Praise for The Gun Also Rises
“A roller-coaster of a mystery penned by a real pro. This series just gets better and better. More, please!”—Suspense Magazine
“Author Sherry Harris never disappoints with her strong, witty writing voice and her ability to use the surprise effect just when you think you have it all figured out!”—Chatting About Cozies
“This series gets better with every book, and The Gun Also Rises continues the trend. If you haven’t started this series yet, do yourself a favor and buy the first one today.”—Carstairs Considers
Praise for I Know What You Bid Last Summer
“I Know What You Bid Last Summer is cleverly plotted, with an engaging cast of characters and a clever premise that made me think twice about my shopping habits. Check it out.”—Suspense Magazine
“Never one to give up, she (Sarah) continues her hunt for the killer in some unlikely and possibly dangerous places. Fans of Harris will appreciate both the clever mystery and the tips for buying and selling at garage sales.”—Kirkus Reviews
“Each time a new Sarah Winston Garage Sale Mystery releases, I wonder how amazing author Sherry Harris will top the previous book she wrote for the series. I’m never disappointed, and my hat’s off to Ms. Harris, who consistently raises the bar for her readers’ entertainment.”—Chatting About Cozies
Praise for A Good Day to Buy
“Sarah’s life keeps throwing her new curves as the appearance of her estranged brother shakes up her world. This fast-moving mystery starts off with a bang and keeps the twists and turns coming. Sarah is a likable protagonist who sometimes makes bad decisions based on good intentions. This ups the action and drama as she tries to extricate herself from dangerous situations with some amusing results. Toss in a unique cast of secondary characters, an intriguing mystery, and a hot ex-husband, and you’ll find there’s never a dull moment in Sarah’s bargain-hunting world.”—RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars
“Harris’s fourth is a slam dunk for those who love antiques and garage sales. The knotty mystery has an interesting premise and some surprising twists and turns as well.”—Kirkus Reviews
“The mystery of the murder in A Good Day to Buy, the serious story behind Luke’s reappearance, the funny scenes that lighten the drama, the wonderful cast of characters, and Sarah’s always superb internal dialogue will keep you turning the pages and have you coming back for book #5.”—Nightstand Book Reviews
Praise for All Murders Final!
“There’s a lot going on in this charming mystery, and it all works. The dialogue flows effortlessly, and the plot is filled with numerous twists and turns. Sarah is a resourceful and appealing protagonist, supported by a cast of quirky friends. Well written and executed, this is a definite winner. Bargain-hunting has never been so much fun!”—RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars
“A must-read cozy mystery! Don’t wear your socks when you read this story ’cause it’s gonna knock ’em off!”—Chatting About Cozies
“Just because Sherry Harris’s protagonist Sarah Winston lives in a small town, it doesn’t mean that her problems are small.... Harris fits the puzzle pieces together with a sure hand.”—Sheila Connolly, Agatha- and Anthony-nominated author of the Orchard Mysteries
“A thrilling mystery.... Brilliantly written, each chapter drew me in deeper and deeper, my anticipation mounting with every turn of the page. By the time I reached the last page, all I could say was . . . wow!”—Lisa Ks Book Reviews
Praise for The Longest Yard Sale
“I love a complex plot and The Longest Yard Sale fills the bill with mysterious fires, a missing painting, thefts from a thrift shop, and, of course, murder. Add an intriguing cast of victims, potential villains, and sidekicks, an interesting setting, and two eligible men for the sleuth to choose between and you have a sure winner even before you get to the last page and find yourself laughing out loud.”—Kaitlyn Dunnett, author of The Scottie Barked at Midnight
“Readers will have a blast following Sarah Winston on her next adventure as she hunts for bargains and bad guys. Sherry Harris’s latest is as delightful as the best garage sale find!”—Liz Mugavero, Agatha-nominated author of the Pawsitively Organic Mysteries
“Sherry Harris is a gifted storyteller, with plenty of twists and adventures for her smart and stubborn protagonist.”—Beth Kanell, Kingdom Books
“Once again Sherry Harris entwines small-town life with that of the nearby Air Force base, yard sales with romance, art theft with murder. The story is a bargain, and a priceless one!”—Edith Maxwell, Agatha-nominated author of the Local Foods mystery series
Praise for Tagged for Death
“Tagged for Death is skillfully rendered, with expert characterization and depiction of military life. Best of all Sarah is the type of intelligent, resourceful, and appealing person we would all like to get to know better!”—Mystery Scene Magazine
“Full of garage-sale tips, this amusing cozy debut introduces an unusual protagonist who has overcome some recent tribulations and become stronger.”—Library Journal
“A terrific find! Engaging and entertaining, this clever cozy is a treasure—charmingly crafted and full of surprises.”—Hank Phillippi Ryan, Agatha-, Anthony-, and Mary Higgins Clark–award-winning author
“Like the treasures Sarah Winston finds at the garage sales she loves, this book is a gem.”—Barbara Ross, Agatha-nominated author of the Maine Clambake Mysteries
“It was masterfully done. Tagged for Death is a winning debut that will have you turning pages until you reach the final one. I’m already looking forward to Sarah’s next bargain with death.”—Mark Baker, Carstairs Considers
The Sarah Winston Garage Sale Mysteries
by Sherry Harris
SELL LOW, SWEET HARRIET
LET’S FAKE A DEAL
THE GUN ALSO RISES
I KNOW WHAT YOU BID LAST SUMMER
A GOOD DAY TO BUY
ALL MURDERS FINAL!
THE LONGEST YARD SALE
and
Agatha-Nominated Best First Novel
TAGGED FOR DEATH
Published by Kensington Publishing Corporation
Sell Low, Sweet Harriet
Sherry Harris
KENSINGTON BOOKS
KENSINGTON PUBLISHING CORP.
www.kensingtonbooks.com
All copyrighted material within is Attributor Protected.
Table of Contents
Praise
Also by
Title Page
Copyright Page
Dedication
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fifteen
Chapter Sixteen
Chapter Seventeen
Chapter Eighteen
Chapter Nineteen
Chapter Twenty
Chapter Twenty-One
Chapter Twenty-Two
Chapter Twenty-Three
Chapter Twenty-Four
Chapter Twenty-Five
Chapter Twenty-Six
Chapter Twenty-Seven
Chapter Twenty-Eight
Chapter Twenty-Nine
Chapter Thirty
Chapter Thirty-One
Chapter Thirty-Two
Chapter Thirty-Three
Chapter Thirty-Four
Chapter Thirty-Five
Chapte
r Thirty-Six
Chapter Thirty-Seven
Chapter Thirty-Eight
Chapter Thirty-Nine
Chapter Forty
Chapter Forty-One
Winter Garage Sale Tips
Teaser chapter
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Grab These Cozy Mysteries from Kensington Books
Follow P.I. Savannah Reid with G.A. McKevett
KENSINGTON BOOKS are published by
Kensington Publishing Corp.
119 West 40th Street
New York, NY 10018
Copyright © 2020 by Sherry Harris
This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events or locales, or persons living or dead, is entirely coincidental.
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any means without the prior written consent of the Publisher, excepting brief quotes used in reviews.
To the extent that the image or images on the cover of this book depict a person or persons, such person or persons are merely models, and are not intended to portray any character or characters featured in the book.
If you purchased this book without a cover you should be aware that this book is stolen property. It was reported as “unsold and destroyed” to the Publisher and neither the Author nor the Publisher has received any payment for this “stripped book.”
Kensington and the K logo Reg. U.S. Pat. & TM Off.
ISBN: 978-1-4967-2251-5
ISBN-13: 978-1-4967-2252-2 (eBook)
ISBN-10: 1-4967-2252-3 (eBook)
To Bob
You’re the best thing that ever happened to me
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
First, thank you to the two men who are behind the scenes with every book: John Talbot of the Talbot Fortune Agency, and Gary Goldstein, my editor at Kensington. When we started this series with a three-book contract, I never dreamed I’d be writing more and starting a new series too. Thank you both for believing in me.
To Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Ken Ribler for talking me through what would happen on a base after a spouse was murdered, that yes, someone like Sarah might be used, and for telling me about the “cops and robbers” meetings. I hope I got it all right.
Ashley Harris (fantastic former neighbor and military spouse), thanks for answering my questions about dining-outs and grog bowls. And always for your knowledge about online garage sales.
Jill Hoagland, another former neighbor and military spouse, who shares her stories with me.
Nancy Frost was my first friend when we were stationed in Los Angeles. We spent many a happy day going to garage sales in her Suburban and managed to be stationed in the same place twice. I miss you every day. Thank you for helping me come up with Sarah’s name and the town of Ellington. Also thank you for sending a link to a real CIA agent’s garage sale. It obviously inspired me.
Michelle Clark, medicolegal death investigator, once again answered my questions. Thank you for taking time out of your very busy life to help me.
Independent editor Barb Goffman once again read an early draft, talked me through many revisions, and stayed my friend when I whined. Thank you!
Mary Titone is one of the best beta readers on the planet. She spots things I missed, pats me on the back or gives a swift (virtual) kick when I need it. Your friendship means the world to me. You make the books better.
Clare Boggs, I can’t write this without tears in my eyes. I miss you mostly because of the amazing friend you were, but also because of your eagle eye with my books. That can’t be replaced.
Christie Nichols, dear neighbor, who dropped everything to do a final read-through for me. You made a great catch and inspired something too.
To The Wickeds—Jessie Crockett, Julie Hennrikus, Edith Maxwell, Liz Mugavero, and Barbara Ross—thank you for your support, your check-ins, and your friendship. You buoy me when I’m down and cheer me when I’m up. Life would be dull without you.
To the friends I’ve made through Sisters in Crime—what a ride. Thanks for your generosity.
And finally to my family. I’ve traveled a lot this year for a variety of reasons. You’ve kept the home fires burning and Lily walked and fed. I love you.
Chapter One
From the back of the base chapel I could see the large photo resting on an easel at the front of the church. Golden light from a stained glass window shone on a picture of a smiling, auburn-haired young woman, dead, murdered right here on Fitch Air Force Base.
I sat on a pew after a couple scooted over for me. The church was packed, standing room only even on a Tuesday morning. I wasn’t sure if it was because they knew Alicia Arbas or were horrified at how she had died. Maybe it was a combination of both. When a tragedy hit a base, especially a smaller one like Fitch, military people pulled together.
I studied the picture of Alicia, her bright smile. She wasn’t me, but she could have been. That’s why her death hit so close to home. Why I was sitting back here listening to the prayers, eulogies, and singing hymns even though I hadn’t known her all that well.
Thirty minutes later the service for Alicia was almost over. There had been a lot of laughter as people shared funny stories, but more tears because Alicia died at the hands of an unknown killer. Someone who lived on base or had, at the very least, been on base. People glanced at each other more often than normal. Were they trying to suss out if their neighbor could have been the one who committed a murder? I worried about what would happen to people, to a community such as this, when they couldn’t trust each other.
We sang the last hymn as the casket was carried out. Alicia’s husband, a young captain, followed, pale and uncomfortable looking in his black suit. The pain in his face seared my soul.
A few minutes later I stepped out of the church. The January wind slashed at my tights-covered legs and pulled at my coat. I scraped at the blond hairs that slapped my face, so I could see where I was going. Lunch was to be served in the church basement, but I was headed to DiNapoli’s Roast Beef and Pizza for food and comfort. I didn’t know Alicia well enough to console anyone. I had paid my respects, said my prayers, so it was time for me to go.
I crossed the parking lot to my car.
“Sarah Winston.”
I turned at the voice. Squinted my eyes in the sun. Scott Pellner, a police officer for the Ellington Police Department, called to me. I almost didn’t recognize him out of uniform and in a suit. He was broad and muscled, a few inches taller than me. His dimpled face grim.
“What are you doing here?” I asked. I had scanned the crowd at the funeral, curious about who’d be there. There had been a large group from the base Spouses’ Club, an OSI agent—the Office of Special Investigations—who I knew, lots of military folks in their uniforms. A few of my friends, but they were too far away to join. I hadn’t spotted Pellner.
“Working the case,” Pellner said.
The base and the town of Ellington, Massachusetts, had memorandums of agreement. When a crime was committed on base but involved a dependent—the spouse or child of the military member—they worked together.
“Do police really go to funerals to see if the killer shows up?” I asked.
“They do in this case,” Pellner said. His voice was as serious as I’d ever heard it.
“No suspects?”
“There’s suspects. But no proof.”
From what I’d heard, at some point in the night almost a week ago, Alicia had gotten up to take their new Labrador puppy out to do its business. We’d had a terrible ice storm that day and a thick coat of ice caked everything. The house I lived in looked like it had been wrapped in glass. And when I’d gone to bed that night I had heard tree branches across the street on the town common, snapping under the weight of the ice. Later chunks fell off the house as a warm front swept through from the south and I was grateful to be snug in my bed.
Early in the m
orning Alicia’s husband woke to the sound of the puppy barking and crying. He found the sweet thing scratching at the back door—shivering but otherwise okay. After calling for Alicia, he found her sprawled in the backyard with a head wound. Ice shattered around her. At first everyone had thought it was a terrible accident. But later the medical examiner discovered the wound might not have been an accident. When Alicia had first been found the scene wasn’t treated as a crime scene, so any evidence had melted away. No footprints, no nothing.
“Who are the suspects?” I asked. I assumed the husband. He had to be on the list as the last person to have seen her.
“Did you know her?” Pellner asked.
Of course he wasn’t going to answer my question. I shouldn’t have bothered asking. “We occasionally crossed paths at the base thrift shop.”
“Do you know who her friends are?”
I shook my head. “No. And I don’t know who doesn’t like her either.” That’s what he really wanted to know.
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