Toulouse, France the Year 2419 The world runs on ranks now. Depending on how much intelligence, looks, and wealth you have. Anyone below the ranks on 70% in more than one category become laborers. People above 70%, but below 30% work their whole lives to become smarter, more beautiful or pray their children will be better. Everything has its own order. It is not without flaws. For example, you can replace your dead children now. It was considered an atrocious idea at first, but later on, it seemed sensible. It helps parents and families "recover" from the emotional trauma losing their children caused them. One such replacement, who was gifted in every way, ranking in the top 1%, realized replacements aren't just for "recovery".
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.