A frantic search for high-tech riches where innocence isn't protection, and a child baits a deadly trap.
Nick and Sarah expected sunshine and clean air when they retired to the casual coast of Northern California's Monterey Bay--not homicide and danger--but when her driftwood crafts are stolen and the thief brutally murdered, the good vibes turn weird fast, landing them directly in the path of a deadly fight for high-tech riches.
They got lucky with the Fogstalker, but now they're marked by a sadistic opportunist with a frozen soul and, unaware of mounting threats, make perfect targets as the hunters close in. But not even the freaky cast of wannabes, killers, gamblers, and vigilantes that converge on the narrow streets of Aptos can outmaneuver *this* ex-schoolteacher and *this* ex-nurse: "retired" doesn't mean "helpless"!
So when the corporate heat hits the beach to kick butt, not kick back, better slip on the shades, stay cool, and stand clear for action. You can step on their piece and quiet, but don't ever mess with their family!
Retirement will just have to wait.
Excerpt
Sarah sensed something wrong the instant she stepped inside: frantic energy in the ether. Cautioning Nick with a finger raised to her lips, she pointed towards the back of the house and started a stealthy advance. He frowned his surprise, but hardly hesitated, and trailed her through the living room and down the short hall. Through the den's open door, they could see broken window glass on the floor and, freezing in place, heard small sounds of human presence--excited breathing in the corner by the workbench.
Nick edged past and tried for an unobserved peek through the door, but must have made audible noise because their uninvited guest whirled to face him, striking an aggressive stance and uttering a wordless wail of challenge. Busted, Nick slid into the room with Sarah on his heels, holding her back with a cautionary arm.
Pastor Preston Woods who has been hurt so much in the past is seeking a fresh start in the small town of Pinecrest. But when he arrives, he finds himself in the middle of a town struggling with deep-rooted corruption, and a community divided by secre
