Brewing Storm

Suspense is one thing in a mystery novel, but a writer can't forget the “pay-off.” A month or more ago, I led our founding father of Six Rivers County, Stanislaus Rittenhaur, and his new bride, Ellen, to the hinterlands of the rainy north coast of California. They left San Francisco behind. Unbeknownst to the happy couple, one disgruntled ex-beau, Randy Galvan, followed them. He had escaped, running from the law. That's where I left it. Suspenseful, and I'm sure you'd like the long awaited pay-off.

Mr. and Mrs. Rittenhaur settled into their new home, built on the edge of a vast forest. The winter months were spent planning landscaping: a kitchen garden with herbs as well as park-like landscaping.They rattled around in the huge house, dreaming of little Rittenhaurs to fill it. And, yes, the fair Ellen was with child, glowing with happiness. Supplies were ordered, most coming by way of the merchant who prospered with all the commerce bound for the mansion in the wilderness. The merchant and his happily plump wife became fast friends with the young couple. Nothing could have been more perfect, even if the rain frequented the little community.

Hiding and lurking along the waterfront, Galvan plotted to get his revenge. If you had asked anyone in the port if they had seen him, the answer would always be no. Even if they knew him, they feared him. Several sailors had been thrashed for calling him out. To support himself, he helped himself to unattended freight, selling it for outrageous prices to desperate homesteaders in the back country. He lived like a wraith, saving his every penny. His comings and goings became a thread in the booming tapestry that would soon be Six Rivers County.

Galvan was there, waiting, under the blind eye of the young Rittenhaurs.

The pay-off is coming. I promise. First, however, the plot must thicken. (Conflict.)