Murder of the Hula Dancers Read online

  MURDER OF THE HULA DANCERS

  A Leila Kahana Mystery

  By R. Barri Flowers

  MURDER OF THE HULA DANCERS: A Leila Kahana Mystery is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, business establishments, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

  MURDER OF THE HULA DANCERS

  A Leila Kahana Mystery

  Copyright 2016 by R. Barri Flowers

  All rights reserved.

  Cover Image Copyright Alan Poulson Photography, 2016

  Used under license from Shutterstock.com

  Aloha to the many fans of my popular Hawaii mystery, thriller, suspense, romance, and young adult fiction as well as new readers who love the Hawaiian Islands and enjoy a great read. Mahalo!

  * * *

  CRIME AND THRILLER NOVELS BY R. BARRI FLOWERS

  Dark Streets of Whitechapel

  Dead in Kihei

  Dead in Pukalani

  Dead in the Rose City

  Fractured Trust

  Justice Served

  Killer Connection

  Killer Evidence Legal Thriller 4-Book Bundle

  Killer in The Woods

  Murder in Honolulu

  Murder in Hawaii Mysteries

  Murder in Maui

  Murdered in the Man Cave

  Murder on Kaanapali Beach

  Persuasive Evidence

  Private Eye Bestselling Mysteries 2-Book Bundle

  Seduced To Kill in Kauai

  Serial Killer Thrillers 5-Book Bundle

  State's Evidence

  * * *

  PRAISE FOR R. BARRI FLOWERS

  "Murder on Kaanapali Beach is among the best of his tales. This one deserves to be at the top of your must read list." — John Lutz, Edgar winning, bestselling mystery author

  "A fine procedural along with appealing characters and great local color." — Bill Crider, Edgar winner and crime writer on Murder on Kaanapali Beach

  "A police procedural with a complex plot, told from multiple viewpoints. The reader gets the added benefit of a virtual vacation on Maui." — Laurie Hanan, Hawaii mystery author on Murder on Kaanapali Beach

  "A top flight police procedural and a must read for all fans of suspense. The contrast of seamy crime to the beautiful paradise setting adds to the gripping tension." — Joe Moore, bestselling author on Murder on Kaanapali Beach

  "A masterful thriller set in the dark underbelly of Maui, with lots of fine action, down and dirty characters, and the vivid details of police procedure. A terrific read!" — Douglas Preston, bestselling author on Murder in Maui

  "Gripping writing, wonderfully rounded characters you really care about, and vivid locations." — Peter James, bestselling mystery author on Murder in Maui

  "A gripping and tightly woven tale you won't want to put down. Author Flowers neatly contrasts the natural beauty of a tropical paradise with the ugliness of murder and its aftermath." — John Lutz, Edgar winner and bestselling author on Murder in Maui

  "R. Barri Flowers writes with the passion and knowledge of someone who truly knows his craft. A steamy, non-stop thrill-ride through the seamy underbelly of Hawaii." — Allison Leotta, former federal prosecutor and author on Murder in Maui

  "An exquisitely rich and masterfully constructed mystery... A savvy, smooth, and sumptuous read that's as hot as Waikiki beach sand." — Jon Land, bestselling author on Murder in Honolulu

  "Infidelity and murder in paradise lead to a one of a kind case for PI Skye McKenzie Delaney, and an enjoyable ride for the reader. Definitely put this one on your list." — John Lutz, Edgar winner and bestselling author on Murder in Honolulu

  "Murder in Honolulu, is a gripping tale of crime and investigation, set in a vivid, gritty island underworld. It is filled with excitement, a sense of place, and memorable characters. Highly recommended!" — Douglas Preston, New York Times bestselling author

  "Go ahead. Take a trip to Hawaii. Murder in Honolulu is your ticket. As long you don't mind a surprise around every corner, Skye Delaney will be your streetwise guide." — Camille Kimball, true crime author

  * * *

  TABLE OF CONTENTS

  Prologue

  Chapter 1

  Chapter 2

  Chapter 3

  Chapter 4

  Chapter 5

  Chapter 6

  Chapter 7

  Chapter 8

  Chapter 9

  Chapter 10

  Chapter 11

  Chapter 12

  Chapter 13

  Chapter 14

  Chapter 15

  Chapter 16

  Chapter 17

  Chapter 18

  Chapter 19

  Chapter 20

  Chapter 21

  Chapter 22

  Chapter 23

  Chapter 24

  Chapter 25

  Chapter 26

  Chapter 27

  Chapter 28

  Chapter 29

  Chapter 30

  Chapter 31

  Chapter 32

  Chapter 33

  Chapter 34

  Chapter 35

  Chapter 36

  Murder in Upcountry - bonus excerpt

  Dead in Kihei - bonus Maui novelette

  Murder on the Big Island - bonus excerpt

  Kaanapali Beach Paradise, Part 2 - bonus novelette

  Kill and Say Goodbye - bonus short story

  About the Author

  * * *

  PROLOGUE

  Hula is a form of visual dancing created by Polynesian settlers on the Hawaiian Islands, typically performed with mele or oli, meaning song or chant. Ancient hula, known as kahiko, such as 'āla'apapa and 'olapa, was often performed to honor or entertain chiefs. Hula began to evolve during and beyond the 19th century through influences of the West, known as 'auana, meaning to "drift" or "wander," and included performances for religious purposes, such as worshipping a Hawaiian goddess; as well as historical journeys, and pure entertainment and fun for those in attendance.

  Hula dancing done while standing is called luna dance, and in a sitting position it is referred to as noho dance. Hula is normally taught by a kumu hula—a teacher knowledgeable in the dance form—in schools known as hālau. Students of hula, called haumana, include alaka'i or leaders, kokua or helpers, and dancers or 'olapa.

  As an engaging art form, hula often uses various hand, hip, and foot movements, such as the kaholo, kawelu, and 'uwehe; while representing words or nature in chant or songs, like palm trees swaying or ocean waves. Hula 'auana or modern hula is sometimes complemented with fire knife dancing performers and often includes popular music performed by musicians, including a lead vocalist, using acoustic stringed instruments.

  Hawaiian hula dancers are mostly women who dress in colorful costumes that reflect the mele or oli, beauty of the islands, and the spirit of aloha. When hula in paradise is threatened, misfortune can follow...

  * * *

  Yoshie Akiyama had been a professional hula dancer on Maui for two years, performing at many different occasions, including anniversaries, award presentations, birthdays, celebrations, events, graduations, luaus, weddings, and more. She loved what she did and knew she did it well. It brought in enough money for her to own her own home and stash away a bit for a rainy day, even if those seemed to be few and far between on the Hawaiian Islands.

  Employed by the Aloha Hula Dance Company, Yoshie also performed at private clubs, homes, and for individuals who wished to watch a sexy dancer gyrate and shake her hips and ass for their pleasure. Though some other hula dancers she knew took it a step further—actually a
few steps—selling their bodies for extra pay or to get drugs, Yoshie stayed away from that. Yes, she'd had a drug problem once, but she was clean today and just wanted to do whatever she needed to have a bright future.

  Tonight she would be doing her thing at a bachelor party. It was being held in a private room at a posh restaurant in Wailea, one of the more affluent parts of Maui on its south shore. The lavish resort community catered to the well-to-do with its sandy white beaches and world-class golf courses and spas.

  Wary of horny men who expected more than she was willing to give, as always, Yoshie had made it clear in advance that there would be no hanky panky or extras thrown into the mix. She was strictly professional and wanted that to be respected in the spirit of aloha and her Hawaiian ancestry.

  After parking her car in the parking lot, Yoshie checked the mirror to make sure her long raven hair and makeup were just right. She wore a plumeria lei headband and orchid lei over her traditional costume that consisted of a pa'u, or wrapped skirt, along with a matching bikini top. The high heels she wore were her own choice. After applying more lip gloss, she stepped out of the car, bringing with her an iPod loaded with a blend of Hawaiian, Samoan, and Tahitian songs.

  Once inside, the attractive host said sweetly, "Aloha. Let me show you to the bachelor party."

  "Mahalo," Yoshie said. She followed him while trying to suppress the butterflies in her stomach for yet another performance in which she must win over her audience, especially the man of the hour before he made his way into matrimony—something she hoped would come her way one day.

  Once inside the room, Yoshie calmed down as she was greeted warmly by those gathered. She fully expected it to be a night to remember for the bachelor, his friends, and her.

  * * *

  He used a cloth to wipe the bright red blood from his long blade. It would dry completely soon enough and be ready to use again whenever it suited his fancy. Putting the knife back in his duffel bag, he dragged the naked, bloody corpse to his car, tossing it onto the tarpaulin on the back seat. He then climbed in the front, started the engine, and began to drive.

  Turning on some music—"Ke Kali Nei Au"—the Hawaiian wedding song, he sang along, enjoying the adrenalin rush from the fresh kill. He replayed in his mind how he had caught her off guard, then wasted little time going to work on her as he plunged the knife deep within her soft flesh time and time again, until he finished her off by slitting her throat.

  She had to die. Just as they all did. It was the only way to punish them properly for stepping over the line. Dancing for an unworthy audience could not be tolerated. He would see to it that they paid the ultimate price for their sins and the sins of those they corrupted.

  He sang more of the song and then played it again, which brought great joy to him.

  Once he reached the desired destination, he stopped the car and got out. Under the cover of darkness, he pulled the dead hula dancer out and dumped her in the field. He doubted she would rest in peace, but that wasn't his problem. Not any longer.

  Getting back in the car, he drove off, already turning his thoughts toward the next one who needed to feel the sting of his blade.

  * * *

  Lloyd Shaughnessy and his wife, Adrianna, had retired to Maui three years ago. After visiting the island many times, they decided to take the plunge and make it their home. And not a day had gone by that they regretted leaving Portland, Oregon behind. After all, their children were adults now and spread out across the mainland. Now they and the grandkids had a place to come and visit whenever they wanted.

  In between, Lloyd enjoyed the tranquility of a hau'oli lā ho'omaha loa or happy retirement in paradise with its palm trees, gentle ocean breezes, and friendly people. It gave him even greater pleasure to spend time outdoors with his two-year-old Belgian Malinois, named Kolohe, which was Hawaiian for rascal.

  Today they were taking their usual morning walk and breathing in the fresh air and scent of fragrant plants from nearby gardens. When Kolohe suddenly tried to break free from his leash, Lloyd wondered what had attracted his attention.

  "What is it, boy?"

  The dog began to bark and continued to be restless. Seeing nothing but the dry field of tall grass ahead, Lloyd figured it was nothing more than a gecko lizard. They were common there and Kolohe loved to chase them, but never seemed to catch one.

  "All right," Lloyd gave in, "go for it. Just don't go too far."

  He released the dog and it quickly made a beeline for a clump of dead grass, where it stopped on a dime and barked repeatedly. It was clear to Lloyd that something other than a gecko had captured his attention.

  "What did you find?" he called out.

  Lloyd followed him into the field and stopped abruptly when he spotted a human leg. Taking a step closer, he saw the nude body of a young woman lying face up. Her eyes were open but lifeless. Her throat had been cut and, from the looks of the bloody remains, her killer had done plenty of damage elsewhere too.

  CHAPTER ONE

  Officer Natalie Yuen and her partner, Officer Conrad Spinelli, responded to the call that a deceased female had been discovered by a man walking his dog on East Liloa Drive in Kihei. It was located on Maui, Hawaii's southwest shore, the driest and sunniest side of the island. The area comprised District VI of the Maui Police Department patrol districts, to which the officers were assigned.

  Natalie, who was just a year removed from turning thirty, was used to the daily routine. She had been a patrol officer with the Maui PD for six years. Like some others at her level, she longed to move up in the ranks. As an Asian American, she was proud to be in law enforcement and did her part to keep the peace on Maui, as well as protect the locals and tourists whenever the situation called for it.

  Obviously, in the present situation, there was no saving someone who was already dead. She wondered if it was suicide, an accident, or foul play. None of these did much to promote the message of Maui, and the Hawaiian Islands in general, of being the ultimate paradise for life, living, pleasure, fitness, and entertainment.

  Maybe people need to get real and understand that there's no such thing as utopia, even in Hawaii, Natalie mused from the passenger seat.

  "You might as well be the first one I share this with, Nat," Spinelli said from behind the wheel, using his nickname for her.

  "Please don't tell me you've fallen head over heels in love with me," she joked, knowing he was married to a lovely woman from New Zealand. Aside from that, Natalie didn't exactly consider the forty-two-year-old, medium-built officer with thinning gray hair her type. Besides, she already had a boyfriend—a musician named Jotoku—and things were going well at the moment.

  Spinelli chuckled and glanced at her. "'Fraid not."

  "My loss," she said, pretending to be hurt. "So what's the big news?"

  He paused as they approached their destination. "Helene and I are getting a divorce."

  Natalie's small brown eyes grew wide with shock. "What—? Why?"

  He shrugged. "Why does anyone get a divorce? We've drifted apart."

  "Come on, Spinelli. You've gotta do better than that," she scolded him. "What's the real story?" She felt comfortable enough with him to pry into his business, even though she preferred to keep the details of her intimate life private.

  "She says she's bored, homesick, and..." He paused before continuing. "Well, if you must know, I don't think I do it for her anymore..."

  Natalie eyed his profile and asked boldly: "You mean in the bedroom?"

  "Yeah," he said, coloring with embarrassment. "I guess I have become too boring, predictable, tired...you name it."

  "Then maybe you should do something about it, rather than watch your marriage go down the drain."

  "Like what?"

  Natalie hesitated, but realized she might as well say it. "Man up and do whatever you need to do to regain your mojo—and hers. I'll leave it to you to figure out the rest."

  Spinelli nodded. "It's worth a try."

  "Good luc
k!" She couldn't help but wonder if Helene was seeing someone else. If so, was there anything Spinelli could really do to turn back the hands of time on their romance?

  Natalie was happy there were no such problems for her in the bedroom. Jotoku knew exactly what it took to please a woman. And she, in turn, knew just what he liked after enough practice. Still, she realized it took more than great sex to make a relationship work. So far, she had succeeded in tapping into these things with her current lover, knock on wood. Wherever they were headed, she was happy to go along for the ride.

  They were the first responders to arrive at the scene. Natalie gazed in horror at the dead woman lying atop the yellowish-brown grass. She appeared to be Hawaiian and in her mid-twenties. Any idea of suicide or an accident was quickly erased. She was naked and there was clear evidence of trauma to her neck and body in what appeared to be numerous stab wounds. Someone had definitely gone to town on the victim in what Natalie could only conclude was a rage killing.

  She and Spinelli moved quickly to preserve the crime scene.

  * * *

  Detective Sergeant Leila Kahana had just spent the night with her handsome boyfriend, restaurateur Maxwell Kishimoto, at his sprawling ranch in the West Maui Mountains. Lately, she had been staying over more and more, both for the comfort of his warm embrace and the opportunity to step away from her own inherited small cottage. She also felt free to be herself when she was around him instead of a member of the Maui Police Department's Homicide Unit and a composite sketch artist.

  At thirty-three and a half, she had been on the force going on nine years now. In the process, she had followed in the footsteps of her Native Hawaiian grandfather, Ekewaka Kahana, the onetime police chief of Maui County, and her father, Katsumi Kahana, who worked for Internal Affairs. She hadn't exactly been pressured to join the Maui PD by her family, as police work was considered more male oriented. Her mother, still old fashioned in many ways where it concerned the woman's role in society, was especially put off by her decision to join the force.