DOUBLE CROSSING
Lily Granville and Ace Diamond Square Off
What do you get when you pair up a wealthy, well-bred heiress – sheltered and educated with an impulsive streak – and a gambling, mercenary Texan cowboy?
Double Crossing is a twist on “True Grit” but it takes place on the 1869 Iron Horse – months after the Union and Central Pacific railroad lines joined at Promontory Point. Nineteen-year-old Lily Granville is stunned with her father is murdered and vows to track the killer across the country to California - who also stole a valuable gold mine deed.
Once Lily arrives in Omaha, she discovers that someone is now tracking her. Could it be the killer? And why? Lily decides to enlist “Ace” Diamond, who agrees to protect her – for a price.
Q for Lily – how did you feel when you first met Ace?
A – Since he literally crashed his way into my life, I did feel a twinge of compassion… he was injured from a brawl. I felt it my Christian duty to help… until I caught sight of his Confederate belt buckle with the Texas Lone Star. I *know* my father would never have approved of an ex-Rebel soldier – and that deepened my guilt. However, after someone searched my hotel room and my personal belongings, I had no choice but to hire Ace Diamond for protection. He was the most unlikely “angel” as an answer to prayer! I suppose beggars can’t be choosers.
Q for Ace – what was your first impression of Lily?
A – First time I set eyes on that pretty filly, all golden-haired and sweet, with the most kissable mouth, I was bushwhacked. Couldn’t remember my own name.
Q for Lily – were you surprised that Ace bargained with you over his fee?
A – To be truthful, I was. I offered him a fair wage, but then he demanded an exorbitant amount in addition to the expense of a Pullman ticket! But it made sense that he had to be near on the train. Still, he insisted receiving a bonus once we reached California in safety. I was furious when I heard that Ace had bragged to about that bonus I promised my uncle would pay. And that was before we were halfway across the country. Mr. Diamond was quite presumptuous. And forward, given his roving—let’s just say he’s no gentleman. I shouldn’t have been surprised!
Q for Ace – why did you accept Lily’s offer?
A – Easy as ropin' a baby steer, riding shotgun on a train. But that stubborn little gal sure fooled me. I earned my fee and bonus. And then some.
Q for Lily – before the railroad trip, what was your dream for a happy future?
A – I wanted… well, I wasn’t really certain what I wanted. I didn’t want to serve as a missionary to China. Father wanted me to marry and provide him with grandchildren. He said I deserved a decent man, a good provider and one who supported my ideas. I wanted to experience adventure and independence, but I didn’t expect to lose so much. My father, my pet lizard in the lovely garden, my home in Evanston—everything changed after the murder. I was devastated, I must admit, but I *had* to see justice done.
Q for Ace – what about your dream for a happy future?
A – A good woman in a nice, cozy bed. I’ve got my eye on a certain woman now.
Hmm -- seems Ace is a man of few words. Lily will soon find herself in hotter water in the sequel, Double or Nothing -- I hope readers are looking forward to more adventures!
Double Crossing – Historical Western Suspense
2012 Western Writers of America BEST FIRST NOVEL Spur Award
A murder arranged as a suicide … a missing deed … and a bereft daughter whose sheltered world is shattered.
August, 1869: Lily Granville is stunned by her father’s murder. Only one other person knows about a valuable California gold mine deed — both are now missing. Lily heads west on the newly opened transcontinental railroad, determined to track the killer. She soon realizes she is no longer the hunter but the prey.
As things progress from bad to worse, Lily is uncertain who to trust—the China-bound missionary who wants to marry her, or the wandering Texan who offers to protect her … for a price. Will Lily survive the journey and unexpected betrayal?
Ebook: ISBN# 978-1-936852-48-2 Print: ISBN # 1466223200
