The mist swirls about and shadows flicker as we wait in front of the beautiful Antebellum style mansion where we are holding Beth Trissel's Roast and Toast. I am afraid to look around me, there are so many spectres all about. Double porticoes are supported by four massive white columns and stately gardens surround the plantation, a remnant of romance in a bygone era.Magnolia and Southern Blue Gum trees fill the massive gardens and huge Live Oak Trees line the entry to the courtyard where we wait. The mansion reeks of American Gothic.
Spooky! I swear there are ghosts here. The grounds are so frightening! I'm not walking around out here alone, I swear!
Lyn, Sharon and Mary wait to welcome Beth to a wonderful Southern Ball which we have arranged for her. The massive ballroom is filled with guests who await Beth's arrival. The mansion is loaded with rooms filled with Queen Anne tables and chairs, sideboards, hutches and Red Damask wallpaper adorns the walls. Each room if filled with guests. Some of them ghosts of the past, it's hard to tell them from the real guests. How do they take corporal form like that?
There will be many more ghosts, and Beth mentioned a mysterious dagger, to tell you the truth I'm a little scared. There is a murderer amongst the guests, that would make anyone nervous. Who could it be? Would they murder someone tonight?!? Now I'm gettin' nervous.
Oliver took care of the food. His famous red velvet cake and its luscious cream cheese icing calls
to me. He has prepared massive amounts of fried chicken, turnip greens, mustard greens, cornbread, fluffy buttermilk biscuits, roasted fresh ham to go along with the tables of deserts that include my favorites, buttermilk, pecan and sweet potato pies, I couldn't take the temptation and had to leave the area where the refreshments are when I saw the wonderful Southern foods. Yummy."Lyn, Sharon, I'm a bit worried about the knife Beth mentioned. Is someone after her with a knife? Or could they be after one of us? What the heck is going on? She actually mentioned there would be a murderer here tonight." Mary anxiously faces her friends and cohorts.
"Mary you worry too much, everything will be fine." Sharon always thinks positive. But Lyn she shares my worries.
"Oliver has hired a team of ghoul/human creatures that will be guarding the premises. Junior is in charge of security. His team of wolves are trained to pick out their natural enemy, the werewolf. Cuddles uses his magic to keep watch. By the way Mary. One look at a werewolf or a shifter of any kind and we'll run for the hills," she whispers.
"I know, I know." Mary shakes her head and looks toward the drive, where the arrival of a carriage and the clop of horses' hooves approach. "It's the threat of poison in t
he punch. The mention of wolfs bane that has me worried. Too late now here she is."A shiny black carriage with matching black Friesians pulls to a halt in front of them. Out steps Beth, she is a vision in her green ball gown with it's daring decolletage.
Beth descends, just as Oliver shows up. He is out of breath and pushes the three of us out of his way as he drools watching Beth twirl her lovely dress and turn to him with a wink. He passes out cold.
"Thank goodness we got that out of the way." Sharon's laugh brings a chuckle to us all, he's done worse after all. After hugs and hellos we enter the mansion and huge double doors are open to a beautiful spectacle. Couples dance as the women show off their gowns. Several men try to crowd Beth, but we are able to pull her to a lovely curved arm fainting couch. All around the room candlelight flickers, even the daunting staircase is lit with candles, they add an errie mood to the elegant Gothic mansion.
Lyn speaks up reminding me to post a blurb and an excerpt of Beth's wonderful book Somewhere My Love. Oliver reads it with tears in his eyes.
'Star-crossed lovers have a rare chance to reclaim the love cruelly denied them in the past, but can they grasp this brief window in time before it is too late? Newly arrived at Foxleigh, the gracious old Wentworth home in Virginia, British born Julia Morrow is excited at the prospect of a summer working as a guide in the stately houseand herb garden. She quickly discovers the historic plantation holds far more. She becomes obsessed with the portrait of handsome Cole Wentworth, killed in a quarrelover the lovely English lady, Julia Maury, two hundred years ago. Then she meets his double, William, the only remaining Wentworth heir.
Somehow, Julia must persuade Will that their fates are entwined with those of Cole Wentworth and Julia Maury,and that the man who killed his ancestor has returned to enact the deadly cycle again, or she will lose him twice. The blade is about to fall.Star-crossed lovers, flashbacks to early 18th century Virginia, ghostly, murder mystery,light paranormal romance, Gothic flavors…SOMEWHERE MY LOVE.
Excerpt from SOMEWHERE MY LOVE:
A cold finger laid its icy touch on Julia and ran down the length of her spine. “How
did it happen?”
“He’s said to have been run through by the very man who made that mark on the door. A Mr. Cameron. Scottish fellow he was, back in…” Mrs. Hensley pursed her thin lips, blue eyes distant. “Ah, yes, 1806. Some fuss over a woman.”
“How dreadful. What about Mr. Cameron?”
“The friend of a neighbor, I believe. He escaped and was never found. No justice was ever done in the matter.”
Julia hesitated, then asked, “And the woman?”
“Heartbroken, poor thing. She returned to England. She was a guest of the Wentworth family and greatly enamored of Cole. All the young ladies were, but he had a particular fascination with this girl.”
“Why was she so special?”
“Apart from her legendary beauty? She had an angelic quality about her. Or so the story goes.”
An irrational jealousy twanged a jarring note in Julia. In the space of a few short minutes she’d fallen in love with the man in the portrait—typical of her impractical nature and unlikely to advance her nonexistent love life. And yet, she couldn’t help plunging into this sweet madness.
She tore her eyes from the painting. “Do you recall the lady’s name?”
Mrs. Hensley gave a little laugh. She tapped a finger to her furrowed forehead. “Isn’t that odd? It was Julia something…hmmmm.”
Was Mrs. Hensley teasing her? She had to know.
“I’ve got it. Julia Maury,” the guide continued and arched graying brows. “You’re from England, aren’t you, Miss Morrow? Tread with care here, my girl. We don’t want you stirring up any ghosts. Foxleigh has enough already.”
“No,” Julia said, reaching out to the dresser to steady herself. Without meaning to, she suspected she’d already stirred up some force beyond her understanding.'
"Wonderful excerpts Beth." Mary tries to speak above the din of the massive crowd. But it's useless. Finally Beth stands and offers a wave to the many avid readers and fans who are attending this ball. A loud cheer fills the room and the stamping of may feet literally shakes the floor.
"Beth Trissel! Beth Trissel!" Cheers all around are suddenly silenced and all eyes are glued to her. All those in the room wait for Beth to speak.
263 comments:
1 – 200 of 263 Newer› Newest»Good Morning Ladies. It was Miss Scarlet in the kitchen with a candlestick . . . er, uh. Good "roast." I first thought I was playing Clue with all the spooky stuff and the visuals. I love time travel and this sounds really good. Good luck on sales.
Hi Patsy, how lovely to see you so bright and early. Do make yourself at home, the other hostess will be along shortly, so let me welcome you on their behalf. As you see, the table's all laid out with all sorts of sumptuous goodies, and Oliver will be only too delighted to serve you up a portion of whatever you fancy, along with a glass of your favourite tipple while we wait for the guest of honour to arrive!
Mary rushes in. "I just checked the grounds with Junior. I don't mind telling you it's scary out there." Mary plops herself down on the chair next to Lyn and Patsy. Sharon is greeting guests. We better go out front and wait for Beth to arrive don't you think Lyn." Mary rushes outside to be there when Beth arrives.
Lyn you did great with the pictures.
Good morning, Patsy, Lyn and Mary. Wow, this mansion is awesome and so spooky. Shivers...a murderer amongst us! Oh dear, where is Beth? Mary , great intro and Lyn has the touch for the graphicsc, huh?
Oliver, bring me a cocktail to take the edge off
Beth is hiding in a black cloak, wondering, waiting, watching, and imbibing restorative refreshments from Oliver.
Oliver, make it a double. If I'm the one to get iced by that deadly blade, I don't wanna feel a thing! Gulp.
Love the ambiance of today's roast. But then you ladies (and Oliver) sure know how to throw a party. I've got my ball gown on and ready to dance. But I wore my running shoes too in case...well you know.
Beth-loved the excerpt. It reminded me that I've still not read this book and I so want to. Love the hero's last name, Wentworth--just like my favorite literary hero, Capt. Wentworth from J. Austen. Enjoy your roast today.
Beth is in her carriage hiding ladies Junior just saw it pulled over on the side of the drive. What's wrong I wonder?
Oliver if you have been to her carriage and brought her drinks why didn't you tell us. And she has such a beautiful dress. What is she worried about the perimeters are all clear?
Cindy you look lovely. Thanks for coming. Is your dance card filled?
And there she is, our guest of honor. Welcome, Beth! Yes, allow Oliver to keep the refreshments coming. This book sounds great and another one to add to the list. Hi Cindy. Glad the ball gown survived the sleigh ride tumble!
*Bows. Does the Queenly wave. All Hail. Thanks assembled guests.
Cindy, gets an extra hug.
*Wonders how many of those in attendance are 'real.' Who among them secrets a blade, or a candlestick, gotta watch out for those too, as well we know from Clue.
I think Oliver knows something and he's not letting on. At least he's made sure Beth is safe - even if he's not so worried about the rest of us, LOL!
Aw, glad you liked the graphic effects ladies, sometimes at these parties it's difficult to tell what's real and what isn't - ain't that a fact, Oliver!
I read my email and the story sounds great. Congratulations on a wonderful job.
Bunny McLeod
Errr, Oliver, right this way please,
Anyone here named Colonel Mustard? Oooh, we know a Miss Scarlet.
Beware! While joining in the general merriment, of course.
Hi Mary--No the dance card isn't quite full. Saving a couple dances for someone special.
Thanks much Bunny, and other brave and elegantly attired guests.
Hi Bunny, sure Oliver will be only too pleased to fetch you whatever you require. (Lyn ducks out of the way as Oliver nearly knocks her over in his hurry to get to Pastor Bunny
So Beth now that the applause has died down. Don't you have a question to post for your wonderful prize?
I hope your someone special is here Cindy. Great Job at getting Beth to come out of the coach Sharon and all these people here just went wild didn't they?
Gerard Butler is vying with another famous Butler named Rhett for the next dance with Cindy. *Rhett has a rather vaporous form.
Hi Beth, you lood wonderful, that shade of green really suits you. (So many of our special guests seem to like the colour green, it certainly does have an air of elegance.)
I see Oliver has heaped your plate high with all your favourite treats - by the way, do you like the cake, he spent all last week baking and icing it for you.
Watch our Lyn, Oliver has already knocked me down twice in his rush to please Beth and the other guests. What am I Oliver, chopped liver?
*Looks over her shoulder. Wonders who among us is the stealthy murderer?
While gobbling Oliver's delectable cake.
*Sigh* I know, Mary, there are so many beautiful ladies here, and they're all looking so gorgeous in their lovely gowns - He's absolutely besotted with Beth of coure, but he's getting dizzy just trying to take in all the wealth of beauty before him!
Oliver (Sharon smacks him on the back to wipe the smug look off his face.) If you know something and don't tell me, so help me. I'm not over the dip in the frozen pond yet and the auction is coming up, the one I keep threatening to sell you to. One of these days, Oliver1One of these days.
Yes, it was almost a shame to cut the cake, wasn't it, Beth. By the way - who did cut the cake - and what happened to the cake knife?
Suggest we keep a sharp look out for knives.
Hey Beth, what are the chances the murder will take place at the witching hour when the bell in the tower gonhgs out twelve piercing chimes?
Could that be the knife the, gasp, the knife. Mary screams! OH everyone there has been a murder! Junior and Cuddles came upon a dead body. The person had been stabbed to death. What's happening!
Beth don't leave the ballroom!
Lyn, Sharon, come quickly the body is in the foyer. Can you identify her?
Are you kidding? Beth is up the winding stairs and huddled on the landing overlooking the vile scene.
Is there an echo in here?
Horrors! What do you mean she's your old girlfriend, Oliver!
Stay there Beth. Junior go guard Beth!
Who do you think it is Lyn and Sharon, do you recognize her?
My God, her throat is slit. The blood oh my God, the blood, Mary hits the floor.
Oh this is terrible.
Oliver, is this some dark secret from you past you've been keeping quiet?
We need to do something - don't want the blood to stain the carpet or anything!
Mary sits up. Oliver's old girlfriend? Then Oliver is a suspect? What's happening?
I noticed the echo Beth good acoustics.
Oliver, in shock, passes out cold for the second time today, falling on top of Mary and shoving her body into the tree stand. Her head cracks with a loud thud and they lie...oh dear...dare it be true? On the dead body!
*Beth keeps her wits about her and summons Oliver to fetch refreshments to the landing. Urges shaken musicians to keep playing. Don't stop the ball, please carry on. Never mind the body on the floor or the crimson stain. Drag the poor soul off into a corner behind the feinting couch. And fetch smelling salts for Mary.
But no murder weapon. Should we move her to a quiet room and clean up the blood? There could be a gulp, werewolf or vampire or some other type of ghoul out there.
We need to get everyone back in the ballroom, while we call the police?
Hmm...a dance with Gerard or Rhett. That is a hard one. Is there any reason we can't all dance together?? (bats eyes)
Oliver you tank get off of me you way a ton.
Thanks for helping me up ladies. I'll have to go change my gown is covered in blood. What will I wear?
No reason at all, Cindy.
Thank goodness Cindy is carrying on, I wonder if she knows she's dancing with a ghost and a live guy?
Hi Sharon-Yes my lovely gown from last week made it through the ordeal. ;)
Cindy, Rett has that roguish grin. Could he be the one? Are you certain you want to dance with him if he has the knife? Sharon drools. On second thought, what a way to go....
Mary, we have an armoire full of 19th century ball gowns stowed away in the haunted bedroom, if you dare venture there.
I don't mind dancing with a ghost as long as he's charming (with no underhanded ideas lurking in his transparent brain).
Hey Cindy, that's more than Mary's did! Mary, knowing how accidents tend to happen at our parties (can't imagine why) I brought a couple of spare gowns over yesterday. You'll find them hanging in the closet upstairs.
By the way, I've never seen that poor dead girl before in my life - but it looks like her throat's slit so I suggest we start looking for the murder weapon, a rather sharp dagger or knife, I'd say!
Oh, Beth beat me to it. Well, looks like you'll have plenty of choice in the haunted bedroom - would you like to take Cuddles along with Junior for company - oh, they're hiding under the table!
Sharon, a huge fan of Gone with the Wind, waves madly to Rhett, showing her dance card is far from full. Must have been the double Oliver gave her. She barges toward him screaming at the top of her lungs, "Let me at him. Frankly, my dear, I do give a damn!"
We do, I have to change into one. Junior will you come with me?
OOOHHHHH! Mary slides on the blood and crashes into a chocolate fountain, knocking it over and getting slimed with chocolate. Mary sits there contemplating tears. then gets up to go find a place to clean up and change dresses.
Sharon! There has been a murder and you are looking at a dead guy to flirt with?
Oliver what have you been giving her to drink?
*Beth, cleverly disguised in her long black cloak and sunglasses, observes all. *Notes poor Mary in the mire of chocolate. But, oh well, more cake for me. And my dance card is open toooo Rhett!
Poor Mary, Cuddles, stop hiding under that table and touch Mary with your magic horn to stop her having any bruises - and I think you should go with her too while she's upstairs getting cleaned up.
Cuddles, I said touch her with your horn, not lick the chocolate off her!
*Beth is somewhat heartless where chocolate and Rhett is involved.
Or should that be 'are' involved?
Beth you're so right, one can never have enough cake! Would you care to introduce me to that handsome gentleman you're dancing with - no, not you Oliver, I meant Mr Butler.
Come on, Lyn. sigh. Let's go help Mary and make it snappy. Rhett awaits!
I never introduce my Butler to any other lovely ladies, Lyn. *Quickly swirls Rhett away.
Just a minute here. Lyn insisted on helping Oliver bake the cake? Why is that I wonder? Who all ate it? Could it be sprinkled with poison?
Not that gorgeous cake! I was so looking forward to eating some. Mmm. cake!!
*Feels a bit giddy.
Mary rushes back in, thanks for the help Cuddles and Sharon.
I was a mess!
Now Beth, Rhett is not your Butler, he's a guest and I don't know how you are gonna get him away from Sharon. Look at her she's dancing on a table over there with him. Maybe one of our other ghoulish guests will do. The place is filled with all our old guests too. Everyone from Tarzan to Brad Pitt. So take off the coat and dance your the guest of honor. We'll meet back in the foyer in an hour and discuss things.
Wait what did you say Beth, you feel giddy, is that a sign of wolfsbane or some other poison? You did eat that whole cake didn't you?
Oh Sharon, how could you even think that of me - what, ruin a pefectly good cake, as if...
(Mutters under breath "Didn't have to be an actual poison did it, just a little -er halucinatory drug perhaps - well a lady's got to keep her horses in the manner to which they've become accustomed, somehow, heh heh).
What was that Sharon? Oh dear Rhett does seem to be a bit busy with Beth at the moment. There must be other gallant gentlemen around - hold it whos's that handsome man coming across in a rather suave tuxedo, I do believe it's the famous Simon Templar! Now I've heard the Saint is very good at solving mysteries!
*Sings Crimson and Clover Over and Over...
Don't tell me Beth is tripping. You put a hallucinatory drug in the cake?
I know this is kinda funny. Look at Beth. Oh Sharon she does look funny stop smacking me.
*We ALL Live In A Yellow Submarine...
Sharon, feeling lighter than air, swings from the chandelier, kicking over Lyn and Mary. She lands, and slips on the floor where all the mingled blood is from Mary and the corpse. Mouth flies open? Where's the corpse?
Lyn starts singing 'We ain't got no bodeeee... and no body ain't got me!"
They call me Mellow Yellow, Sharon hows off key, hot on Rett's heels. Grabs him by the shirt tail. Screams loudly when she feels nothing. Shiver me timbers...my hand went right through him. He's a floating corpse!
We're Off To See The Wizard! -- Wait, body moved, you say?
Rhett not real??? Where have I been? Oh right, tripping down the yellow brick road with Puff the Magic Dragon.
Am I the only straight one here today? What's happening. Hey, I just saw a guy with a knife disappear into the crowd. Was that the plan get everyone stoned and then kill at will. Junior, Cuddles, it's just us now. We have to protect everyone hers. We have to find the murderer.
Now he has stolen the body. My God what else could happen?
Congratulations Beth. What a wonderful old fashioned Southern party. I loved the Southern cooking, just like my grandmother used to cook. The cake was delicious and the Martinis-well what can I say? Hiccup.
Tarzan and Cheeto are dancing up a blue streak! Where's Jane? And what has become of Oliver? Could he be hiding the corpse? Sharon, feeling no pain, swats air and sings Everybody be happy. Yeah yeah...be happy....
Suddenly the candles flickerbefore coming grudgeingly back to life again. For a moment they sustain their light - then one by one, they all go out.
'Poppies, poppies,' crooned the Witch on The Wizard of Ozz. Yes, Mary, that was the vile plan.
Anonymous - thank goodeness you arrived, do you happen to have a spare candle?
Yes, thanks new guest, these old Southern parties are quite the real or not so real deal.
Sharon, beginning to panic, breaks into a chorus of Ten Little Indians. One by one, we're all gonna die tonight except for the killer! Dear God! Lyn with our heads in a haze, how can we solve a murder? Mary, since Oliver is mia, why not make some strong coffee. Where is Beth? Could she be with Oliver?
I have this potion which will bring everyone back to normal. But man they seem to be having fun. What to do? What to do?
Cheetos is someone eating cheetos? Oh Cheeta, hmmmm. Boy is she wasted.
I fear someone snuffed good old annoymous before they even had time to find a candle.
Does anyone know the identity of the new guest? Cuddles and Junior, go find out and let us know!
*Beth cleverly dons Harry Potter's Cloak of invisibility.
Attention partiers! Those who ate the cake are now high on some drug somebody, (ahem) put in the cake. Anyone who wants to straighten up is welcome to the Narcanon tea I have prepared. Yes, this is the tea line, why is the line for cake still so long. People! There is a murderer about and you are all wasted.
Hi Ho Hi Ho it's off to work we go. Lyn is over there dancing with the seven dwarfs, I can hear her singing with them.
Oh the humanities!
You definitely do not want to be an 'extra' at this party. They die first. Us big name stars have longer to go before the murderer goes for us.
Mary puts on her see invisible people glasses and grabs Beth. What are you doing. Here drink this and give me the cloak. We should have one of our security people wearing this. The murderer is still here!
I would suggest, however, that no one touch the savory mushroom stew. Or the red apples that witch is handing out.
*Beth sings softly, something about seeing pink elephants. Mayhap a cup of that tea would not come amiss.
You think, well for your information the murdered girl is I can't say it. It's Catherine Bybee, or her twin!
If her ghost comes back she may be able to tell us who was the murderer?
Witch? Which Witch? Is that the one in the 'Which Witch Witch' report?
Here Lyn drink this tea. I need you sober to help me in this.
Sharon smacks her lips. Ah, I feel much better after a big bowl of the savory mushroom stew. Did I hear you say it was to die for, Beth? Sharon passes out. Clunk...
Sharon!!! Is she okay? She's not dead????? Oh thank goodness. Just tanked and passed out.
Lyn did you drink the tea? I'd like to give some to Beth, but she's having too much fun stoned.
Yikes! We have double trouble, Catherine Bybee or her twin is our current victim (there may be more) and Sharon needs an elixir asap.
Eeeek! Lyn hastily swallows the tea Mary offers her and splutters chokingly... Cuddles, come here quick. Sharon is in dire need of the healing properties of your horn!
Oh thank God Lyn your sober. Yes Cuddles help Sharon! Give some to Beth too!
Sharon sits up, head in a daze. Shrugs and breaks into song. Oh, Lord, woncha buy me a mercedes bennnnnn. My friends all drive porches. I must make amens. Worked hard all my life, no help from my friends... Oh Lord, woncha buy me a colored t.v......
Beth, always great to see you! And, of course, the ladies of Roast and Toast. And Oliver...
Happy Friday the 13th!
Greetings fair Helen!
that's right Friday the 13th!!
Hi Helen can you believe this mess!
I think Catherine Bybee has been murdered!
Helen, watch your back, we've a murderer on the loose. Is it Miss Scarlet in the library with the dagger?
Has anyone informed Catherine of her possible peril in our perplexing plot?
It has to be a live person, it can't be Scarlett. Any ideas anyone?
Sharon, instantly sober after Cuddles horn swats her a few times heard what Helen said. She slaps herself. Why, everyone knows how superstitious I am! It's Friday the 13th! And we're all gonna die!!
Helen - so glad you made it to the party! Did you bring candles?
We are rather in the dark here.
Where in the world is Waldo...er...I mean Oliver? I knew it. The butler did it!!! Just like the movies
Ah I found a stash of candles! Here everyone lite the candles in the room that all went out. That will help!
Surely not Oliver, no, I can't beliee that, not even with him heavily disguised as Rhett Butler!
No, thre has to be some other explanation. If only we could find the murder weapon that might help us find a clue. Cuddles, you're always hiding things, have you seen it?
...and bring back those missing letters you stole from my last post!
Sorry, I had to go look for a werewolf--in the guise of my cat-- but I'm back now.
we have to find that knife, it could have fingerprints or DNA we might use.
The knife should lead us to the killer.
No it couldn't have been Oliver, he was with us the whole time.
It's always the last person you'd expect.
Oh dear, oh dear! I've been hiding behind the velvet curtains with a certain someone. ;) Is Catherine okay? Do we really have a murderer in our midst??
It might even be---
Yes, there is a body in one of the back rooms and it looks exactly like our poor Catherine.
Cindy glad for the help, did you see anything?
Whoever figures it out gets a prize of some kind, right Beth?
I hope it isn't really, Oliver. I'd hate to see him carted off to prison.
Knives? Poisoned mushroom stew? Floating corpses? Murder? What's next? I am not hangning around to find out. I'm outta here!
What a spooky excerpt, Beth. Great job, Toastettes! You girls do know how to party.
By the way, I'm taking Rhett with me. We will send you a letter when we reach Europe.
In addition to diamond tiara and regal purple boa, I am throwing in a download of Somewhere My Love which is way better.
I know I know. Sharon slaps herself. I write suspense. Why didn't I think of it before? There has to be a hidden panel that swivels into the library. Come on masqueraders! Start searching for the hidden panel and no doubt we'll find Catherine's corpse and maybe a clue as to who done it.
*Beth waves at Laurean, thanks. *She will be sadly disappointed when Rhett fades from her greedy grasp.
Oh, yes, a secret panel. That has to be it! Why didn't we think of it sooner. We did start out thinking of CLUE after all.
Well, I'm taking off for awhile. It's getting a little too scary over here. (Actually giving my kids lunch.) Have fun finding the murderer.
Don't worry she can try to take him but he is stuck here. When I planned the party he had to request permission to come. He can't leave without it. And I am one of the people who has to approve it. It ain't gonna happen, we need Rhett.
(I heard he didn't use deodorant when he was alive, (according to Scarlett),he was handsome but stinky.
Junior, Cuddles get in here, we need you to sniff for a hidden panel!
Well, I heard Scarlet was a bit 'tetched' so go figure.
Hidden panels, secret passages, disappearing staircases....hmmm, are we at Hogwarts?
Hi Laurie. Eat and drink at your own risk. The cake has something strange in it and so does the stew. And doesn't Rhett make a good looking corpse?
Did out unknown murderer knock Rhett off too?
No silly, Hogwart's, that's the next plantation over to the west. We are having unbelievable trouble this week. A murder, snockered guests, ghouls, what next?
And we aren't sure is the dead body Catherine Bybee or not. We might have to wait till she gets off of work. Or whatever she does during the day. I can't believe it, and I pray it's not her. But...
He's already dead Beth. But his corporal form of ghost is here just for you. I have also reminded him of his promise before they let him come.
He has to stay till the stroke of midnite just like all the other spectors.
Oh right, next plantation/castle to the West. Hard to tell for certain whom the fallen woman is as she keeps disappearing.
But of course, The Cinderella Hour!
Hi Laurean, oops, seems like I just missed her. I was snooping around the hauted bedroom looking for clues with Oliver, er I mean Cuddles. You know it's awfully dark up there, good job the moon's shining through the windows!
Mary comes behind Sharon to see what she's doing. Just then Sharon feels something. A library swivels out with such jarring force, Sharon topples in, Mary falling in beside her. Then the door locks and they disappear into the void.......both screaming loud enough to wake the living dead....
*Wrings her hands. Oh woe unto us, disappearing hosts, vanishing guests, whatever can be next?
Any of that cake left?
Cindy are you therem we seen to have a problem over here. Oh she's gone, hmm who else is here.
Beth, Cuddles, Junior, we need to rescue Mary and Sharon.
Now - where was that secret lever ... ah here it is - aaaaargh!
Now you've done it Sharon, we are locked in here and no one knows it. AAAHHHHH! Klunk, Lyn what the hell are you doing in here?
Oh my God, we have a murderer, poisoned food and we're stuck in here. What the heck are we gonna do?
Mary bangs on the wall but no one comes. Lyn, Sharon, MY GOD look!
The knife, someone hid it in here. Someone knows about this place and will come back to find that knife!
What are we gonna do! Mary cries?
Just popping to say hi!! You guys look like you are having a lot of fun.
No Oliver I can't drink now. I'm working, imagine, while you are partying.
Beautifiul blog, Mary. I love the pictures.
Hi there Beth, enjoy your day. Don't let them drink you under the table, oh unless it's with Oliver, of course. Wink, wink.
Got to run now. I'll stop again later.
Hi Mona! Bye Mona! Is it just me, or are we scaring away the guests?
I hear Mona's voice. Mona!! Is that you, we're stuck behind this wall. Can you hear me? Oh my goodness this room is soundproof. Maybe Cuddles and Junior will come for us.
Pan out and zoom back in to find Cuddles and Junior sleeping off the spiked punch. Some help they are.
I can't imagine why, what with murder and mayhem and such. Hey, we've still got swell refreshments and not ALL of them are poisoned or otherwise 'affected.'
A faint voice drifts under the library door
Mona...Mona is that you? Help someone get us out - we're trapped!
Oliver, look after the guests and keep Beth safe ...ouch!
Yeah he's lookin' after the guests and we are stuck here with the murder weapon. Aren't you two scared?
Let's be rational. We're either safe in here...or not. But the good news is, we have the murder weapon so we're one up on the killer. Now start tapping on the walls for a secret button or panel. And shouldn't Junior sense where we are? Cuddles?
Hold on I can her a snuffling noise like a dog sniffing ---and what's that tapping sound - it's Cuddles' horn, he's trying to cut a way into us. Good boys - Cuddles and Junior have found us!
Mind you, knowing where we are, and getting us out of here are two different things!
Are you gals certain you are quite ALONE in there? Hmmm....
AAAAAAHHHHHHHH, something touched me! What's in here???? I hate screaming it gives me a headache.
And I am getting thirsty.
Suddenly the door swivels open and before the three stunned hostesses can escape, Oliver falls in, followed by Junior and Cuddles. Then the ntire room spins and the crew find themselves in the library...face to face with the killler....
*Leans forward. Yes, go on.
They have a hood over their head!
Come on you coward, show your face. You've killed one of our closest friends. What did you do with the body you fiend?
Sharon, Lyn, you okay that was a nasty fall into the room.
Love the excerpt and just love the atmosphere of this place.
Oh dear God! It's Jessie James...and he has a gun!
Don't you come near us. We have your knife. Oops, the murderer has pulled out another knife, a gun and a stun gun.
YYYEEEEEOOOOOOOOOWW Mary spasses on the floor for five minutes, then gets up groggily. I'll be quiet don't use that on me again!
Thanks Sapphire. It would suit you, I believe. :)
Jessie James, how can you hold a gun? You're dead!
Oh, it's a mask?
Even though some of us have had one too many peculiar mushrooms and 'funny' cake.
Sapphire you love the place, go call for help will you!
OOOOOWWWW, stop using that on me. Geez.
*Looks around from sucking down a double mocha, do I hear a plea for help beyond the secret wall? *Wonders, should I seek for some assistance?
Oliver spies the pitch fork by the hearth. Sliding backward, he snatches it up and spears Jessie James in the heart. The gang run off down the corridor, footsteps echoing. Reaching the ballroom, they call for help. The phone is dead....
Beth come in here will you. As you can see the murderer has a gun on us and has been using a stun gun on me. sober up we need help here!
Wait I get it, could the real Beth be under the mask. The other Beth is a robot or something? Did Beth kill Catherine?
So it is Jessie James, he's the murderer. But that can't be no one guessed him. He must be in disguise, I'm telling you Jessie James is really Beth Trissel or a clone of her.
Bummer. The phone's always dead in these haunted house murder 'things.' It's the first to go, along with the lights.
This phone is not working Sharon, did you get Oliver to see if it really is Jessie James, or just pretending to be. Oliver could have killed the wrong person?
Wondered how long it would be before someone thought to consider the ultimate source of murder and mayhem, the author herself. HA! Wicked cackle.
See what I mean. None of this is scaring Beth. Will the real Beth speak up. What's going on here?
I knew it!
Sharon yanks out her trusty cell phone. Dang. Dead battery. I hate when that happens. Sapphire, do you have a cell phone on you? We gotta call the cops!
No Beth put the gun down will you. Everything will be fine. If you just calm down.
Cops are always useless in these scenarios. Who you gonna call? Ghost Busters!
Not only is she a great writer, but she's a great murderer too!
I may have imbibed a little too much of that hallucinogenic cake....
We could call TWRP? Would they help?
Oh right, no phone. I could holler for help, but...
Beth why Catherine?
Why not, I answer, in a strange zombie tone.
Could that be a robot or an impostor?
Could it be...
Maybe, or I might be under the power of a sinister enchanter. You did check everyone's credentials at the door?
I think we need to call in the spirit of Sherlock Holmes. Maybe he can settle this sordid affair.
No I left that up to...OLIVER!
I wonder if he is here at the party/
YES! I love Sherlock Homes.
Summon Jeremy Brett back from the dead to join us. I'm among his biggest fans. He's the perfect Holmes.
Yes, I adore Jeremy Brett!
Great story, Beth!
(I think it was Colonel Mustard with the candlestick in the billiard room.)
And then Holmes will summon Watson, and we're all saved! Except for our poor fallen victim on the floor or wherever she's gotten to.
Joanne! Welcome! Send for Sherlock Holmes. Our phone lines are down here.
Junior, Cuddles, Oliver, please look for Mr. Holmes will you. Sharon and Lyn are you two in shock or what?
We need to find Sherlock Holmes fast!
Cindy, I recently went off on a watch all the Sherlock Holmes with Jeremy Brett binge (Netflix)to the final episode he ever made. He dropped in the saddle, the trooper.
There's a blood curtling scream from one of the bedrooms in the upper wing. With Oliver in the lead, Cuddles and Junior hot on his heels, and all the guests, they tear up the marble staircase, following the scream to the chamber...and gasp at what they see.
*Salutes her hero Jeremy Brett *Observes a moment of silence.
Beth, is your book written in an Agathie Christie style, with lots of plot twists and who dunnits? It definitely sounds interesting. I think I might have Oliver read it to me later!
It's Lyn, all tangled up in a mosquito net. Who did it, Lyn they all screamed in unison!
Moments of silence are scarce in this murderous mansion.
Patrice, it's definitely a murder mystery romance, as well as having a paranormal angle. Keeps you guessing to the end, unless you are particularly brilliant.
That can't be Beth it must be a fake Beth. She wouldn't do all this, would she?
There's a loud thumping on the wooden door. Grabbing another pitch fork he found in the ballroom, he answers the door. Sherlock and Watson enter, Holmes with his magnifying glass.
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