In Fatal Whispers, book 2 in the Megan Scott/Michael Elliott Mystery series, my sleuths investigate three unexplained deaths in Portland, Maine, including that of a millionaire’s beautiful young wife. With George Gray’s approval, they dig deeper into the late Tiffany Gray’s life but discover little background about the former beauty queen who had married a man twice her age.
As Megan and Michael search for the truth, people close to Tiffany share their experiences—good and bad. But contradictory statements from witnesses thwart their attempts to understand the woman who had mysteriously collapsed in the kitchen of her sprawling mansion.
In the vein of a modern-day Downton Abbey, certain characters in the Grays’ elite circle don’t hesitate to reveal their dislike of Tiffany, while others choose to mislead instead. Here are their testimonies:
From an employee at Bianca’s Gardens, a flower shop that Tiffany Gray had frequented: “The whole town knows what a tramp she was, hitting on anything that wore pants, including their live-in personal trainer.”
Megan makes this observation as she waits to interview George Gray in his spacious living room: “Framed pictures crammed the wall... Chronological glimpses into George’s life included photos of him as a child through to his university graduation...and later, with George and Tiffany. Of notable exclusion were photos of Tiffany with George’s parents. Had they chosen not to be photographed with her, or had someone deliberately removed the photos?”
“Tiffany came into my life like a breath of fresh air,” George Gray said later. “She was a beautiful, kindhearted person.”
Testimony from Josephine, George’s mother: “Tiffany wasn’t what one would call cultured... She didn’t fit into our practice of marrying into a proper family, if you know what I mean.”
Testimony from Stanley, George’s father, as he spoke to Josephine: “You know very well what that poor girl was up against. She didn’t have a chance in hell with you and your circle of chatty... We have to give the girl some credit, Josie... Raising funds for charities...building a new wing for the hospital...”
From Tyler, George’s personal live-in trainer: “Take my word for it. It was a marriage of convenience... She was his trophy wife.”
A statement from Mrs. Nolan, George’s live-in cook, when asked if Tiffany Gray might have had an extramarital affair: “I can’t imagine what would possess her to seek out other men when she was married to such a fine gentleman like Mr. Gray. She was mad about him, she was.”
Lori, the young live-in maid at the Gray residence, shared her feelings about Tiffany: “She was like an older sister to me. She’d often knock at my door at night...bring me leftover sandwiches or cupcakes from her fancy lunches with the rich women she invited here. We’d watch TV or chat for a bit... She cried a lot during our last visits.”
A private comment from one of the well-heeled women at a committee meeting held at the exclusive Birchwood Club: “A lot of good George’s money did her. She croaked before she could spend it.”
Yes, Tiffany Gray had her quota of friends and foes. The mystery behind her sudden death represented a clear challenge for Megan and Michael. That is, until they uncovered stunning evidence that shook the investigation to its core.
If you haven’t yet read Fatal Whispers, visit the Books page on my website to find out where you can get your copy.
5-star review of Fatal Whispers from Readers’ Favorite:
“The author strings readers along with clever clues, mild humour, and a cast of thought-provoking characters. She introduces two very likeable crime solvers who are as interesting as the mystery itself.”