by: Barbara Howard
Series: The Clover City Files
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Release Date: February 19, 2024
The Taste of Rain
Novella, multi-generational, diverse, young adult, clean, cozy, college town.
In “The Taste of Rain”, we follow the story of Amira, a college student who works part-time as a health aide at a local nursing home. One day, she meets an elderly resident, Claire Stewart, who confides in her that her husband was killed years ago, but nobody believed her.
Amira is hesitant to believe Claire at first, but as she gets to know her better, she realizes that there might be some truth to her story. Amira decides to investigate the case and help Claire find the killer.
She must navigate through the complexities of the past and present to find the truth and bring justice for Claire.
Along the way, Amira faces challenges both personally and professionally. She must balance her college studies with her part-time job and her investigation. She also learns to confront her own biases and assumptions about aging and the elderly.
“The Taste of Rain” is a mystery that explores the themes of trust, aging, and justice. It is a heartwarming tale of the unlikely friendship between a young college student and an elderly resident, as they work together to uncover the truth, and solve a decades-old murder.
The Spice Code
Culinary Cozy novella, multi-generational, diverse, young adult, clean, college town.
In the heart of a quiet college town, restaurant owner and chef, Raphael Parera, finds himself entangled in a web of deception that threatens not only his culinary career but his very life. Charmed by the enigmatic beauty of his new girlfriend, Isabella, Raphael is unaware of the darkness lurking beneath her captivating smile.
As their relationship deepens, Raphael suddenly disappears without a trace, leaving his cousin, Amira Cooper, frantic with worry. Unbeknownst to Isabella, he manages to send a cryptic message through a seemingly innocent bag of groceries – a silent clue hidden within a recipe’s ingredients.
Desperate to save her beloved cousin, Amira embarks on a perilous journey to decipher the clues concealed within the grocery bag. Will Amira decipher the ingredients’ hidden meanings in time to rescue Raphael, or will Isabella’s twisted game end in a tragedy that will forever alter their lives? Get ready to indulge in a mystery where every twist and turn will leave you craving more.
THE SPICE CODE by Barbara Howard
Raphael dropped to the ground and came up swinging. “That badge can only protect you so far.”
“I told you to stay back.” The police officer dodged the blow and shoved him back on his heels.
Amira pulled her cousin’s arm back and coaxed him to join her on the curb.
“C’mon Raffie. You don’t want to start a fight over nothing. Besides, we don’t know what’s going on so let’s stay out of the way.”
Raphael moved slowly along the sidewalk keeping his eyes glued to the officer who circled around the corner toward the parking area.
“Yeah, you’re right. Probably setting up security for another ribbon cutting. Raphael brushed off the seat of his pants, swiped his hair back revealing deep set bags under dark eyes and the tan line across his bronze skin. He gave Amira a little smile, then repositioned his baseball cap, brim-side back. “I’ve got better things to do. Let’s go.”
He scanned the scene of pedestrians strolling along, oblivious to his altercation. The waterfront shopping plaza stood as a shimmering gem along the edge of the lake. Shoppers, tourists, and pedestrians mingled in a tapestry of colors and cultures. The air buzzed with the laughter of carefree visitors who, having indulged in the treasures of the shops, now strolled along the boardwalk. A group of tourists followed a tour guide in a red Clover City Ambassador jumpsuit through the plaza, their arms laden with bags bearing the emblems of opulent brands. They stopped to snap photos of the stunning lake view, admiring the glistening water that stretched as far as the eye could see.
The new luxury shopping plaza, the Crimson Collective, was a spectacular hub of cultural events and a thriving tourist destination. The mayor had doled out a large chunk of the annual budget for redevelopment along Crimson Lake, demolished the abandoned industrial parks, and removed the old pier that had prevented the larger ships from entering the waterway. Travel opened up, and with that, revenue and more plans of expansion.
Amira and Raphael walked along the water’s edge, enjoying the scent of the lake in the gentle breeze. In the distance, a street musician strummed a guitar, filling the air with a melody that seemed to harmonize with the laughter and chatter of the passersby. Luxury yachts and sailboats docked at the marina; their sleek designs added to the picturesque scene. The gentle lapping of the water against the vessels created a soothing backdrop to the plaza's vibrant energy. It was a place where the allure of luxury met the warm embrace of the small college community.
“Raffie, look at all of this. Who would’ve thought Clover City would have something like this?
It’s like we’re in a different world.” Amira said, pointing to the high-end designer boutiques lining the plaza; their storefronts adorned with glistening displays of opulence. Mannequins in the latest fashion trends posed gracefully, flaunting the couture creations. Restaurants with waterfront views offered al fresco dining, where patrons savored gourmet cuisine while basking in the warm sunlight. The smell of freshly prepared seafood wafted from one corner, while the aroma of expertly brewed coffee from a chic café lured caffeine connoisseurs.
“This is the perfect location. Now I see why people are crazy about this place. I’m glad we came today.” Raphael said and slipped on his sunglasses. It was a rare occasion for him to leave the kitchen of his Fat Cat diner. Today was the exception for a good reason.
“Great, you can help me pick out the gifts.” Amira gestured toward the Coastal Couture boutique with the pink and brown awning. "I don’t want to miss the BOGO sale on the Regal Ruche designer bags. I plan to give one to Miss Claire when she gets back from camp.” She glanced at Raphael out of the corner of her eye, “And the other one to Harper for her birthday. You know it’s coming up soon, right?” She tugged on his arm again, but he refused to budge.
“Don’t start that again,” he grumbled.
“I haven’t given up on you two.” Amira turned to face him. “What happened?”
“What happened to what?” He looked past her toward a restaurant at the western end of the boardwalk.
“You know what.” She placed her hands on her hips and wrinkled her brow. “You and Harper. I thought things were going great with you guys. Why did she break things off?”
Raphael snapped back, removed his sunglasses, and frowned. “Why do you assume that she broke up with me?”
“Well, obviously.” Amira lifted her chin and won the staring contest. “I mean, she’s amazing. Why would you- ”
Raphael swallowed hard and cleared his throat. “There’s more to it. You wouldn’t understand.”
“Try me.” She stood her ground.
He shifted his focus back toward the restaurant with a hawk-like gaze that was locked on its prey. “I need someone in my life that can fit in where I’m going. Harper was fun to be with but she’s not-”
“Don’t say it.”
“Respectfully, Mimi. She’s not the type I want with me for the long haul. I’m trying to go further in my career as a chef. Bigger things. Beyond the diner. you know?”
“Everyone loves the Fat Cat.” Her pride radiated through her smile. “Why do you think Clover City chose you for the Rising Star award? And Foodie Watch magazine voted you the Chef to Watch in the north coast. People love your food. Even the mayor eats there.”
“And I appreciate it. I do.” He cupped her hand and placed it over his heart. “Everything has been going great, so far. But-”
“But what?” She pulled her hand away.
Raphael gripped her shoulders and turned her around, then pointed to the 4-Star restaurant, gleaming like a jewel nestled in the flowy feather reed grasses and dwarf cypress trees.
“That,” he said, passion pouring from his lips with each word. “I’m going after it.”
Amira’s mouth dropped open at the sight.
The facade was adorned in a palette of nautical blues and pristine whites. A grand entrance framed by polished sleek silver accents led guests through double doors. The exterior walls, clad in a rich navy blue, bore subtle textures reminiscent of the ocean's gentle waves. Oversized windows, dressed in billowing white drapes, beckoned for glimpses into a world of refined dining. The restaurant's name, "The Boat House” was displayed in silver lettering that shimmered in the soft glow of strategically placed sconces. The bespoke logo, an intricately designed compass rose, adorned the entrance. The valet stand was a polished silver structure where attendants, clad in smart navy uniforms with silver trim, welcomed arriving guests with practiced grace and deference. The exterior seating area, outfitted with plush navy cushions on silver-framed chairs, offered a panoramic view of the lake. Each table was topped with crisp white linens, nautical-themed centerpieces, and the soft glow of perfectly positioned silver lanterns.
“You’re going to buy the Boat House?” Amira gasped.
He laughed, wrapped his arms around her and rested his chin on her shoulder. “I wish, Mimi. I dream every night about it. Isn’t she beautiful?”
“I guess.” She shrugged. “If you like to sit around snobs and give up a week’s paycheck for one meal.” She glanced at him out of the corner of her eye. “When did that become your kind of thing? What’s wrong with the food truck and diner that you already have?”
“One day it will be mine.” He stepped in front of her for an unobstructed view of his desire. “The owner is almost 80 years old. In this business, he should’ve retired twenty-thirty years ago. I hear he’s ready to sell but still wants to keep his hands in the place. I just need the chance to work with him on a few events. Get my foot in the door, first.”
“I don’t get it. What are you trying to do?” Amira said, trying to imagine the world through her cousin’s eyes.
“You’ll see.”
The ringing phone from her pocket startled Amira back to reality. It was Harper. She put the call on speaker. “Hey girl!”
Hey, I’m going to miss our lunch today. Something happened and I’ve got to dig around.“I’m with-” Amira looked at Raphael who waved her off and walked away, blending into the crowd near a fountain. “Text me when you have time. Can’t wait to hear about whatever you find out.” She ended the call and caught up to her cousin.
Check in with a few of my sources. Sounds juicy so far. I’ll fill you in later. Where are you?
Raphael fidgeted in his pockets, found a coin, and tossed it into the water. “I’m not superstitious, but just in case.”
“It’s so beautiful here. Can we hang out for a while? I never get to see you much these days.
Sorry I brought up Harper.” Amira said and tucked her arm in his and nudged him to a nearby café. They took a seat at a table overlooking the lake, and ordered iced drinks and allowed the ambiance to envelop them. The air was filled with a symphony of laughter, clinking glasses and cutlery, and the hum of conversations in various dialects in joyful rhythm and cadence. The waterfowl glided across the water, their gentle movements a backdrop to the scene, eased the tension that had sparked between them. They finished their beverages and continued along the pier, the wooden planks warm and forgiving under their footsteps.
“Listen,” Raphael spoke just above a whisper. “I’ve got nothing against Harper. As a person, she’s fun and I like her a lot.” He noticed the bloom of impatience on Amira’s face. “But there’s other stuff, like her job. Digging up dirt on people and putting it out there. People hate that.”
“People don’t hate it. The Crimson Call-Out is the number one source for local news. And she’s the best in the business for what she does. They made her managing editor, you know.”
“No, I mean the people that I need to impress.” He gave her a wide-eyed stare. “She can’t go with me. It’s that simple.”
“Ah, the Boat House people.” Amira rolled her eyes. “I get it.” She took a few steps away and said, “I think one day you’ll say that I can’t go with you either.” Then turned and walked away.
“Mimi, wait.” He threw up his hands. “That’s not what I meant.”
Amira increased her stride until she could no longer hear her cousin’s voice amidst the din of shoppers lining up in front of the Coastal Couture boutique. The owner was busy trying to calm the throng of frustrated customers. She locked the door behind her and paced back and forth in front of the crowd.
“I’m sorry,” the woman shouted. “The sale has ended. We’re out of stock. Unfortunately, there’s nothing I can do about it except close temporarily until we can refresh the inventory.”
The group started hurling insults and threats at her. Their faces were red and twisted with frustration and rage.
How is that possible? You just opened the doors.Amira pressed her way to the front of the line, as one-by-one, each potential customer shoved her aside and rushed off.
You tricked us. I’m never shopping here again.
Why didn’t you have more in stock?
You knew how popular the bag is, you should have increased inventory. You’re never going to live this down! There’s no excuse for such poor planning!
“Excuse me, what happened?” Amira said, hopeful that she could still find gifts for her friends.
“I’m so sorry.” The shop owner pleaded with tears streaming down her face. “I can offer a coupon for thirty percent off your next purchase. Seriously, that’s the best that I can do under the circumstances.”
“So, the Regal Ruche bag is-”
They’re all gone. Can you believe it?
“Oh, no. Really? I’m sorry I missed the sale.”
“Yes, the demand was incredible. We sold out almost immediately. It was like a tornado hitting the place. I’ve never seen anything like it.”
“Well, it is a beautiful bag. Personally, I’d love to have one. I planned to get them for my friends.”
“I’m so-”
“I understand. No need to keep apologizing.” Amira placed her hand on the woman’s arm.
“Congratulations, by the way. It sounds like the sale was a big success.”
“Oh, it was.” The woman’s face brightened. “Now we have to clean up the aisles a bit. And restock, of course.” She patted Amira’s hand. “Thank you for understanding.”
“You’re welcome.” Amira started to walk away, then turned back. “Oh yeah, I’ll take one of those coupons, if you don’t mind.”
“Of course, follow me.” The woman unlocked the door and stepped inside.
Just as Amira started to follow, she heard Raphael calling to her. This time it sounded urgent.
She spotted him waving to her from in front of the Boat House. About a half dozen Clover City uniformed officers had arrived, and a line of police cars had blocked off the western entrance to the boardwalk. People were being redirected to the opposite sidewalk. Amira approached her cousin while staying flush against the buildings out of the way crush of crowd. She noticed the Medical Examiner’s van parked on top of a grassy knoll blocking the view of the parking lot.
“Somebody’s dead.” Raphael said and shielded her from the view of law enforcement and media forming across the street.
“Wait, what?” She tried to move around him to get a better look at all of the action. “I don’t believe you. This is probably just a training event. They do that sometimes, you know.”
Raphael gave her the same stern look from when they were kids and he would babysit for her parents. “I want you to go home now. Stay there until I get the details.”
“Oh, this must be what Harper was talking about.” Amira pulled out her phone and checked the Crimson Call-Out website. “Nothing posted yet. Are you sure that’s what happened? I’m going to call her back.”
“Go home, Mimi. With all the teams they’ve got involved here, it’s gotta be something big going on. This isn’t the time to run around stirring up trouble with that friend of yours.”
“Oh, well, my friend is a professional journo-”
“Yeah, so you said. Do what I tell you, okay? I need you to be safe and far away from here until we know what’s happening.”
“Alright, alright. I’m leaving but I can’t go home just yet. I’ve got to meet Darius and Miss Claire. They’re coming back from the STEM Young Scholars camp today. The bus is arriving soon, and everyone is getting dropped off on campus. I can’t wait to see them.”
“Him.” Raphael gave her a side-eye.
“Sure, him and all the students.”
“But mostly, him.” He teased.
“Shut up.” She blushed and tried not to appear excited. “Harper will fill me in on whatever is going on here. Since you’re sticking around, try to find a nice birthday gift for her. Won’t you?
“Amira.” He gave her a dirty look.
“It’s the least you can do. I won’t tell her it’s from you.”
“Yeah, okay. Get going before you miss the bus and your boyfriend.”
“Why do I love you?” She laughed and headed down the boardwalk toward the eastern nature trail and noticed that every shop had closed for the day, coaxing customers to the exits and onto the boardwalk. Patrons gave short quick glances over their shoulders as they shoved and hurried away from the line of private security staff blocking the entrance to the Boat House restaurant.
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Memberships/Affiliations: Mystery Writers of America (MWA), Sisters in Crime (SinC), Great Lakes Fiction Writers (GLFW), Crime Writers of Color (CWoC), Gamma Xi Phi (GXP)
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