Murder didn't happen on Ocracoke Island. But with a gunshot wound in the center of Jake Morgan's back, Hyde County senior deputy Kate Michaels knew it had to be murder.
    She glanced at Grady Teach, self-proclaimed island historian, who had discovered the body. "What were you doing on the beach so early this morning, Grady?"
    Before he could answer, the police equipment bag she'd placed on the sand beside Jake's body exploded in a rush of air followed by the crack of a rifle. She pulled her service revolver from its holster and whirled to determine the shooter's position. The second shot kicked up sand inches from her feet.