A Murder Most Foul: The Life of a Hitman

CHAPTER 9. THEN: DEATH OF A MAIDEN

Chapter 9: Death of a Maiden
In this gripping chapter, we delve into one of Notch’s most memorable and challenging missions. Tasked with eliminating Lan Bich Hong, the mistress of a high-ranking US General, Notch faces a formidable opponent. Lan Bich Hong, a Viet Cong spy, proves to be both beautiful and deadly. Notch's meticulous planning and execution are put to the test as he navigates the complexities of the mission. The tension builds as Notch confronts the reality of taking a life, especially that of a woman who is both an enemy and a captivating presence. This chapter is a testament to Notch's skills and the psychological and physical toll of his profession.

CHAPTER 8. THEN-GOOD MORNING VIETNAM

Chapter 8: Then- Good Morning Vietnam
In this chapter, Notch arrives in Vietnam on February 25, 1967, and is greeted by Sarge at Tan Son Nhut Airbase. They head to the Continental Palace Hotel in District One, where Notch is reunited with his brothers. The chapter vividly describes his initial experiences in Vietnam, including the bustling streets of Saigon and the luxurious quarters at the hotel. Notch quickly adapts to the new environment, enjoying the perks of unlimited booze and female companionship, but soon realizes the seriousness of their mission. The chapter explores his role in conducting specified operations against specific targets, highlighting the complexities and dangers of their work. Notch’s skills and training are put to the test as he navigates the challenges of espionage and sabotage during the Vietnam War. This chapter provides a detailed look into Notch’s life in Vietnam, emphasizing the camaraderie among the team and the psychological toll of their profession.

CHAPTER 7. NOW: THURSDAY, THE FOURTH CASING AND MAKING THE SCENE

Chapter 7: Now: Thursday the Fourth-Casing and Making the Scene
In this chapter, the Notch meticulously prepares for the upcoming mission. He meets with Major, who provides a dark burgundy overcoat to ensure Notch is recognizable. Notch is shown the layout of the building, including the entrance, the patsy's position, and the target's approach. Notch’s strategic mind is highlighted as he questions the logistics and ensures everything is in place for a smooth execution. The tension builds as Notch navigates the complexities of the mission, emphasizing the importance of precision and planning. This chapter is a masterclass in the art of assassination, showcasing the Notch’s expertise and the constant danger he faces.
 

CHAPTER 6. THEN- MANIFEST DESTINY

Chapter 6: Manifest Destiny
In this chapter, we follow Notch as a 15-year-old murderer on the run, navigating the harsh realities of survival. After committing his first murder to protect his foster sister Gabriella, Notch is filled with paranoia and guilt, leading him to constantly move around. His journey takes him south, where he hopes to find work on fishing boats in the Gulf. The chapter vividly describes his travels along Highway 271, the eerie presence of crows, and his encounters with various people along the way. Notch's path is marked by a series of odd jobs, from working on a shrimper in Louisiana to picking peaches in Arizona. Each experience shapes his understanding of the world and his place in it. The chapter also introduces a significant figure in the Notch’s life, a military man known as Sarge, who becomes a father figure and mentor. Their meeting on Christmas Day 1965 marks a turning point, as Sarge invites Notch to join his family for dinner, setting the stage for his future involvement in military and covert operations. This chapter explores themes of survival, identity, and the search for belonging, highlighting Notch''s resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.

CHAPTER 5. NOW-WEDNESDAY, THE FOURTH- EVENING AT 6:00

Chapter 5: NOW-WEDNESDAY, THE FOURTH- EVENING AT 6:00
In this suspenseful chapter, Notch prepares for a crucial meeting with Mr. Major, a key figure in the upcoming mission. Notch is due to case the location early in the morning the following day, but Mr. Major unexpectedly arrives at his apartment. The tension builds as Mr. Major reveals the details of the mission, including the weapon choice and the involvement of a patsy. Notch’s internal conflict is evident as they grapple with the complexities and risks of the mission. The chapter explores themes of trust, control, and the psychological toll of being a hitman. Notch’s meticulous planning and strategic thinking are put to the test as he navigates the uncertainties of the mission. This chapter sets the stage for Notch's next steps, highlighting the high stakes and the constant danger he faces.

CHAPTER 4 THEN-QUIVERING: A LIFE

Chapter 4: Quivering: A Life
In this poignant chapter, Notch reflects on their tumultuous childhood and the events that shaped his life. Born in Wiebling, Oklahoma, and abandoned at Calder Orphanage, the protagonist, originally named William Wiebling, navigates a harsh upbringing filled with foster homes and orphanages. The chapter delves into Notch’s struggles with anger, violence, and survival, highlighting the lessons learned about trust and the harsh realities of life. Notch’s relationship with Gabriella, a fellow foster child, becomes a central theme, exploring their bond and the challenges they face together. The chapter also touches on the abuse and exploitation they endure at the hands of their foster parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fredrick Krauss. Notch’s protective instincts towards Gabriella culminate in a violent confrontation with Mr. Krauss, leading to a pivotal moment that changes his life forever. This chapter is a raw and emotional exploration of the Notch’s formative years, setting the stage for his journey into adulthood and the complexities of his profession.

CHAPTER 3 NOW-MONDAY, THE FIRST: JUMPING THE BROOME

Chapter 3: Jumping the Broome
In this suspenseful chapter, the Notch meticulously prepares for a high-stakes meeting with a potential client. Notch, ever cautious and experienced, senses something off about the generous advance payment and the urgency of the job. The meeting is set at a two-story building on Broome Street, and Notch takes every precaution, including scouting the location a day in advance. The chapter delves into Notch's strategic mind, highlighting the importance of patience and thorough planning in their line of work. As the Notch waits on the rooftop of a nearby building, the tension builds, emphasizing the life-or-death stakes of their profession. This chapter is a masterclass in suspense and the art of the hitman, showcasing the protagonist's expertise and the constant danger they face.

CHAPTER 2 NOW- SUNDAY, THE THIRTIETH: HELLO, IT’S ME

Chapter 2: Hello, It's Me
In this intriguing chapter, we are introduced to the Notch's alias, Jack A. Hertzen, and his complex relationship with his "Secretary," Sec. The Notch, a seasoned hitman, navigates the intricacies of his profession with the help of Sec, his “secretary” who has been his best friend for nearly seven years. The chapter delves into the Notch’s meticulous planning and communication methods, highlighting the coded language and secretive meetings that define their partnership. As the Notch prepares for a new contract, we get a glimpse into his personal life and the challenges he faces in maintaining his anonymity. The chapter explores themes of loyalty, trust, and the psychological toll of living a double life. This chapter sets the stage for the protagonist's next mission, revealing the complexities of his profession and the relationships that sustain him.

CHAPTER 1 NOW: TUESDAY, THE SECOND- THE CONTRACT

In this riveting opening chapter, we are introduced to the protagonist, a seasoned hitman known as Notch. The story begins with a chilling encounter between Notch and a cold-hearted woman who hires him to kill her husband. Despite the lucrative offer of $4 million, Notch is initially hesitant due to the high risk involved. However, the promise of a life free from his violent past and the chance to reunite with Gabriella, the  woman he loves, ultimately convinces him to accept the job. The chapter delves into the complexities of Notch's profession, his meticulous planning, and the moral ambiguities he faces. The tension builds as Notch contemplates the consequences of his actions and the possibility of redemption. This chapter sets the stage for a thrilling and morally complex journey, exploring themes of loyalty, deception, and the psychological toll of being a hitman.

Preview-A Murder Most Foul: The Life of a Hitman

Author Richard Marcs introduces the literary experiment that is A Murder Most Foul: The Life of a Hitman.