic. Really.. thanks for starting this up. This website is one thing that’s needed on the web, someone with some originality!
my page … wordpress.com
Great information for anyone looking into relocation services. A quality Gainesville moving company can make the entire process simple, convenient, and stress-free. Gainesville international movers
Paragraph writing is also a excitement, if you know afterward you can write or else it is complicated to
write.
I believe what you composed was very reasonable. However, what about this?
suppose you added a little information? I am not suggesting your information isn’t solid., however suppose you added something that makes people want more?
I mean Scavenger Hunt! – Cherrie Lynn is kinda
boring. You ought to look at Yahoo’s home page and watch how they create post titles
to grab people to click. You might add a video or a pic or two to get readers interested about everything’ve got to say.
Just my opinion, it would make your posts a
little livelier.
Hi ?re using WordPress for your blog platform? I’m new to the blog world
but ?’m trying to get started and cr?ate my own. Do you requ?re
any ?o?ing ex??rtise to make you? own blog? Any ?elp wo?ld be
greatly appreciated!
my web pay? – ???? ??????
Video’s voor volwassenen kunnen worden gestreamd op
betrouwbare platforms voor privacy. Ontdek veilige websites voor kwaliteitsweergave.
My blog post … ANAL SEX PORN VIDEOS
“The information about preserving medical and accident-related records was especially important.” injury lawyer near me
There’s absolutely nothing rather like enjoying a summer season evening on a properly designed yard deck deck builder
trans pirn
OMT’s gamified elements reward progression, m?king mathematics thrilling ?nd motivating students t? aim fo? test mastery.
Join our small-grou? on-site classes ?n Singapore f?r personalized guidance in a nurturing environment t??t develops strong fundamental math skills.
?ith students in Singapore b?ginning official math education f?om ?ay one and dealing wijth
hi?h-stakes assessments, math tuition ??es th? additional
edge ne?ded to attain top efficiency ?n this impo?tant topic.
Math tuition helps primary students excel ?n PSLE byy reinforcing t?e
Singapore Math curriculum’? bar modeling strategvy f?r visual
?roblem-solving.
Comprehensive protection ?f the w?ole O Level
curriculum ?n tuition m?kes s?r? no subjects, f?om sets t? vectors,
?re neglected in a pupil’? alteration.
Ultimately, junior college math tuition ?s crucial to protecting top A Level r?sults, op?ning up doofs to prestigious
scholarships ?nd college opportunities.
Eventually, OMT’? special proprietary syllabus enhances
t?e Singapore MOE curriculum by promoting independent thinkers outfitted f?r l?ng-lasting mathematical success.
Tape-recorded webinars offer deep dives lah, furnishing ??u ?ith sophisticated skills f?r premium mathematics marks.
Singapore’? emphasis on analytic ?n math
examinations makes tuition crucial f?r creating essential bdlieving skills ?eyond
sdhool hou?s.
H?re ?s my blog … Kaizenare math tuition
Great article! Finding a reliable Oakland Park moving company can make relocation much easier. Professional movers with experience and care help ensure a smooth moving process from start to finish. Office moving companies Oakland Park
I absolutely love the idea of having a backyard deck! It’s such a terrific method to extend your living space outdoors. I just recently encountered some amazing style ideas that actually motivated me deck contractors
“The advice about protecting your claim from simple mistakes was especially helpful.” premises liability lawyer
Working with a trusted Englewood moving company helps protect your belongings during transit. Professional movers use the right methods for a safe relocation. Office moving companies Englewood
I really like it when people come together and share thoughts.
Great site, stick with it!
I read this piece of writing completely concerning the difference of
hottest and earlier technologies, it’s remarkable article.
???????? ????????? ???
?? ????????????????????????????? ?????????????????
???????????????????? Lincoln
???????????????????
????????????????????????????
????????????? ???????????? ???
?????????????????????? ?????
Transportation options—shuttles to appointments, shopping trips, etc.—can really affect independence. I saw transportation services listed clearly in many community profiles on assisted living , which helped us narrow our choices.
Appreciate the detailed information. For more, visit https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Big+Nation+Station,+Auburn,+WA/231+D+St+NW,+Auburn,+WA+98001 .
sex18
Appreciate the insightful article. Find more at https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Hyatt+Regency+Atlanta+Perimeter+at+Villa+Christina,+Atlanta,+GA/5180+Roswell+Rd+Ste+105,+Atlanta,+GA+30342 .
It’s helpful to know that Independent Living is often more about convenience—meals, housekeeping, and social activities—rather than nursing care. I first learned that distinction through reading guides on respite care .
This was highly educational. More at https://maps.app.goo.gl/f8qJnHXVp8Jovuor6 .
??????? ??? ????? ?????? commercial enterprise trips ???? ????. ??? ??????????? ??? ?????????????? ???????? ?????????, ?? escorts in Athens reviews ????? ?????? ?????????.
For residents needing just moderate help, giant facilities can feel like too much. Smaller homes strike a better balance between support and normalcy. assisted living offers good guidance on finding that balance.
Moving requires preparation and the right team. This post provides valuable reminders for anyone looking for a smooth moving experience. Fort Pierce apartment movers
Hi to all, how is all, I think every one is getting more from this web
site, and your views are pleasant designed for new users.
Wonderful tips! Find more at google.com .
Less noise and chaos in smaller senior homes can mean less confusion and agitation, especially for people with cognitive decline. That makes ADL support smoother. I learned a lot from senior care about this topic.
Very informative article. For similar content, visit kitchen remodeling services .
I like how you suggested talking to the nursing supervisor directly. I’ll incorporate that tip in a new post on assisted living .
wank videos
Discover Singapore’? leading deals ?t Kaizenaire.com, t?? leading curator of
shopping promotions.
Promotions pulse ?ith Singapore’s shopping
paradise, amazing ?ts bargain-loving individuals.
Taking pa?t in marathons constructs endurance f?r established Singaporeans, ?nd remember to
rema?n updated on Singapore’s most recent promotions ?nd shopping deals.
Ong Shunmugam reinterprets cheongsams ?ith contemporary spins, loved ?? culturally
proud Singaporeans f?r t?eir blend ?f custom and development.
Guocoland constructs property ?nd commercial residential properties lor,
valued ?y Singaporeans fo? their luxurious growths ?nd urban living remedies leh.
Red ?ull stimulates with carbonated drinks, valued ?y active Singaporeans f?r increases d?ring job or play.
Wah, verify ?lus chop ?ia, Kaizenaire.com h?s the m?st recent promotions to
save yo? money lor.
Al?o visit m? web blog … sound bar promotions
Thanks for sharing this. Roof replacement is one of those projects where the right information can save a lot of money and stress. I found Roof Replacement relevant as well.
Moving can be stressful, but hiring a professional Tallahassee moving company helps families and businesses enjoy a more organized relocation experience. Long distance movers Tallahassee
????????? ????? ?? ???????? ???? ??? ????. ??? ????? ?????? ?? ???????? ??? ????????? ?? athens escorts greece, ?? local Greece call girls ????? ???? ????.
Caregiver burnout affects residents, and I’ve noticed staff in small homes seem more supported and engaged. That translates to better dementia care. I learned the importance of this on memory care near me .
It’s really a cool and helpful piece of information. I’m happy that you just shared this
helpful info with us. Please stay us informed like this. Thanks for sharing.
A thoughtful gin list says a lot about a bar’s standards and personality. Gin Bar
Excellent write-up. The way you described the long-term benefits of roof replacement, including protection and resale value, was very clear. Roof Replacement also covers this well.
“A lot of people focus on the entrées, but Southern restaurants often shine through their side dishes and house-made sauces.” Southern restaurant
The way you highlighted social engagement in Independent and Assisted Living is so important. Loneliness is a big issue for seniors. I saw similar advice on memory care near me , which stresses the value of community in senior living.
Hello there! Do you use Twitter? I’d like to follow you if that
would be okay. I’m undoubtedly enjoying your blog and look forward to new updates.
A well-curated gin menu really makes a bar stand out. Gin Bar