The Christmas Eve Murders: Debbie, the Waitress

In The Christmas Eve Murders, the first book of New York's Finest Collection, Debbie is a waitress at the popular Orchard Diner in Stone Ridge, offering the best pear pie in the county. She serves (excuse the pun) as an important source of information in Detective Ryan’s investigation. Although she seems a little nervous to talk to the police, she proves herself to be a grounded observer and invaluable font of local knowledge.

Working in the bustling Stone Ridge diner, Debbie acts as the "eyes and ears" of the community, witnessing the comings and goings of the patrons throughout the day. Her character provides Detective Ryan and Cadet Vincenti with more than just coffee; she provides the latest local gossip and sharp observations that the police might otherwise miss. Very few other individuals in the village have the opportunity and ability to encounter so many people with such practised ease.

Debbie also acts as an anchor to the human element of the investigations. In a story underpinned by a series of murders and a race against time, she emanates a sense of normalcy and warmth. Her interactions with Ryan showcase the detective's sensitive side. Ryan is only too aware that in order to get answers, he will need to tread carefully, and treat the locals with respect. Hard-line interrogation tactics will not work in such a tranquil community, such as Stone Ridge.

While waiting tables in the Orchard Diner on Christmas Eve, Debbie finds herself caught up in a high-stakes NYPD murder investigation. Although she is reluctant to get involved in the matter, she may have seen more than she knows, and Detective Ryan is determined to extract any leads that she may have for them . . .