In the small Northern California town of Crescent Springs, the residents awaken one spring morning to chaos. Every vehicle in town, including the ancient VW Beetle of local private detective Butler Appleton, has its tires slashed. With summer vacations on the horizon, panic spreads as people scramble to find replacements. Butler immediately launches an investigation and heads straight to the local tire and repair shop, suspecting the owner might have seen something suspicious. However, Bob, the elderly owner who dreams of leaving town, proves to be no help. He reveals that he goes to bed at 7 p.m. and hadn't noticed any unusual activity. With this lead turning cold, Butler continues his search for answers.

I was born in England, but have lived in Southern California for many years. I m now retired and live in the Pacific NW in a little seaside city amongst the giant redwoods and wonderful harbor, almost at the Oregon border. My husband and I have one cat, called Midnight and she is featured in two of my latest Sci-Fi short stories. I love Science Fiction, animals, and trying to help others. I publish under Doreen Milstead as well as my own name. My photo was taken right before the coronation of QE II in the UK.