Geoff Koch has been kidnapping, killing, and eating children for 11 years undetected; but he's getting cocky and reckless. One day he's discovered. He doesn't know by who, or what. The authorities were never called, no one was ever told, as far as he knew. The only clues are little notes left throughout his house, bearing a confusing variety of messages, some are notes of adoration, while others are disturbingly violent and come with a 'trophy'. All of them are signed "The Distortionist". Will he find who, or what, is leaving them? What do they want? Will he get out of this alive? Will he get out of this human?
A criminal mastermind makes a bold move against a wealthy client to put himself in a position to retire in comfort. He has no idea what he's up against when a young widow, desperate to make ends meet, sets her eyes on earning the bounty set on his head.
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Newly widowed housewife Melody Scott needs to earn some major cash, fast. When her bright and busy children learn that a priceless ruby bracelet has been stolen and a six-figure reward is being offered, they convince her to try to do what the police, museum security, and the best private investigators have failed to do. Working against them is a notorious thief who has met people from around the world, but who has never once encountered a woman like Melody Scott. When the sweet innocence of the Scott family clashes against criminal forces more dangerous than they ever imagined, Melody is all too aware that a mom's got to do what a mom's got to do to protect her family.
The Widow, Melody Scott is a 2021 Watty Award Winner!
Content Warning: This story does contain depictions of stalking behavior.