The Elusive Peacock

De: Susan Platt

Narrado por: Joyce McGuirk

Kathryn moved to a charming, country setting in rural Virginia to heal after the untimely death of her husband. Their life amid the demands of past careers in Washington, DC, took its toll, and now all she wants is to enjoy peace and solitude.

From the start, she takes delight in trying to locate an elusive peacock, said to roam the meandering dirt roads of her little crossroads village. That, and neighborly invites for dinner.

But peace and a simple pastime is not all that she finds.

First come the warnings. Then the bizarre objects left in her driveway and on her porch—like bullets and dead birds. Then the threats start. But why?

Career-wise, Kathryn was a political campaign consultant for progressive candidates. She also championed progressive causes. A past that has marked her in the eyes of secret forces that are slowly taking over her town.

These forces are pressuring to have the local police fired and replaced by a private militia—a secretive group associated with a national movement that promotes male dominance, exclusive causes, and is pressing for an ultra-conservative—and violent—takeover of America.

By voicing her opinion at a town hall meeting, Kathryn triggers a campaign of threats and violence against her personally, labelled as “that outspoken, mouthy woman”. Attempts to terrorize her escalate when she begins to organize local women to stand up to the pressures of the clandestine group that operates under cover of darkness.

Soon, the question arises: Which of these nice-seeming, country neighbors has been keeping her close to carefully watch her? Which are for her, and which are against her?

Just when she thinks the group she is organizing is gaining momentum, terror is violently unleashed against her in the dead of night.

How will Kathryn survive the force coming against her? Or is her own peace and safety as out of reach as the village’s elusive peacock?

©2025 Susan S Platt (P)2025 Susan S Platt

Delightful mystery

It was an easy, corky and intriguing story. Cool to hear about the VA area and her relatability in starting a new way of life. It’s a treat to read!