(Ed. Note: Of all the things I love about my job, nothing surpasses the thrill of discovery. And judging from the popularity of the Free Kindle Nation Shorts program, I’m not alone. So I hope you’ll come along with Sue Grafton and me today, because we have a treat to share with you. –S.W.)

Bestselling mystery novelist Sue Grafton had to read Don Bruns’ book, like it or not.  He’d “purchased” her critique services at  a charity auction.

She liked it well enough to give him 8 harsh pages of criticism.

But his re-write of “Jamaica Blue” earned this from Grafton:  “It’s good. It’s really good.”

Today’s 5,300-word Free Kindle Nation Short kicks off Bruns’ hot suspense novel “Barbados Heat” with the brutal murder of a Congressman who was once a rock ‘n roller like the author,  “a road weary musician who made a living performing with acts like Ricky Nelson, the Platters, Ray Charles and Eric Carmen.”

Click here to enjoy the full excerpt!

Here’s the set-up:

Congressman Robert Shapply is no saint. A former music insider who fleeced his clients for millions, he now leads the crusade against offensive and violent rap lyrics. When he is attacked and murdered in front of his Adams Morgan home , the list of suspects is endless.

But the killer might be closer to home: Police arrest Shapply’s son and charge him with murder.

For music journalist Mick Sever, covering this case is personal. Mick, a former client of the congressman and best friend of the accused killer, knows the case isn’t quite as simple as it appears. He believes his friend’s claims of innocence.

From Washington, D.C. to Sarasota, Florida and Barbados, rock and roll journalist Mick Sever follows the leads, trying to prove the innocence of his former childhood friend. Threatened by unknown assailants and dangers, Mick becomes the hunted as the killer turns the tables in a stunning climax.

Click here to enjoy the full excerpt!