Anastasia Pollack Crafting Mysteries, Books 11-12: Anastasia Pollack Crafting Mysteries Boxed Sets, #6

Copyright

Guilty as Framed copyright 2022 by Lois Winston. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced or distributed in any form or by any means whatsoever without written permission except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews that include credit to the author.

No content contained within this work was generated using artificial intelligence (AI). The content contained within this work may not be regenerated, repurposed, or processed using AI in any capacity, as this work is not part of the public domain.

To avoid doubt, this work may not be used in any manner to train AI technologies to generate text, including, without limitation, technologies capable of generating works in the same style or genre as the work.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, locations, or events is coincidental or fictionalized.

A Crafty Collage of Crime copyright 2023 by Lois Winston. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

No content contained within this work was generated using artificial intelligence (AI). The content contained within this work may not be regenerated, repurposed, or processed using AI in any capacity, as this work is not part of the public domain.

To avoid doubt, this work may not be used in any manner to train AI technologies to generate text, including, without limitation, technologies capable of generating works in the same style or genre as the work.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, locations, or events is coincidental or fictionalized.

Cover design by L. Winston

Acclaim for the Anastasia Pollack Crafting Mysteries

Assault with a Deadly Glue Gun

Crafty cozies don’t get any better than this hilarious confection...Anastasia is as deadpan droll as Tina Fey’s Liz Lemon, and readers can’t help cheering as she copes with caring for a host of colorful characters. – Publishers Weekly (starred review)

Winston has hit a homerun with this hilarious, laugh-until-your-sides-hurt tale. Oddball characters, uproariously funny situations, and a heroine with a strong sense of irony will delight fans of Janet Evanovich, Jess Lourey, and Kathleen Bacus. May this be the first of many in Winston’s Anastasia Pollack Crafting Mystery series. – Booklist (starred review)

A comic tour de force...Lovers of funny mysteries, outrageous puns, self-deprecating humor, and light romance will all find something here. – ForeWord Magazine (Book-of-the-Year nominee)

North Jersey’s more mature answer to Stephanie Plum. Funny, gutsy, and determined, Anastasia has a bright future in the planned series. – Kirkus Reviews

...a delightful romp through the halls of who-done-it. – The Star-Ledger

Make way for Lois Winston’s promising new series...I’ll be eagerly awaiting the next installment in this thoroughly delightful series. – Mystery Scene Magazine

...once you read the first few pages of Lois Winston’s first-in-series whodunit, you’re hooked for the duration... – Bookpage

...madcap but tough-as-nails, no holds barred plot and main character...a step above the usual crafty cozy. – The Mystery Reader

...Anastasia is, above all, a JERSEY girl..., and never, ever mess with one of them. I can’t wait ‘til the next book in this series... – Suspense Magazine

Anastasia is as crafty as Martha Stewart, as feisty as Stephanie Plum, and as resourceful as Kinsey Millhone. – Mary Kennedy, author of the Talk Radio Mysteries

"Fans of Stephanie Plum will love Lois Winston’s cast of quirky, laughable, and loveable characters. Assault with a Deadly Glue Gun is clever and thoroughly entertaining—a must read!" – Brenda Novak, New York Times best-selling author

What a treat—I can’t stop laughing! Witty, wise, and delightfully clever, Anastasia is going to be your new best friend. Her mysterious adventures are irresistible—you’ll be glued to the page! – Hank Phillippi Ryan, Agatha, Anthony, and Macavity award-winning author

You think you’ve got trouble? Say hello to Anastasia Pollack, who also happens to be queen of the one-liners. Funny, funny, funny—this is a series you don’t want to miss! – Kasey Michaels, USA Today best-selling author

Death by Killer Mop Doll

Anastasia is a crafting Stephanie Plum, surrounded by characters sure to bring chuckles as she careens through the narrative, crossing paths with the detectives assigned to the case and snooping around to solve it. – Booklist

Several crafts projects, oodles of laughs and an older, more centered version of Stephanie Plum. – Kirkus Reviews

In Winston’s droll second cozy featuring crafts magazine editor Anastasia Pollack...readers who relish the offbeat will be rewarded. – Publishers Weekly

"...a 30 Rock vibe...Winston turns out another lighthearted amateur sleuth investigation. Laden with one-liners, Anastasia’s second outing (after Assault With a Deadly Glue Gun) points to another successful series in the works." – Library Journal

Winston...plays for plenty of laughs...while letting Anastasia shine as a risk-taking investigator who doesn’t always know when to quit. – Alfred Hitchcock Mystery Magazine

Revenge of the Crafty Corpse

Winston peppers the twisty and slightly edgy plot with humor and plenty of craft patterns. Fans of craft mysteries will like this, of course, but so will those who enjoy the smart and snarky humor of Janet Evanovich, Laura Levine, and Laura DeSilverio. – Booklist

Winston’s entertaining third cozy plunges Anastasia into a surprisingly fraught stew of jealousy, greed, and sex... and a Sopranos-worthy lineup of eccentric character... – Publishers Weekly

Winston provides a long-suffering heroine, amusing characters, a...good mystery and a series of crafting projects featuring cloth yo-yos. – Kirkus Reviews

A fun addition to a series that keeps getting stronger. – Romantic Times Magazine

"Chuckles begin on page one and the steady humor sustains a comedic crafts cozy, the third (after Death by Killer Mop Doll)... Recommend for Chris Grabenstein (John Ceepak series) and Jess Lourey readers." – Library Journal

You'll be both surprised and entertained by this terrific mystery. I can't wait to see what happens in the Pollack household next. – Suspense Magazine

The book has what a mystery should...It moves along at a good pace...Like all good sleuths, Anastasia pieces together what others don’t...The book has a fun twist...and it’s clear that Anastasia, the everyday woman who loves crafts and desserts, and has a complete hottie in pursuit, will return to solve another murder and offer more crafts tips... – Star-Ledger

Decoupage Can Be Deadly

"Decoupage Can Be Deadly is the fourth in the Anastasia Pollock Crafting Mysteries by Lois Winston. And it’s the best one yet. More, please!" – Suspense Magazine

What a great cozy mystery series. One of the reasons this series stands out for me as a great one is the absolutely great cast of characters. Every single character in these books is awesomely quirky and downright hilarious. This series is a true laugh out loud read! – Books Are Life–Vita Libri

This is one of these series that no matter what, I’m going to be laughing my way through a comedy of errors as our reluctant heroine sets a course of action to find a killer while contending with her eccentrically dysfunctional family. This adventure grabs you immediately delivering a fast-paced and action-filled drama that doesn’t let up from the first page to the surprising conclusion. – Dru’s Book Musings

Lois Winston’s reluctant amateur sleuth Anastasia Pollack is back in another wild romp. – The Book Breeze

A Stitch to Die For

"A Stitch to Die For is the fifth in the Anastasia Pollack Crafting Mysteries by Lois Winston. If you’re a reader who enjoys a well-plotted mystery and loves to laugh, don’t miss this one!" – Suspense Magazine

Scrapbook of Murder

This is one of the best books in this delightfully entertaining whodunit and I hope there are more stories in the future. – Dru’s Book Musings

"Scrapbook of Murder is a perfect example of what mysteries are all about—deft plotting, believable characters, well-written dialogue, and a satisfying, logical ending. I loved it!" – Suspense Magazine

"I read an amazing book recently, y'all — Scrapbook of Murder by Lois Winston, #6 in the Anastasia Pollack Crafting Mysteries. All six novels and three novellas in the series are Five Star reads." – Jane Reads

Well written, with interesting characters. – Laura’s Interests

…a quick read, with humour, a good mystery and very interesting characters! – Verietats

Drop Dead Ornaments

I always forget how much I love this series until I read the next one and I fall in love all over again... – Dru’s Book Musings

"Drop Dead Ornaments is a delightful addition to the Anastasia Pollack Crafting Mystery series. More, please!" – Suspense Magazine

"I love protagonist Anastasia Pollack. She’s witty and funny, and she can be sarcastic at times…A great whodunit, with riotous twists and turns, Drop Dead Ornaments was a fast, exciting read that really kept me on my toes." – Lisa Ks Book reviews

"Drop Dead Ornaments is such a fantastic book…I adore Anastasia! She's clever, likable, fun to read about, and easy to root for." – Jane Reads

"…readers will be laughing continually at the antics of Anastasia and clan in Drop Dead Ornaments." – The Avid Reader

I love this series! Not only is Anastasia a ‘crime magnet,’ she is hilarious and snarky, a delight to read about and a dedicated friend. – Mallory Heart’s Cozies

It is always a nice surprise when something I am reading has a tie in to actual news or events that are happening in the present moment. I don't want to spoil a major plot secret, but the timing could not have been better…Be prepared for a dysfunctional cast of quirky characters. – Laura’s Interests

This is a Tour de Force of a Murder/Mystery. – A Wytch’s Book Review

A series worth checking out. – The Ninja Librarian

I flew through this book. Winston knows how to make a reader turn the page. It’s more than a puzzle to solve—I was rooting for people I cared about. Anastasia Pollack is easy to like, a good mother, a good friend, and in a healthy romantic relationship, the kind of person you’d want on your side in a difficult situation. – Indies Who Publish Everywhere

"Lois Winston’s cozy craft mystery Drop Dead Ornaments is an enjoyable…roller-coaster ride, with secrets and clues tugging the reader this way and that, and gentle climbs and drops of suspense and revelation to keep them reading." – Here’s How It Happened

Anastasia is a take-charge woman with a heart for her family–even her ex-family members who don’t (in my opinion) deserve her kindness… What I like best about Anastasia is how she balances her quest for justice with the needs and fears of her family… I can’t wait to read more of her adventures and the progress of her relationship with her family and her boyfriend. – The Self-Rescue Princess

…a light-hearted cozy mystery with lots of energy and definitely lots of action and interaction between characters. – Curling Up by the Fire

I thought the plot was well thought out and the story flowed well. There were many twists and turns…and I enjoyed all the quirky characters. I was totally baffled as to who the killer was and was left guessing to the very end. – Melina’s Book Blog

(Anastasia’s) wit and sarcasm lend a bit of humor to this cozy, and the story kept me intrigued right up to the end. – The Books the Thing

Handmade Ho-Ho Homicide

Handmade Ho-Ho Homicide is a laugh-out-loud, well plotted mystery, from a real pro! A ho-ho hoot!" – Suspense Magazine

"Merry Crises! Lois Winston has brought back Anastasia’s delightful first-person narrative of family, friends, dysfunction, and murder, and made it again very entertaining! Anastasia’s clever quips, fun stories, and well-deserved digs kept me smiling, and reading the many funny parts to my husband…does that count as two thumbs up in one? What a great journey!" – Kings River Life Magazine

Once again, the author knows how to tell a story that immediately grabbed my attention and I couldn’t put this book down until the last page was read…. This was one of the best books in this delightfully lovable series and I can’t wait to see what exciting adventures await Anastasia and her friends. – Dru’s Book Musings

This was such a fun quick read. I can't wait to read more of this series. – A Chick Who Reads

The story had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. – 5 Stars, Baroness Book Trove

Christmas, cozy mystery, craft, how can I not love this book? Humor, twists and turns, adorable characters make this story truly engaging from the first to the last page. – LibriAmoriMiei

"Take a murder mystery, add some light-hearted humor and weird characters, sprinkle some snow and what you get is Handmade Ho-Ho Homicide—a perfect Christmas Cozy read." –5 stars, The Book Decoder

A Sew Deadly Cruise

"A Sew Deadly Cruise is absolutely delightful, and I was sorry when it was over. I devoured every word!" – Suspense Magazine

"Engaging Drama! Brilliant! A Sew Deadly Cruise earns 5/5 Upgraded Cabins. Winston’s witty first-person narrative and banter keeps me a fan. Loved it!" –Kings River Life

The author knows how to tell a story with great aplomb and when all was said and done, this was one fantastic whodunit that left me craving for more thrilling adventures. – Dru’s Book Musings

The combo of investigating and fun makes for a great read. The author does a good job of keeping the killer a secret. Overall a fun read that cozy fans are sure to enjoy. – Books a Plenty Book Reviews

Winston has a gift for writing complicated cozy mysteries while entertaining and educating. – Here’s How it Happened

Stitch, Bake, Die!

…vivid descriptions, witty banter, and clever details leading to an exciting and shocking conclusion. All making for a page-turner experience to delight cozy fans! – Kings River Life

Lots of action, a bevy of quirky characters, and a treasure trove of secrets add up to another fine read from Lois Winston. – award-winning cozy mystery author Maggie Toussaint

The mystery was nicely executed, with bits and pieces of clues here and there as well as humorous interludes that enhanced the telling of this tale. This is another great addition to this engagingly entertaining series… – Dru’s Book Musings

This is a well-plotted mystery that takes the term ‘crafty old lady’ to new heights. – Mysteries with Character

This story is fast-paced with wacky characters, a fun resort setting, and a puzzling mystery to solve. – Nancy J. Cohen, author of the Bad Hair Day Mysteries

…psychologically intuitive and funny as heck! (Anastasia) kept me smiling throughout the story...The plot, characters, and twists in this mystery are excellent. – Sasscer Hill, award-winning author of the Nikki Latrelle Mysteries

Guilty as Framed

Engaging and clever! – Kings River Life Magazine

"Check out Guilty as Framed, another outrageously funny mystery in (the Anastasia Pollack Crafting Mysteries)" – Suspense Magazine

This is another great entry in the Anastasia Pollack series. – Dru’s Book Musings

Winston not only combines (New) Jersey, well-crafted characters, and tight plotting, but she adds her own interpretation and possible solution to a factual museum art crime. – Debra H. Goldstein, author of the Sarah Blair Mysteries

Author Lois Winston deftly frames the fast-moving investigation…with a dollop of mother-in-law hijinks, mama drama, home renovation, and doggie intervention. – mystery author Maggie Toussaint/Valona Jones

Reading a book in this series is like visiting an old friend. – Nancy J. Cohen, author of the Bad Hair Day Mysteries

A Crafty Collage of Crime

Rich in descriptions of the countryside, and alive with characters you’d recognize if you saw or overheard them, this book held my interest throughout and gave me more than one chuckle. It’s a delightful read. – Kings River Life magazine

Winston imbues her story with current references, an appealing setting, layered plotting, and an unsinkable sleuth. Well done! – Muddy Rose Reviews

"A Crafty Collage of Crime is yet another terrific cozy mystery featuring reluctant amateur sleuth Anastasia Pollack." – Lynn Slaughter, author of Miss Cue

"A Crafty Collage of Crime was a cute, fun, and entertaining read with independent, engaging, and delightful characters, and the mystery was outstanding, too!" – 5-stars, Novels Alive 

"If some days it seems the world is too much with you, I suggest you read A Crafty Collage of Crime. You’ll probably want to go back and read the rest of the series. Anastasia is irresistible." – Judy Alter, award-winning author 

The author’s style of writing was fresh, crisp, and entertaining. She kept the story moving without filler and provided the solution to the murder at just the right time. – Tam Sesto, Cozy Review Crew

Sorry, Knot Sorry

If you like your mysteries with a healthy dose of humor, Winston delivers... A delightful read whether you’re at the beach or in your favorite recliner with a glass of wine. - Kings River Life Magazine

A humorous quick reading release from the real world. – Debra H. Goldstein, author of the Sarah Blair Mysteries

A twisty-turny plot spiked with red herrings and a double shot of moxie. – award-winning author Maggie Toussaint

Lois Winston serves up another fast-paced cozy mystery that will have you chuckling through to the end. Add to your beach reads basket for a fun escape! – Nancy J. Cohen, author of the Bad Hair Day Mysteries

"Sorry Knot Sorry kept me entertained from the first word to the last and I couldn't seem to turn the pages fast enough to see what was going to happen next. If you enjoy a can't put down mystery with laugh out loud moments, great twists and turns, don't miss this one." – 5-stars, Cozy Mystery Review Crew reviewer

Seams Like the Perfect Crime

This is such a page-turning mystery with some truly laugh-out-loud moments. – Sarah Can’t Stop Reading (5 Stars)

Quick read, well-plotted, great characters. This is my favorite book in the series. I can see myself re-reading it many times. – KC Kendler (5 stars)

Seams Like the Perfect Crime is a fun cozy mystery that is sure to delight all fans of the series and genre. – Bonnie Morrison (5 stars)

There is so much humor in this series, and this book definitely didn’t disappoint in that area. The writing is intelligent, imaginative and rings true. I can highly recommend this book and series. – Kara Marks

Anastasia has an unerring instinct when it comes to catching villains. – the killer. –Maggie Toussaint/Valona Jones-award winning mystery author

Guilty as Framed

An Anastasia Pollack Crafting Mystery

By Lois Winston

About Guilty as Framed

An Anastasia Pollack Crafting Mystery

By Lois Winston

When an elderly man shows up at the home of reluctant amateur sleuth Anastasia Pollack, she’s drawn into the unsolved mystery of the greatest art heist in history.

Boston mob boss Cormac Murphy has recently been released from prison. He refuses to believe Anastasia’s assertion that the man he’s looking for doesn’t live at her address and attempts to muscle his way into her home. His efforts are thwarted by Anastasia’s fiancé Zack Barnes.

A week later, a stolen SUV containing a dead body appears in Anastasia’s driveway. Anastasia believes Murphy is sending her a message. It’s only the first in a series of alarming incidents, including a mugging, a break-in, another murder, and the discovery of a cache of jewelry and an etching from the largest museum burglary in history.

But will Anastasia solve the mystery behind these shocking events before she falls victim to a couple of desperate thugs who will stop at nothing to get what they want?

Dedication

To Collin and Elliot for all those hugs and kisses.

Acknowledgments

Years ago, while attending my first mystery convention, an auction was held to raise money for a local charity. Several authors donated the chance to name a character in an upcoming book. Bidding was fierce! That’s when I learned mystery readers love to have characters named after themselves. Since then, I’ve donated a character naming, along with a signed copy of the future book, whenever I’ve attended an event that features a charity auction. I’ve also periodically run character naming contests through my newsletter and did so as I was writing Guilty as Framed. I chose two winners, Jody Tanis and Lournetta (Lori) Smanski. Jody became a news reporter and Lournetta an FBI agent.

Experts are a vital part of an author’s research. No author wants to make egregious errors in their books. I’m so grateful to Brook Terpening, P.J. MacLayne, and Karen McCullough for educating me on the technical workings of cloud servers and the large corporations that use them and to Wes Harris and Wally Lind for their law enforcement expertise.

And finally, as always, special thanks to Donnell Bell and Irene Peterson for their superb editorial skills.

ONE

I know it sounds trite, I said, but I feel like a kid in a candy shop. Zack and I stood over my dining room table as I ogled three dozen different wall and floor tiles spread across a white sheet being used as a neutral backdrop. Marble. Porcelain. Ceramic. Stone. Glass. Polished versus honed. Solids and patterns. Squares, rectangles, and hexagonals. We had spent the afternoon at a local decorating center, narrowing down thousands of choices to the ones currently spread before us. Now I had to settle on my picks for the two bathrooms and a kitchen backsplash.

My tired nineteen fifties suburban rancher with its peeling linoleum floors and cracked Formica countertops was about to undergo a much-needed facelift. Not that I could afford even a minor update, let alone a major renovation. I’d reluctantly agreed to the costly overhaul that someone else was footing.

Two someones, to be precise. My fiancé Zachary Barnes and my neighbor Jesse Konopka.

Zack was paying for the materials as an early wedding present, even though we still hadn’t firmed up a date. Jesse, a contractor, was providing the labor. He insisted as his way of thanking me for figuring out who had tried to kill him a few months ago.

Any we can eliminate? asked Zack.

I stacked the half-dozen twelve-inch patterned tiles. As much as I like these, the designs and colors are not only too trendy, I think they’re too busy for such small bathrooms.

When he exhaled what I interpreted as a sigh of relief, I spun to face him. You hate those! Why didn’t you tell me?

He offered me a sheepish grin. I didn’t want to influence you.

But you’re paying. You should have a say.

On the contrary. It’s why I’m keeping quiet.

From his perch on top of the china cabinet behind us, Ralph squawked. "To the contrary, I have express commandment. A Winter’s Tale, Act Two, Scene Two."

That makes no sense.

Zack chuckled. Are you speaking to Ralph or me?

At the mention of his name, the Shakespeare-quoting African Grey parrot I’d inherited from my great-aunt Penelope Periwinkle flew to Zack’s shoulder and nuzzled his cheek.

I scowled at man and bird. Both.

Zack reached into his shirt pocket and offered Ralph a sunflower seed. If I told you which ones I like, you’d choose them whether you like them or not.

Busted. My guilt runneth over. I returned a sheepish grin of my own.

My name is Anastasia Pollack, AKA Clueless Wife. Fifteen months ago, I learned my deceased husband had gambled us into destitution before conveniently dropping dead in a Las Vegas casino. Convenient for him. Not so convenient for me. Instead of a sizable life insurance policy, Karl Marx Pollack left me with the ultimate trifecta—his communist mother, debt equal to the GNP of a Third World nation, and his loan shark.

If I allowed him, Zack would wipe out my debt and move us to a new home. I won’t let him. My Karl-induced debt is my problem, not his.

Maybe that’s why I’m having such difficulty choosing tiles.

But at that moment the doorbell rang, postponing any further conversation on decision-making. I strode from the dining room, through the living room, to the foyer. When I swung open the front door, I came face-to-face with an elderly man dressed in a moth-eaten topcoat and a well-worn dark brown old-fashioned fedora. Deep wrinkles crisscrossed a sallow complexion in need of a razor. At the sight of me, a puzzled expression settled across his face.

May I help you?

He spoke around an unlit cigar stub clenched in the corner of his mouth. I’m looking for Johnnie D.

You have the wrong house.

I don’t think so.

No one by that name lives here.

He stared over my shoulder into the hallway and shook his head. No, this is definitely the house where Johnnie D. lives. Then he turned his attention back to me. He’s got something of mine. I’ve come to collect it.

Look, I said, moving to close the door on him, I don’t know any Johnnie D. If he lived here at one time, he’s long gone.

He grabbed the door and started to push his way inside. His strength belied his advanced age. Zack came up behind me and grabbed the door to prevent the man from entering. In a forceful tone he asked, Do I need to call the police?

Ralph flew off Zack’s shoulder, emitted a menacing squawk, and transitioned from mild-mannered pet to protective predator. The guy’s eyes grew wide with fear. He dropped his hand and backed away from the entrance. That won’t be necessary.

Then he spun around and made a hasty retreat toward a late model black SUV idling in front of my house. After he jumped into the rear passenger seat, the car sped away. Zack waited until the vehicle had turned the corner before closing the front door.

What was that all about?

Beats me, I said.

Any chance he was looking for Karl?

I shuddered. Had Karl used multiple aliases to borrow money from more than one loan shark? How many more of these cockroaches would eventually show up at my door? I hope not, but from my limited experience with loan sharks, they want their money yesterday. They don’t wait a year or more to collect.

Zack nodded. Valid point. There’s another possibility.

Such as?

Someone named Johnnie D. may have lived here decades ago. If this guy suffers from dementia, he might think he’s still in the twentieth century.

Someone else was behind the wheel of that car.

Zack pulled out his phone. Could be an Uber.

Uber didn’t exist in the twentieth century.

He shrugged. Time isn’t linear for people suffering from dementia.

Who are you calling?

Spader. If the guy has dementia, someone is probably looking for him.

Spader works homicide.

I’m aware of that, but after your latest escapade, he asked me to notify him whenever anything odd occurs. That guy showing up strikes me as odd.

"Whenever? Not if?"

He quirked an eyebrow. You do have a track record.

It’s not like I go around searching out dead bodies.

And yet you keep finding them.

That guy isn’t dead.

But you can’t argue that his showing up here wasn’t odd.

Extremely. Call Spader. I’m going back to mulling over tile.

A few minutes later Zack rejoined me in the dining room. There are no open Silver Alerts anywhere in the tri-state area, but Spader said that could just mean no one has reported the guy missing yet. He asked me to send him a photo from our security camera in case an alert comes in.

He wrapped his arm around my shoulders. Now it’s time to make a commitment.

I smiled and pointed to my engagement ring. I already did.

To tile.

I grabbed three samples off the table. I think we should go classic. Carrera. Basketweave for the bathroom floors. Subway tiles for the showers. Herringbone for the kitchen backsplash.

He squeezed my shoulders. See, that wasn’t so hard, was it?

You really like them?

He grinned. You know me, I’m a classic kind of guy.

I gave him a once-over. Indeed, you are. Classic good looks, definitely. After all, the guy’s DNA had emerged from the same primordial pool as that of Pierce Brosnan, Antonio Banderas, and George Clooney.

Still, classic was not the first adjective to spring to my mind in describing photojournalist Zachary Barnes, unless perhaps classic referred to classic spy, completely secretive regarding a side gig he swears is a figment of my overactive imagination. But I bit my tongue. No matter how much I suspected Zack also worked for one of the D.C. alphabet agencies, he’d only deny it, as he had on numerous occasions. This was a can of slimy wrigglers best left unopened. At least for now. I offered him a smile accompanied by a nod.

~*~

As we prepared to sit down for dinner later that evening, the doorbell rang once again. I’ll get it, said Alex.

I stopped him. Let Zack.

He glanced from me to Zack, then exchanged an odd look with his brother before shrugging. Sure. Go for it.

I’ll explain later, I whispered as my mother-in-law lumbered into the dining room, scowling as she passed Zack.

Got it, said Alex. He shot a quick side-eye toward his grandmother, then placed the garlic bread on the dining room table. Nick followed with the green beans as I settled the lasagna onto a trivet.

A moment later Zack returned with Detective Samuel Spader in tow. Didn’t mean to interrupt your dinner, he said, eyeing the spread on the table.

Would you like to join us, Detective? Knowing Spader, if he didn’t accept, he’d most likely grab a fast-food burger for dinner. He’d never said one way or the other, but I suspected there was no Mrs. Spader or potential Mrs. Spader in his life. We have plenty, I added.

You always have plenty, muttered Lucille, except when I invite my friends.

I ignored her. Lucille and her friends, all Daughters of the October Revolution, were one-direction communists, always taking without asking. In their eyes, what’s mine—or anyone’s—was theirs. Which is why we kept everything from office supplies to wine and liquor locked in the apartment above my garage. Although tempted, I hadn’t yet padlocked the refrigerator or pantry. Which was why I often arrived home to find both nearly empty.

While Detective Spader debated whether to accept my invitation, Zack headed into the kitchen, momentarily returning with an extra plate, glass, and utensils, and set them at the one available spot at the table. Have a seat, Detective.

Spader pulled out the chair and sank into it. Thanks. Been awhile since I’ve had a home-cooked meal.

I didn’t doubt it.

Lucille glared at him from across the table. We were all cognizant of my mother-in-law’s disdain of law enforcement, especially local law enforcement, given her constant run-ins with them, and specifically with Detective Samuel Spader. The feelings were mutual.

Spader never just dropped in. Our relationship had improved since we first met last summer when he suspected Lucille of the strangulation murder of her roommate at the Sunnyside of Westfield Assisted Living and Rehabilitation Center. Hence, her overt animosity.

Several dead bodies later, Spader’s attitude toward me had moved from antagonistic, to reluctant acceptance, to an admiration of my sleuthing skills. However, our interactions had never crossed over into friendship. Spader never stopped by just to say hello. If he was here, it was because he had information about our earlier visitor.

He held my gaze for a moment, offering me an almost imperceptible nod as I served him a large helping of lasagna. I glanced at Zack. He also nodded slightly, a silent consent among the three of us to postpone our discussion until after dinner when we could adjourn to the apartment for privacy.

~*~

Half an hour later, ignoring her dog’s needs, Lucille trundled off to camp out in front of the television in the den. I guess he’s officially my dog now, said Nick, grabbing Devil Dog’s leash.

You’ve been adopted, said Alex as he loaded the dishwasher.

If he’s my responsibility from now on, I’m officially changing his name.

Lucille, the diehard commie, had dubbed her French bulldog Manifesto after the communist treatise. From Day One we had all refused to use the moniker, opting instead for a name more suitable to the dog’s personality. We alternated between Mephisto and Devil Dog. Although in recent months, the pooch had mellowed, turning his back on his mistress, and taking a shine to Nick. Neither Mephisto nor Devil Dog now fit his new personality.

Have something in mind? asked Zack.

Nick cocked his head and studied the subject in question. Devil Dog looked up at him with mournful eyes. I’ll think of something. Right now, he’s telling me he’s really got to go.

My brother the dog whisperer, said Alex.

You’re just jealous of my talents, said Nick, clipping the leash to the dog’s collar.

Grab a jacket, I said as he headed for the back door.

It’s been spring for weeks, Mom.

Not according to the thermometer. I pointed toward the mud room. Jacket. Now.

He pulled a hoodie off a hook and shoved his arms into it. Happy?

Ecstatic. Don’t forget a poop bag.

After Alex finished loading the dishwasher and switched it on, he asked the three of us, So what’s going on with you guys? You haven’t found another dead body, have you, Mom?

No, nothing like that.

Then what?

I told him about the stranger who’d come to the door earlier. Then I turned to Spader. I’m assuming you have some information on him?

Spader nodded. Should we talk here?

We could hear the television blaring from the den. "Once Lucille settles into an evening of 90 Day Fiancé, the house would have to go up in flames for her to budge."

Spader barked out a laugh. You’re kidding! That old commie bat is a reality TV junkie?

As strange as it sounds, said Zack. You on the clock, Detective, or can we offer you an after-dinner drink?

Spader checked the time. I was officially off-duty twenty minutes ago.

When we first met, I was convinced the overweight, middle-aged detective with a fondness for both nicotine and alcohol wouldn’t survive to retirement. However, in the last few months, Spader had trimmed down, no longer reeked of cigarettes, and had lost the telltale ruddiness often associated with alcoholism. I’d probably never know what had inspired his newfound healthy-living regime, but I no longer viewed him as one beer and a drag away from a massive coronary.

Still, I’m not sure I would have tempted fate by offering him a drink.

Zack handed Alex the apartment key and asked him to retrieve a bottle of brandy. Spader raised an eyebrow. I explained why we didn’t keep anything alcoholic in the house. With the meds she’s on, my mother-in-law isn’t allowed to drink, but that doesn’t stop her.

She hasn’t tried to raid the apartment when you’re not home?

She can’t manage the stairs.

I’ve never known an alcoholic to let a flight of stairs stop her, said Spader.

Was he speaking from personal experience?

She also doesn’t have a key, added Zack. And she never will.

When Alex returned with the brandy, Zack splashed a generous amount into glasses for the adults while my son nuked a hot chocolate for himself, then settled into one of the kitchen chairs. I debated asking him to leave, but depending on what Spader had to say, decided he should probably be made aware of the situation.

Spader took a sip of brandy and smacked his lips. Smooth.

Can I assume you’ve learned the identity of our visitor? I asked.

And then some. His name is Cormac Murphy. He was recently released from federal prison after completing most of a twenty-year sentence.

I didn’t like the sound of that. For what?

This time? Counterfeiting and forgery. He’s a career criminal connected to the Boston mob. The Feds once suspected he had information on the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum art heist in Boston back in 1990.

He was a suspect? I asked.

Spader shook his head. Not exactly. Turns out he had an ironclad alibi.

And they believed him? asked Zack. We all know alibis can be bought.

Not this one, said Spader. He was doing time in Leavenworth. The guy’s been in and out of lockup most of his adult life. Back then, he was serving a three-year sentence for armed robbery.

Then why did they think he had information on a burglary in Boston? asked Alex.

They bandied about dozens of theories trying to solve the crime and find the missing artworks. Most centered around Boston’s various mobs. One theory suggested members of Murphy’s gang pulled off the heist, but Murphy denied any knowledge of the crime.

Prison sentences have never deterred mob bosses from continuing business as usual, said Zack. Murphy could have orchestrated the heist from behind bars.

I’m sure the cops thought along those lines, said Spader, but neither they nor the Feds could find enough evidence to prove that theory or any of the others.

I’ve been to the Gardner Museum, I said. They display empty frames where the stolen paintings once hung. It’s considered history’s greatest art theft.

Spader nodded. Half a billion dollars’ worth of masterpieces, and they’re all still missing.

Alex whistled under his breath. His eyes bugged out. You mean they’ve never found any of the paintings?

No, said Spader. And most of the suspects are now dead. The case is still open, but it’s going nowhere for obvious reasons.

Why would Murphy show up here? I asked. Do you have any information on this Johnnie D. he claims lived here?

Maybe. Johnnie D. could be John Doyle. One of the prevailing theories is that Murphy’s mob stole the artworks to leverage his release. His driver was Robert Bobby Doyle, one of the FBI’s prime suspects in the heist. They believe he hid the artworks until the manhunt for the thieves waned and he could negotiate Murphy’s release.

Which obviously didn’t happen, I said. What went wrong?

Doyle was brutally murdered about a year and a half after the heist.

Who killed him? asked Alex.

No one knows, said Spader.

Had Doyle begun negotiations? asked Zack.

Spader shrugged. Your guess is as good as mine. According to my sources, the Feds remain mum on the subject.

John Doyle is a common Irish name, I said, but if Johnnie D. is John Doyle, how does he fit into all of this?

Bobby Doyle had a cousin named John Doyle, said Spader.

I’m willing to bet there are dozens of Robert Doyles throughout the Boston area, said Zack, and many of them probably have a cousin named John.

Agreed, said Spader.

Besides, I said, we’re nowhere near Boston. Why would Murphy think he’d find the guy he’s looking for here?

Do you know the name of the family who owned this house before you? asked Spader.

Not offhand. It wasn’t Doyle, though. I’m sure of that. I’d have to look through our records.

I’ll save you the trouble, said Spader. It was Gallagher. Kellen and Shauna Gallagher.

That sounds about right. We never met them. They had moved before we made an offer on the house. Their attorney handled settlement for them.

If I were a betting man, said Spader, I’d put money on the Gallaghers and their young son having entered Witness Protection.

What makes you think that? asked Zack.

Because there’s no trace of them since Murphy’s conviction, and Shauna Gallagher was Johnnie Doyle’s sister.

TWO

"Another was?" asked Zack.

Or is, said Spader. Of course, there’s no way of knowing for sure if the Gallaghers entered WITSEC. The U.S. Marshals don’t divulge that information.

Ever? asked Alex.

I’ve never heard of it happening, said Spader. But I’m a county detective with no skin in this game. No way would anyone give me information on whether someone entered WITSEC, let alone offer me current details about them.

I locked eyes with Zack. He reached for my hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze as I asked Spader, Do you think Murphy showed up here to take revenge on the Gallaghers for something Johnnie D. did?

Doubtful. He could have orchestrated that years ago from prison. These guys don’t wait decades to settle scores. More likely, he thinks Johnnie D. knows where his cousin stashed the artworks.

Assuming Bobby Doyle was involved in the heist, I added. "But even if Johnnie knows where the