Things Like This Don't Happen Here
A Secrets of Belladonna Estates Short Story
Rita MaxilIn Belladona Estates, the “safest neighborhood in the state,” HOA manager Kevin Whitaker’s Monday night is interrupted when a bloodied woman crashes through his door, begging him not to call the police. She insists nothing is wrong, and she doesn’t want help.
But Kevin can’t shake the feeling that something is terribly wrong.
As strange clues begin to surface, he becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth. Because no matter how many times she tells him to leave her alone, Kevin is certain she doesn’t mean it.
He’s going to save her.
Even if she doesn’t want him to.
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Teresa B.
I did not expect what happened. I can definitely say that this was great. I hope to be able to read and participate in the next book.
I could not find your book on Amazon. Once I'm able to I can host my review above in there.
Jolene C.
“Things like this don’t happen here” is exactly what makes Belladonna Estates feel so eerie. It’s the kind of place built on appearances, where everything looks perfect and everyone is always watching… even when they pretend they’re not.
Kevin fits right in. He’s observant, persistent, and maybe a little too invested in other people’s lives. So when a bloodied woman shows up at his door and insists she needs help, but then persists she doesn’t, he can’t leave it alone. He tells himself he’s doing the right thing, but the deeper he digs, the harder it is to tell where concern ends and obsession begins.
This was a quick, short story with a steady undercurrent of tension. It pulls you in with a simple premise and lets the unease build from there. I finished it wanting more from Belladonna Estates, because something tells me this neighborhood has plenty left to hide.
Jen S.
Things Like This Don't Happen Here delivers an intriguing premise that hooks you immediately. For a short story, the character development is good, though I found it hard to root for Kevin - he gave off a creepy vibe right from the start.
The highlights of the narrative are undoubtedly the sharp twist and the concluding sequence. The ending is both satisfying and a perfect setup for the next installment in the series. While a few plot points remain slightly murky, the author notes that the answers will be coming in book two.
Overall, it is an enjoyable, fast-paced read that makes you want to learn more about Belladonna Estates and its residents.