Living, Loving, Laughing, and Occasional Murder

Ordinary People. Extraordinary Circumstances.

Twelve compelling stories from author David P. Warren take readers deep into the lives of everyday people caught in moments of intense crisis, quiet heartbreak, and sudden revelation. With suspense, emotion, and unexpected insight, each story explores the fragile threads that connect us—and what happens when they begin to fray.

From a witness on the run in Exit Strategy to the grief-stricken couple in Connecting the Dots, and from the emotional weight of Wait for Me to the humorous and heartfelt reflections in An Introspective Look at Life on this Planet, these stories span mystery, romance, justice, and hope. Whether you're drawn to psychological nuance, emotional redemption, or a twist of fate, this collection offers a sharp, sensitive, and often surprising look at human nature under pressure.

Discover the full range of David P. Warren’s storytelling voice in this unforgettable collection.

Available now in print, eBook, and audiobook at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Audible.

Excerpt from the book

Terry makes his last call of the day before heading home.

“Lester and Phillips, may I help you?”

“Mark Desmond, please.”

“May I say who’s calling?”

“Terry Scanlon.”

“What’s it regarding?”

“I’m calling regarding the Martin v. Pacific Diamond Case.”

“One moment.”

There is a prolonged period of nothingness. I am about to conclude that the assistant hung up on me when I hear, “Terry, what’s new?”

“I told you I’d get back to you to relay our settlement demand.”

“Right. I’ll brace myself.”

“Let me know when you’re ready.”

“Okay, now.”

“Great. Two hundred seventy-five thousand.”

“I’ll pass it on to the client, but I can’t recommend it. I think you’re overvaluing the case.”

“Of course you do. It’s your job to say things like that. I understand. I don’t think that any defense attorney can avoid saying things like that, regardless of what the demand is.”

“You are a little jaded, you know?”

“Right. It takes about an hour and a half in this business to get a little jaded. I’m light years beyond that. You are too. Yours just takes the form of denial.”

He laughs. “Okay, maybe I’ve heard too many of your plaintiff’s lawyers inflating case values for too long.”

“That’s a jaded view, right there. Your perception is that the values are inflated, but that’s because your defense lawyer training is all about denying liability, damages, and reality.”

“Enough already. It’s getting deep in here.”

“Well, while you’re shoveling, chat with your client about the offer. Maybe they’ll have an interest in resolving the case. Alternatively, they can pay you now and my client later. I’m okay either way.”

He laughs. “Okay, I’ll let them know and get back to you. Take it easy.”

“You, too.”

Terry hangs up and grabs my coat. He can get home by 7:30 and have a little dinner with Amelia. He can even see the kids before they go to bed.

He starts the journey home feeling good. His phone rings and he checks the caller i.d. readout. When he sees that it’s Amelia, he picks up immediately. “Hi Sweetheart.”

“Hi Babe. Are you on your way home?”

“I am. About fifteen minutes out.”

“I know you’ve probably had a long day, but I wondered if you could do me a favor on the way home.”

“Well, let’s see. Oh yeah, it says right here. Anything and everything you need.”

“Wow. Is that written on a cocktail napkin or something?”

“Nope. It’s written right here on my heart.”

“Wow. Extra romantic brownie points for you. To be cashed in anytime the kids are asleep, if you get my drift.”

“I do. And I really like that drift. But until then, what can I do for you?”

“Make a quick stop at the Barton’s place and pick up some documents that Tammy wants me to review for her.”

“Sure, no problem. See you in a little while. Love you.”