Welcome to Hurricane Bay, Florida, where the act of arson isn’t uncommon. When a popular gay bar, the Flaming Flamingo, burns to the ground with bartender Rudy inside, fear rocks the Gulf-side community. Bar owner Peter Rotunda wants to learn who destroyed his business and committed murder. Soon after the incident, Rotunda hires adorable and sexy private investigator Axle Dupree to take the case.<br><br>Axle is a fresh private eye with exemplary charm. Not only can he woo the pants off his boyfriend Casey, but also just about every other guy in town. Soon a list of alleged suspects builds: wealthy Laura Monigal, who has a history of arson; mysterious faux-cowboy Clifton Monigal; a Daisy Dukes-wearing circus performer; and a “fluff” romance writer.<br><br>As June unfolds, conversations are sharp, road trips into the Everglades become overwhelming, and spying is necessary. But after applying heat to the suspects, Axle learns who the murderer is ... and so much more about his community.

Heat

I made a mental note to have a brief but informative chat with the clay artist and learn how and why he was associated with Rudy Shower. Plus, I wanted to see his new clay pieces, since I thought his work appealing. 8: Night Walk


Hurricane Road ran north to south next to the Gulf. The bungalows along the sandy beach were sized differently, and most of their inhabitants were in bed. I slipped into a pair of sandals and walked outside, needing some fresh air. Perhaps a little exercise would help me sleep. I made a left on Hurricane Road and started to head south. The wind felt light, warm, and somewhat refreshing. Cicadas were a nuisance, but I had gotten used to them years ago. The moon shined almost full, an odd-shaped pool of dark blue and white.


Chapter 7