Shadowy Tales

"Shadowy Tales" is a heart pounding thriller that emphasizes the danger of cultural division and social intolerance through a truly compelling mystery. This is the story of a protestant minister, Frances Anna Keeton, newly appointed by her bishop to a church in the conservative south. Arriving from a liberal environment in California, she faces immense turmoil. Frances realized she was entering into a difficult situation. But she never would imagine the danger, harm, and secrets that lie ahead.

A new casino is being considered on land currently owned by members of the local Choctaw tribe who are active members of Fran's church. The clout behind this proposal is exerting pressure on Fran to support the local gaming establishment rather than actively oppose it.

Fran is terrorized repeatedly, but she doesn't know if it's because she is a woman pastor or if it is to intimidate her into supporting the new casino. When Kevin, her organist and friend, is kidnaped, a search begins. A carved arrowhead is left at her door for no apparent reason. A phone message instructs Fran to present the arrowhead as a signal that she is ready to submit herself as ransom for Kevin or forfeit Kevin's life. Telling no one, she hunts for an unidentified person who would know the sinister meaning of the arrowhead.

Lucy Jones lives on the side of Kilauea Volcano in Hawaii. When she is not writing at her computer or working with her orchids, she strolls the warm sandy beaches of her volcanic island and basks in tropical breezes. She has worked for many years with women and men in parish ministry and counseling for personal growth. Her background in psychology, ordained ministry, and community college teaching provides her with experiences and insights into small town prejudices to be shared through stories.