Who was that masked man...? When Mitch Dempsey appeared in Hester Wallace\'s doorway bearing gifts, she knew she should beware. She\'d just moved and didn\'t need trouble in the form of an all-too-attractive downstairs neighbor. Her nine-year old son had no such qualms. When he discovered Mitch was the creator of his favorite comic book here, he was sold.Though Mitch was no Superman, Hester made him feel he could leap tall buildings in a single bound. But could he convince her she needed a hero to call her own?

When Detective Sergeant Harriet is working the night shift in a backwater town in Ireland, she doesn't expect to arrest a fully blown cowboy, bruised and belligerent. She digs into his story and faces up to some home truths of her own.A Why-Done-It.1,989 Words. Includes chapter 1 of The Story of Plan BDetective Sergeant Harriet is working the night shift in a backwater town in Ireland. In the interview room, she is surprised to see a fully blown cowboy, bruised and belligerent.“It was three hours past sundown,” he says. He describes, “some no good wastrel whooping it up with a lady.” Then he clams up like a clenched fist. He will say no more in front of “a lady.” I almost look around for one but he means me. She digs the truth out of him, and in getting him to acknowledge his influences, finds some truths out about her own.Please note: This is a COMPLETE short story, 1,989 words. I think one of the reviewers has the wrong end of the stick. At the end of the short story is the first chapter of my full length novel. You can skip it if you like!

★★★★ "A must read addition to the Exiles series that leaves you wanting more," "has to be the most exciting of the books so far," - Reedsy Discovery★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "C.R. Dempsey is an extraordinary storyteller who paints a fascinating tapestry of the turbulent time in Irish history, a setting that is stunningly imagined and vividly constructed, allowing readers detailed images of the clashes between the rebels and the English crown, the betrayals, and espionage that characterized the political atmosphere of the time." – The Book Commentary★★★★ "'Traitor Maguire' has its full quota of gory and blood soaked action, shadowy double dealing and intrigue and bursts of dialogue that are as Irish as the peat in this rip roaring book." – The Historical Fiction Company Eunan's meteoric rise through the Maguire...

'A dark, disturbing and gripping read ... Sharon Dempsey will be one to watch!' Claire Allan, USA Today bestselling author 'They're dead. They're all dead. It's my fault. I killed them.' Those are the words of Iona Gardener, who stands bloodied and staring as she confesses to the murder of four people in a run-down cottage outside of Belfast. Outside the cottage, five old dolls are hanging from a tree. Inside the cottage, the words "WHO TOOK EDEN MULLIGAN?" are graffitied on the wall, connecting the murder scene with the famous cold case of Eden Mulligan, a mother-of-five who went missing during The Troubles. But this case is different. Right from the start. Because no one in the community is willing to tell the truth, and the only thing DI Danny Stowe and forensic psychologist Rose Lainey can be certain of is that Iona Gardener's confession is false.... A creepy, gritty and very compelling crime novel, perfect for fans of Patricia Gibney, Angela Marsons and Jane Casey.

A gripping action packed historical thriller set in the rebellion in Ireland in the 1590s. In the wild lands of Ireland, the embers of the Irish rebellion still burn bright. Eunan Maguire seemingly has all he ever dreamed of, a command in the rebel army, a prestigious marriage to cement a Maguire alliance and control of his family lands. But all is not well for such lofty heights bring much responsibility and many enemies. Eunan discovers a large downside to his marriage for he needs to live up to the expectations of his new father-in-law. War returns and he also must prove himself worthy of the position he has been given for contemplate defeat would be the end of the clan. Stifling the greed and ambition of the Sheriff of Sligo, he has made him his mortal enemy. In the meantime, a friendship wanes for Seamus MacSheehy but the return of the war throws them back together again. Both will have their loyalties tested to...

<h2>One man fights to destroy his family, another to save his. Only one can be victorious.<br></h2><p>Ireland 1594. Eunan's village is destroyed, the rebellion appears over. As the forces of the English crown pillage the countryside, the rebel leader goes into hiding. Eunan's past has come back to haunt him.</p><p><br></p><p>Eunan goes forth to seek the rebel leaders. He must take control of his family lands and turn them from supporting the crown to declaring for the rebellion.</p><p><br></p><p>All that stands before him are the forces of the crown, the deserted ranks of the rebellion and the minor matter of his own family.</p><p><br></p><p>Meanwhile, Seamus faces a dilemma. Consequences from the past loom large. He must save his own family, but to do so could stop the rebellion in its tracks.</p><p><br></p><p><em>Who will...

A holiday short story set on the idyllic Greek Island of Paros. Come swim in the wine dark sea, sip retsina in the shade and enjoy Moira's attempts to subvert the course of Greek justice in defence of the beautiful but narcissistic boyfriend, Sean.Includes Chapter 1 of The Story of Plan B.Moira has followed the beautiful Sean to the idyllic Greek island of Paros for the summer. They swim in the wine dark sea and eat Greek delicacies but there's trouble in paradise; Sean is even more in love with himself than Moira is. It takes an arrest, a few drinks and a limping policeman for Moira to take control.

The revelry after the victory at Yellow Ford could not mask the tragedy that followed. Seamus and Eunan were dealt a devastating blow. They were left with a grim determination to seek revenge by any means, even leading the rebellion against their oppressors. The Curse of Black Mountain hung over Seamus as his ultimate challenge lay ahead: returning to Munster where his clan had been decimated and family murdered, to reclaim what was stolen from him. Eunan, likewise, was determined to face these same forces—not only for vengeance, but to rescue the woman he loved.What awaited them when they arrived? Would the remains of the MacSheehy welcome Seamus back with open arms? Can Eunan protect himself from his adversaries or would they win and take his life? The Curse of Black Mountain is the fifth book in the epic Irish historical fiction Exiles series.Set during the Elizabethan wars in Ireland in the 1590s, it...

For King, for country, for family. Stranded on the unforgiving shores of Ireland, Francisco Butero, a captain of the once-mighty Spanish Armada, must summon all his strength and wits to stay alive. The land is divided between English occupation and bloody inter-clan warfare and there is a large price on the heads of survivors of the Armada. As he fights to survive against the unrelenting pursuit of the cunning English soldiers, he must also navigate the treacherous landscape of rival clans all vying for power. Despite the unforgiving environment and the constant danger posed by his enemies, Francisco remains resolute in his mission to reunite with his family in Spain. Every step is a battle for survival against nature and his foes, but his determination may not be enough to overcome the seemingly insurmountable obstacles ahead. He must confront his deepest fears and doubts as he struggles to find a way back home....

(Beauty Queen Mysteries #5) Ms America Happy Pennington can't sing a note, but that doesn't keep her from landing a consulting gig on a Broadway musical. All would be A-OK on the Great White Way were it not for one hitch: a death on stage during a preview performance.Might it be murder? Happy has to wonder ...For the deceased had oodles of enemies, including a big-time producer in search of another mega-hit; an A-list rival for a to-die-for Manhattan co-op; and a sultry stage photographer who just can't stop filming Happy's husband—especially when he's got his clothes off.Heartthrob show host Mario Suave puts in an appearance, too. Because even though he's dating a sexy soap star, he just can't stay away from everybody's favorite beauty queen ...Find out why readers call Happy Pennington "the next Stephanie Plum" and the Beauty Queen Mysteries "a giggle a minute" ...Author Diana Dempsey never competed in beauty pageants but she did the next best thing: she worked in TV news. After...

This story is about resistance and survival in a system that will eventually enslave all within its grasp. For within the distant future the world as we know it has changed. Surveillance systems will monitor all citizens enforcing them to comply by the rules of the United World of Nations. Within South Africa a group of radical extremists form their own survival communities. This is seen as a breeding ground for extremists and as a threat to the rule of government. Operation Clean Sweep descends upon a Christian Kibbutz in the Cederberg. This is their story of survival against a world of the future.This is not science fiction, but a logical conclusion that will eventually lead to the establishment of a New World Order.The year is 2028.

Los Angeles television news anchorwoman Natalie Daniels's husband has just dumped her, her boss is scheming to replace her, and her young protg is moving in for the kill. On top of that, she's hopelessly in love with her agent, who's preparing to propose to another woman. Now, Natalie is about to teach everyone around her a few lessons--even if it takes all her courage to do it. (August)

When the governor of the Central Bank and his young granddaughter are captured by the arch criminal, Myles Moran, and held for a huge ransom, Danny Dempsey is called upon by Superintendent Clifford for assistance in tracking down the gang and rescuing the hostages. With the help of Danny's animal friends, his transforming alligator, Charlie, rookie Garda Harrington and henpecked Mr. Pearson, the dangerous mission is on. Will it be successful before the deadline set by the kidnappers runs out? Or will Moran carry out his threat to shoot the hostages if his demands are not met in time? And how will the team discover the location of the ingeniously camouflaged hideout where the hostages are being held? What will happen when they encounter Teddy Tattoo, Moran's giant slave, whose supernatural powers defy all the laws of gravity and nature? Can Danny's own special abilities save the day? It's touch and go right to the end.

Known for page-turning romantic novels that keep you reading late into the night, Diana Dempsey delivers a suspenseful tale about a man and a woman who must shed the past to embrace the future … Annette Rowell’s latest novel is leapfrogging up the bestseller lists, and with every surge in sales she’s becoming more of a household name. The literary success she’s struggled so hard for would be a dream come true were it not for the killer preying on bestselling authors.Reid Gardner hosts a syndicated crime show dedicated to capturing the most dangerous fugitives. The former LAPD cop knows only too well how violence can shatter lives. No victim arouses his ardor more than the pretty brunette author who’s become the target of a psychopath. Yet falling in love with her could cost him not only the reputation he’s spent years building, but the one killer who forever eludes him …About the AuthorDiana Dempsey traded in an Emmy-winning career in TV news to write fast, fun romance fiction. Her debut novel, FALLING STAR, was nominated for a RITA award for Best First Book by the members of Romance Writers of America. It centers on the personal and professional travails—and eventual triumphs—of a primetime anchorwoman. TO CATCH THE MOON, a Romantic Times Top Pick, combines a murder mystery with a love triangle. TOO CLOSE TO THE SUN goes behind the glossy veneer of a Napa Valley winery to find forbidden love, intrigue, and betrayal. CHASING VENUS is a romantic suspense about Annie Rowell, who discovers that being a best-selling novelist can be a killer ... Since Diana enjoys the occasional well-executed murder, she also writes a cozy mystery series. MS AMERICA AND THE OFFING ON OAHU introduces beauty queen and budding sleuth Happy Pennington, who must clear her name when her fiercest competitor tumbles dead out of the isolation booth during the pageant finale. MS AMERICA AND THE VILLAINY IN VEGAS finds Happy in Sin City for the over-the-top nuptials of pageant-wear purveyor Sally Anne Gibbons, only to have the best man turn up dead. In her dozen years in TV news, the former Diana Koricke played every on-air role from network correspondent to local news anchor. Born and raised in Buffalo, New York—Go, Bills!—Diana is a graduate of Harvard University and the winner of a Rotary International Foundation Scholarship. She enjoyed stints in Belgium, the U.K., and Japan, and now lives in Los Angeles with her husband and a West Highland White Terrier, not necessarily in that order. Diana loves to hear from readers! Visit www.dianadempsey.com to email her and sign up to her mailing list to hear first about her new releases. Also join her on Facebook at DianaDempseyBooks and follow her on Twitter at Diana_Dempsey.

It had been fifteen years since Cole Dempsey had set foot in Azalea Bend, Louisiana -- or laid eyes on Bryn Louvel, the beautiful girl who'd betrayed him. He had come home to uncover the truth no matter what the cost...even if it meant risking his heart to Bryn once more. Little was left of the tender boy she had adored before her sister's murder turned their carefree world upside down. Now Bryn was completely vulnerable to an embittered stranger hell-bent on raking up painful memories and rekindling a passion that burned even hotter. She couldn't deny Cole Dempsey was a man on a mission. But was it a second chance at happiness...or revenge?

(Beauty Queen Mysteries #4)Beauty queen Happy Pennington loves Christmas, but this year murder gets in the way of the tinsel and the candy canes ...In snowy small-town Minnesota—where Happy and her beauty-queen BFFs are cutting the ribbon at a new big-box store—Happy discovers that nothing, and no one, is what it seems. Society matrons worship Norse goddesses. Victorian mansions hide salacious secrets. And prominent families feud in the strangest ways. Maybe that's why Happy's host ends up dead.Just in time, heartthrob Mario Suave swoops in to help Happy any way he can—especially under the mistletoe. That mystery, too, is Happy's to unwrap ...Find out why readers call this a "laugh-out-loud" mystery series that's "superfab fun."* *Author Diana Dempsey never competed in beauty pageants but she did the next best thing: she worked in TV news. After a dozen years as an Emmy-winning anchor and reporter, Diana hung up her mic to become an author...

Product DescriptionIn a world where death is a thing of the past, how far would you go to solve your own murder? NYPD detective Paul Donner and his wife Elise were killed in a hold-up gone wrong. Fifty years later, Donner is back: revived courtesy of the Shift. Supposedly the unintended side-effect of a botched biological terrorist attack and carried by a ubiquitous retrovirus, the Shift jump-starts dead DNA and throws the life cycle into reverse, so reborns like Donner must cope with the fact that they are not only slowly youthing toward a new childhood, but have become New York''s most hated minority. With New York quarantined beneath a geodesic blister, government and basic services have been outsourced by a private security corporation named Surazal. Reborns and infected norms alike struggle in a counterclockwise world, where everybody gets younger, you can see Elvis every night at Radio City Music Hall, and nobody has any hope of ever seeing the outside world. Lost in a sea of nostalgia, NYC becomes an inwardly focused schizophrenic culture of alienation and loss. In this backwards-looking culture where only some of the dead have returned, Donner is haunted by revivers guilt, and becomes obsessed with finding out who killed him and his non-returning wife. Little does he know, strange forces have already begun tracking him. Donner isn''t the only one obsessed with the past.

(Series#2) "Superfab fun mystery" ... "A giggle a minute" ... "Happy might be the next Stephanie Plum!"So say readers of the debut mystery in the Ms America series, MS AMERICA AND THE OFFING ON OAHU. Now beauty queen and budding sleuth Happy Pennington returns, this time to gaudy, garish Las Vegas ...When Happy pulls bridesmaid duty for pageant-wear purveyor Sally Anne Gibbons, the last thing she expects to find at the altar is a corpse. But at these over-the-top nuptials that's what she gets: a dead best man and a groom who just might be the killer.Sometimes it seems everybody in Sin City has a secret, from the cocktail waitress trying to land a reality-show gig to the silver-haired cougar with a penchant for blackjack dealers. Maybe hunky pageant emcee Mario Suave is hiding something, too: like the hots for everybody's favorite beauty queen ...* *Author Diana Dempsey never competed in beauty pageants but she did the next best thing: she worked in TV news....

Prosecutor Alicia Maldonado nets a high-profile case when a candidate for governor is murdered. Charismatic TV reporter Milo Pappas shows up to cover the story-only to find himself even more intrigued by the beautiful assistant D.A. than by the courtroom drama. Ethics demand that Alicia and Milo keep their relationship strictly professional. That's easier said than done when passion ignites ...

(Series#1) Happy Pennington finds out it’s not all sequins and silicone when she competes on Oahu for the Ms America crown. When her fiercest competitor tumbles dead out of the isolation booth during the pageant finale, Honolulu PD gets to thinking Happy might have killed her. What’s the only thing a beauty queen worth her sash can do? Nab the real killer ... Visit Diana at www.dianadempsey.com

Winemaker Gabby DeLuca is back in gorgeous Napa Valley, nursing a broken heart and doing her best to create wonderful vintages she can be proud of. Then hotshot financier Will Henley appears on the scene, prowling for an acquisition. Will could be big trouble - for Gabby’s heart as well as her winery. Or his ingenious proposition might just prove to be the best deal of both their lives ...

A short horror story of 4200 words. When Dempsey accidentally kills her uncle she’s a little bit shocked to say the least, but she’s more shocked about the fact she’s gone into early labour. As she battles through contraction pains and wonders what to do with Uncle Dorchester’s body, she’s filled with dread when she realises that Uncle Dorchester’s two best mates, Ralfie and Jonesy, witnessed the whole incident. Now, for the sake of her baby, Dempsey prepares to do anything she can to get away with murder…

Winner of the 2017 Maureen Egen Writers Exchange Award from Poets & Writers "In a time when religious liberty is on trial, [this] is an extraordinarily pertinent novel dripping in suspense and powerful scenes of political discourse ... a must-read ...." —FOREWORD (starred review) "Beautifully written ... An ambitious and moving debut novel." —Lily King, author of the award-winning national bestseller Euphoria In 2009, eighty-five-year-old art professor Ludka Zeilonka gets drawn into a political firestorm when her grandson, Tommy, is among a group of gay Massachusetts teachers fired for allegedly silencing Christian kids in high school classrooms. The ensuing battle to reinstate the teachers raises the specter of Ludka's World War II past—a past she's spent a lifetime trying to forget. Radio host Warren Meck has been leading the Massachusetts campaign to root out anti-religious bias in public schools—but he believes in working...

The complete box set of The Lost Chambers trilogy, featuring books 1-3 in the bestselling Sean Wyatt Adventure series. Get the first three novels in the series readers are calling "the new Indiana Jones." *** This collection is nearly 1000 pages of thrills, mystery, and adventure and includes the first three books in the best-selling Sean Wyatt series plus a bonus companion novella, The Lost Canvas.***MEET SEAN WYATTIn his former life, Sean Wyatt was a trained killer. When the government needed something done quietly, he was the guy they called. Life in covert missions took it's toll, though, and he finally made a change, taking a job with a friend's artifact recovery agency. He was looking for purpose and a life where bullets aren't always coming his way. What he got was more trouble than he bargained for. THE SECRET OF THE STONES- Forever running from his demons, Sean Wyatt goes to work for the...