Bookshops & Bonedust (Legends & Lattes, #0)

by Travis Baldree

Because right things happen at the wrong time.

She flipped to the first page. The chapter was titled “IN WHICH I DISMEMBER A MAN.” Viv thought of Fern’s knowing gaze and huffed a laugh.

“You’re just trying to make it to the other end, and while you’re in it, there’s nothing to either side. Only the way forward. You know, the tunnel. Maybe when you find a way out, you can look around, but until then …”

“Oh my, yes.” His hollow voice took on a wistful tone as he tied off another bow. “Many wonders. Perfect beauties. Great seas set aflame by sunsets. Endless underground lakes in soundless caverns. The winter light on mountain snow that has never thawed.”

“You do something for years and years, and the only reason you continue is because once you stop, you won’t really have anything.”

“Every book is a little mirror, and sometimes you look into it and see someone else looking back.”

“Never trust a writer who doesn’t have too many books to read. Or a reader, for that matter,”

“Because I’m headed down the hill, and you’re headed up it. I’m just glad we chanced to meet on the way.”

And as Tandri laughed, waiting for the full story, Viv was grateful for all the wrong times that had led to this right one.