tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16356344799189905482024-03-05T10:52:20.268-08:00Richie's Reviews"Most people don't realize that writers are actually working when they are staring off into space." R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.comBlogger216125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-14737414663622961552023-06-02T14:41:00.003-07:002023-06-02T14:41:25.928-07:00Executive Order<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik4DhCj8SzYfqv9jw1NZcB1Sr_-q5NOQEvXGSIQs5EO1HrAK3O-jwTPQkOQ5TTXkOsyAVFgrn1f0tg0IS5riR832O1rCPRwu0FAdszH64_e564jGD2c7pUH_cIt32h7ecnxAWZ8AxiVomK45344XP7TaM2zuwodvBb3EaARRG8EvYFOf81hL6WbQTLqg/s500/255%20Ececutive%20Order.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik4DhCj8SzYfqv9jw1NZcB1Sr_-q5NOQEvXGSIQs5EO1HrAK3O-jwTPQkOQ5TTXkOsyAVFgrn1f0tg0IS5riR832O1rCPRwu0FAdszH64_e564jGD2c7pUH_cIt32h7ecnxAWZ8AxiVomK45344XP7TaM2zuwodvBb3EaARRG8EvYFOf81hL6WbQTLqg/s320/255%20Ececutive%20Order.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>Collins has a strong and crisp voice in this well-written no-nonsense story. The plot is somewhat obscure to begin with but the main characters have good depth. If you like a political thriller this one is for you. 4 Stars<br /><p><br /></p>R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-85203266844942814792023-05-28T14:31:00.001-07:002023-05-28T14:31:28.295-07:00The Inmate<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSlCfMrcoacVnOOwoxa7BipTbEqsw2cS9EjJFYnZjmayAhilyhzfiPP0Ijf55ANGKw_-UpKil0qiUkGAVQsXwOS6WvnxxyRmEDXTSL_xxXxoN2DjE6P2BhTq9nZSqc3ktjtRRqzLbewY_BJBQDWsP6Vpxotda5tZ_2vUd0UFE_mcP4K0fVE3gQz2XCw/s500/254%20The%20Inmate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="313" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSlCfMrcoacVnOOwoxa7BipTbEqsw2cS9EjJFYnZjmayAhilyhzfiPP0Ijf55ANGKw_-UpKil0qiUkGAVQsXwOS6WvnxxyRmEDXTSL_xxXxoN2DjE6P2BhTq9nZSqc3ktjtRRqzLbewY_BJBQDWsP6Vpxotda5tZ_2vUd0UFE_mcP4K0fVE3gQz2XCw/s320/254%20The%20Inmate.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>I don't think I'd describe this as a thriller but if you're looking for an easy-reading, fast-paced story to fill your afternoon this one might be for you. The characters don't have a lot of depth and jumping back and forth in time can be confusing but I did enjoy McFadden's clear voice. 3 Stars <p></p>R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-57063665035337993982021-07-01T16:35:00.002-07:002021-07-01T16:38:25.099-07:00Chimera Island<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYw6zHKH19y3OzskOv3F585iPtbBpCZF64YMFfaMJPES4naH3mRRukvpopllfQa_cZJCN9_souhjHZm_hI69FMExPerDDExQ3mTrJuzTX-Y2-hczoWAfPHBhXQfYedIY49ieOBtJi-AqQI/s500/252+Chimera+Island.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="328" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYw6zHKH19y3OzskOv3F585iPtbBpCZF64YMFfaMJPES4naH3mRRukvpopllfQa_cZJCN9_souhjHZm_hI69FMExPerDDExQ3mTrJuzTX-Y2-hczoWAfPHBhXQfYedIY49ieOBtJi-AqQI/s320/252+Chimera+Island.jpg" /></a></div>Ships and planes go missing, a research team demands immediate evacuation, mumbling voices, strange lights, feeling like you're being followed, and hovering orbs, all part of the mystery of Chimera Island. A special team was sent in to investigate the craft disappearances and what they found was out of this world or was it? Mr. Hill again demonstrates the ability to clutch the reader's attention with a nifty tale. 4 Stars <p></p>R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-32809915680026217782021-02-20T09:39:00.004-08:002021-02-20T09:39:50.951-08:00Hidden Fury<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdAZvLUAA0ehuJLauXB6ELt7BVGPRQC81iLol8KdlA93ivMmwVZUNNZzSdaenUKDn0VsMXMu0thl3jti3TOB5Fp4VQFz8q24bOCpeEIJbDMuaMweCk4PAWMURXMiJZOykd7rOjRSiwU1r/s500/250+Hidden+Fury.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="313" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdAZvLUAA0ehuJLauXB6ELt7BVGPRQC81iLol8KdlA93ivMmwVZUNNZzSdaenUKDn0VsMXMu0thl3jti3TOB5Fp4VQFz8q24bOCpeEIJbDMuaMweCk4PAWMURXMiJZOykd7rOjRSiwU1r/s320/250+Hidden+Fury.jpg" /></a></div>Discovering past secrets can be a daunting experience. Preston Farr and his family find that out in Marie Flanigan's new book. This was a fast-moving and enjoyable read. Flanigan's voice is clear and her style is smooth and easy. My guess is there will be a third book in the Annie Fitch Mysteries series and I look forward to it. 5 Stars <p></p>R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-11425545474590895132021-01-14T15:06:00.001-08:002021-01-14T15:08:38.422-08:00The Cougar Candidate<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjExRbubZIlTaw33wmisXyhSI-jh7HXTs6JdnXaGY8bO_lNBHlBequIJje8r7TQtTkheathaD3iPqlP2cYbU4EhRMPGgWwEK6Jyu_KpsL8rAfQwJHrJAVy0LMsL2Y2z7V1DZD8OZzO126Md/s499/249+The+Cougar+Candidate.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="324" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjExRbubZIlTaw33wmisXyhSI-jh7HXTs6JdnXaGY8bO_lNBHlBequIJje8r7TQtTkheathaD3iPqlP2cYbU4EhRMPGgWwEK6Jyu_KpsL8rAfQwJHrJAVy0LMsL2Y2z7V1DZD8OZzO126Md/s320/249+The+Cougar+Candidate.jpg" /></a></div>Meet a brash male President running for a second term and the fifty-something female former California Governor who wants his job. There's a cub reporter trying to prove himself covering her campaign and her imaginary sexy friend filling her head with useless advice. Worsley spins this silly political tale so smoothly that it borders on sarcasm. If you like to laugh this is a must-read. 4 stars <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div> <p></p>R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-22613278609409933062020-12-24T15:23:00.003-08:002020-12-24T15:25:19.687-08:00A Sense of Purpose<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqSl-7XQ9lMMef-BKYTeke4FsP67PfS7jR-afvcYvBgXRhht7SGB8y6U6xUcrpnpt-4Hh_w_rC9zfDBqBZJyQkCIMlHXoSjxX4qkeE89wWFASeLF8ajhV4sxeN5pK2cABhIrbybvrNclQj/s499/248+A+Sense+of+Purpose.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqSl-7XQ9lMMef-BKYTeke4FsP67PfS7jR-afvcYvBgXRhht7SGB8y6U6xUcrpnpt-4Hh_w_rC9zfDBqBZJyQkCIMlHXoSjxX4qkeE89wWFASeLF8ajhV4sxeN5pK2cABhIrbybvrNclQj/s320/248+A+Sense+of+Purpose.jpg" /></a></div>The story of an orphaned Manhattan cat named Chester. The tale begins with the death of Chester's mother and follows his journey from loneliness to adventure and finally contentment. The story is well thought through and written in a calm and quiet voice. Curl up on the couch on a cold winter day and enjoy this one. 4 Stars<br /> <p></p>R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-22834615719303467132019-12-24T12:49:00.001-08:002019-12-24T12:49:49.417-08:00Pokergeist<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw4dI7vvdWTsFSNImcFAt85ECgImlbs_qPz4_68t7LJHKN658xXn6gk_EPkH4ZIFB82zZKSAt2lf-ils83MULoEQfSBjNzrpNHR9dxMryELJGtUxcT4gHqqb20s_sRcNnT-_Wa2ebcaWvE/s1600/247+Pokergeist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="224" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw4dI7vvdWTsFSNImcFAt85ECgImlbs_qPz4_68t7LJHKN658xXn6gk_EPkH4ZIFB82zZKSAt2lf-ils83MULoEQfSBjNzrpNHR9dxMryELJGtUxcT4gHqqb20s_sRcNnT-_Wa2ebcaWvE/s320/247+Pokergeist.jpg" width="207" /></a></div>
Sometimes what's lurking in the shadows goes unnoticed until it jumps right out and presents itself. In this case it a second chance, but can the protagonist move forward and really take advantage of the opportunity? Nicely done and fun to read. 4 starsR W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-14543828259661553502019-12-21T12:56:00.001-08:002019-12-21T12:56:32.957-08:00Stillwell<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikrgOzfpLFY4OKPHZ8t_RCc9FoQvUpWi7EreMo3UN4hPZ_c35zdDLMZmn6GaWqSsNf2NxAqOmAN-sjxhOAIIhunCoBrWU6hYdnj29UyDO_fribC_YPcuAGuElVX4bCLTUQgpTgp0e1FXog/s1600/246+Stillwell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="226" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikrgOzfpLFY4OKPHZ8t_RCc9FoQvUpWi7EreMo3UN4hPZ_c35zdDLMZmn6GaWqSsNf2NxAqOmAN-sjxhOAIIhunCoBrWU6hYdnj29UyDO_fribC_YPcuAGuElVX4bCLTUQgpTgp0e1FXog/s320/246+Stillwell.jpg" width="209" /></a></div>
Complex are the feelings a person can experience when a loved one passes. The loss, the guilt, the grief. Cash allows the reader to feel them all in this intense story masked in a ghostly disguise. His crisp, clear voice is penetrating. 5 stars R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-50619714251422358032019-12-20T12:20:00.001-08:002019-12-20T12:20:11.045-08:00The Flip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyK_93QOyLBHwefycN6K-e2GQefk0FKODmj4p4mwRkRgW2WkINzNe3ernAkv_c2BZYSSWavw8-KnT97CVxUfbG4dLkXT7CzxHiYOBa95WP2-kBsP_rwBsXs-BEsOYVpM1A7m13EgZWUbpz/s1600/245+The+Flip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="230" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyK_93QOyLBHwefycN6K-e2GQefk0FKODmj4p4mwRkRgW2WkINzNe3ernAkv_c2BZYSSWavw8-KnT97CVxUfbG4dLkXT7CzxHiYOBa95WP2-kBsP_rwBsXs-BEsOYVpM1A7m13EgZWUbpz/s320/245+The+Flip.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
An eerie, dilapidated old mansion surely is the perfect abode for sullen spirits. If you like a good ghost story pick this one up. The narrative flows smoothly and the author has a crisp, clear voice. The back story is very well integrated and adds just the right amount of color to the story. 5 starsR W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-88282502753188174582019-12-19T10:23:00.004-08:002019-12-19T10:23:47.625-08:00Brood X<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM3ETrczlVJxcyPm1urdG9FkgRSkkQwvQsxTSc4feMeImJvaVX6NuCENsOO5sFxXKyp8ZYP5AdvbNv-XlYwfbSqlqYK7M0u-3fKooUCeY3twHHvYUxDnOCK5UkHSPn5g1BidgFeuTiCSnT/s1600/244+Brood+X.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="256" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM3ETrczlVJxcyPm1urdG9FkgRSkkQwvQsxTSc4feMeImJvaVX6NuCENsOO5sFxXKyp8ZYP5AdvbNv-XlYwfbSqlqYK7M0u-3fKooUCeY3twHHvYUxDnOCK5UkHSPn5g1BidgFeuTiCSnT/s320/244+Brood+X.jpg" width="235" /></a></div>
It's been said that if the author can't hook the reader in the first chapter, all may be lost. I never felt the hook in this story, yet I was surprisingly propelled to the end even though I didn't like the subject matter. Weird, but a noteworthy technique. 2 Stars R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-55058138356382413832019-12-17T16:02:00.000-08:002019-12-17T16:04:31.049-08:00Witches Protection Program<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF9Z_tubQKaYn6nznpEq5uOIMeoQjue5bStAcdTikm5SvIXg36-pDj77ou4QxtK0EeZ82dVStB115v8svGMywdIEdgCFffMe1A6BYCHVgcSy_ppaM05atSMiUnXfH-orBeC0h7dJ88-DFX/s1600/243+Witches+Portection+Program.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="224" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF9Z_tubQKaYn6nznpEq5uOIMeoQjue5bStAcdTikm5SvIXg36-pDj77ou4QxtK0EeZ82dVStB115v8svGMywdIEdgCFffMe1A6BYCHVgcSy_ppaM05atSMiUnXfH-orBeC0h7dJ88-DFX/s320/243+Witches+Portection+Program.jpg" width="207" /></a></div>
This quirky little fantasy tells the tale of a secret coterie whose duty was to protect the Davinas (good witches) and investigate the Willas (bad witches). Slow to start but once he got going Okon's narrative was fast paced, smooth and well written. It really was fun to read. 5 Stars R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-75438766283783500502019-12-14T16:10:00.001-08:002019-12-14T16:11:25.584-08:00The Devil and Dayna Dalton<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjusHKAcp207eKVrFGU66Y6g4NvOu7qMObmZSi-DyAS9UtctM2LHRbhsvp9z9Ob1g8sCy8xQ4Tw39P0Y4oV9hgWkWnYMf6NIfQyhsm_HWo8JdhXHeli6fXrEI62o8tG71m0EgcFK26LtWod/s1600/242+The+Devil+and+Dayna+Dalton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="215" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjusHKAcp207eKVrFGU66Y6g4NvOu7qMObmZSi-DyAS9UtctM2LHRbhsvp9z9Ob1g8sCy8xQ4Tw39P0Y4oV9hgWkWnYMf6NIfQyhsm_HWo8JdhXHeli6fXrEI62o8tG71m0EgcFK26LtWod/s320/242+The+Devil+and+Dayna+Dalton.jpg" width="198" /></a></div>
The vibrant imagination of Ms. Lunden is profound in the Devil and Dayna Dalton. Dayna, another character briefly mentioned in Bulwark, is a soul seemingly without direction. Her only certain desire is the sheriff until she is swept away by the Master of Darkness. Take this one for a spin, it's fast. 4 StarsR W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-66996474195388710702019-12-13T15:27:00.000-08:002019-12-13T15:32:37.559-08:00The Knowing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_AWSZx3eL9BtpC31WDUvimdYcn4KQoWdbmD5RurTyDiOltb0QDAgU1VMhfVfTUK4iwq-iUUEZsJyHAxlmWRmXBQRkPP1JLA1dUpPTzFDTnzKFf6loFBxx_ErPdUZSiKPpqnQ6HVCuV2r/s1600/241+The+Knowing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="218" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_AWSZx3eL9BtpC31WDUvimdYcn4KQoWdbmD5RurTyDiOltb0QDAgU1VMhfVfTUK4iwq-iUUEZsJyHAxlmWRmXBQRkPP1JLA1dUpPTzFDTnzKFf6loFBxx_ErPdUZSiKPpqnQ6HVCuV2r/s320/241+The+Knowing.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
The Knowing is a love story and in segue from the novel Bulwark. JB Straton, briefly mentioned in Bulwark, is now the protagonist. Ms. Lunden penned the narrative in a manner that allows the reader to feel the emotions of a young man growing up and develop a sense of hope for second chances. 4 Stars R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-21615016052363543662019-12-12T16:19:00.000-08:002019-12-12T16:19:50.786-08:00Bulwark<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje3wTziSB3X6lYKWfpKIqX1rlqldFcduw58GdZn9mCAa5lvJyc8lAAVsVHiW_pBp2KMNT7ocHggZM68AuMVjBdDxYd5vCzNDlLoIu85qxmW0tgshUR8YCKqmBcE2sLwMvxlIHZwBQHBr8O/s1600/240+Bulwark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="218" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje3wTziSB3X6lYKWfpKIqX1rlqldFcduw58GdZn9mCAa5lvJyc8lAAVsVHiW_pBp2KMNT7ocHggZM68AuMVjBdDxYd5vCzNDlLoIu85qxmW0tgshUR8YCKqmBcE2sLwMvxlIHZwBQHBr8O/s320/240+Bulwark.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Paranormal novels are not on the top of my to-read list, but this one is an impressive exception. Bulwark is a spellbinding tale of a sheriff, his estranged wife, their missing baby, and a mysterious Gingerbread House. Ms. Lunden provides plenty of fast-moving suspense to pique your interest and before you know it you'll have finished the story. No matter what genre interests you don't let this one slip by. 5 Stars R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-54907043877787267452019-12-11T14:20:00.000-08:002019-12-11T14:20:17.136-08:00If You Were Me and Lived in the American West<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQm5X0N7jhCzljoDkPZ4_SZ24qoFC1rIbvr2ACpa4LsEofzUUzZbgqNEjnizI8OpZEGHNv0_dKXNUkihcOxECfMYzcD3Rm9tyDjdoJPTdPw6zBcFcVZneaWIikn5cRyTQrJ7IVA2KVY-sm/s1600/239+If+You+Were+Me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="260" data-original-width="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQm5X0N7jhCzljoDkPZ4_SZ24qoFC1rIbvr2ACpa4LsEofzUUzZbgqNEjnizI8OpZEGHNv0_dKXNUkihcOxECfMYzcD3Rm9tyDjdoJPTdPw6zBcFcVZneaWIikn5cRyTQrJ7IVA2KVY-sm/s1600/239+If+You+Were+Me.jpg" /></a></div>
This is a historical look at the migration of Americans to the West. The narrative is nicely done and easy to read. In the end, the author profiles some famous people from the American West. The illustrations are absolutely amazing, the best I have ever seen. All in all a good children's book. 4 Stars R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-38238935661718772692019-08-27T16:54:00.003-07:002019-09-14T10:27:44.185-07:00A Distant Past An Uncertain Future " <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_f8eZMtViIByeULdZeolEr4RTSuApVhyw90GKiflk-pmTM6FQ_ZP23qK3LqDri8vFe46wNK6cPNP8mI2FCj05PUnsQ8afocOo9YpAcJw8iCeC5cuIlL9HuR3Wln8oJZFAiyG6sI0VeXKK/s1600/238+A+Distant+Past+An+Uncertain+Future.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="227" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_f8eZMtViIByeULdZeolEr4RTSuApVhyw90GKiflk-pmTM6FQ_ZP23qK3LqDri8vFe46wNK6cPNP8mI2FCj05PUnsQ8afocOo9YpAcJw8iCeC5cuIlL9HuR3Wln8oJZFAiyG6sI0VeXKK/s320/238+A+Distant+Past+An+Uncertain+Future.jpg" width="209" /></a></div>
Thomas Blake, a very successful author, has lead an incredibly rich life. Then one day, out of the blue, an event shocks him to his core and sends his psyche into a very dark abyss. He questions whether he'll ever be able to recover or does he even want to. A small cafe where he escapes to for a coffee offers a group of surfers that renders a glimpse of his distant past. Slowly, he becomes immersed in their lives and brings him to the brink of healing. Klein has a very soft and engaging voice that entices you to read on. 5 Stars R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-36170143341890453482019-06-30T08:55:00.002-07:002019-09-14T10:16:34.606-07:00The Triplets' Secret<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9f3tItX0q5QrtNjz3KdiBnSMyZS4XUkYDKZ0m6IPaB_Cd5tyvlXlavAylWJSCNUcbOaP7FrL6wlonYU7T9EcEQepntej43iVDa1YEAVLZ-PNUv4Ma7XUkVmkywU3Ti5y7fj1ZTpN_cm5d/s1600/237+The+Triplets%2527+Secret.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="328" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9f3tItX0q5QrtNjz3KdiBnSMyZS4XUkYDKZ0m6IPaB_Cd5tyvlXlavAylWJSCNUcbOaP7FrL6wlonYU7T9EcEQepntej43iVDa1YEAVLZ-PNUv4Ma7XUkVmkywU3Ti5y7fj1ZTpN_cm5d/s320/237+The+Triplets%2527+Secret.jpg" width="209" /></a></div>
Jennifer Sturgis, a retired journalist decided to write a story about a Riverfield cold case, the disappearance of Crystal Scott. The triplets, Maggie, Karen, and Lisa were suspected of murdering Crystal, a Riverfield resident. Crystal was also a person of interest in the death of Patty Stanley. Riverfield was a labyrinth of secrets and Jennifer's interviews with the triplets began releasing them one by one. But the triplets weren't the one ones that had secrets. The story starts out a little slow but has enough oomph to keep you reading. 3 StarsR W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-66412431334387594122019-03-09T16:49:00.000-08:002019-09-14T10:16:55.552-07:00Frankie Jones<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoA2vTHRALTgQWasuTa_nWCA_XvgOc2M-FyUA5dWYEa7SdA99K6apaOcYBEasz9S93ygBJVDAED1NtcDdI339K4oskfjLVSlcxSu8972v36AjnKbeI-4M45wFzY2CT6eLs9R17zUNxgmlw/s1600/236+Frankie+Jones.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="228" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoA2vTHRALTgQWasuTa_nWCA_XvgOc2M-FyUA5dWYEa7SdA99K6apaOcYBEasz9S93ygBJVDAED1NtcDdI339K4oskfjLVSlcxSu8972v36AjnKbeI-4M45wFzY2CT6eLs9R17zUNxgmlw/s320/236+Frankie+Jones.jpg" width="210" /></a></div>
Abandoned by his father and orphaned by his mother's death, Frankie Jones entered adult life with gusto and determination. Was it the American Dream that Frankie sought or was it just to find himself and his place in the world? What Frankie ultimately found was sadly not what he was looking for or expected. J. R. Klein has created a character that will drive you to invoke questions about yourself, but there is one thing that is certain. You will not want to put this book down and when you're finished you will be very glad you read it. 5 StarsR W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-439279967286205102019-02-26T16:15:00.000-08:002019-09-14T10:17:34.928-07:00Premonition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLiRBEfQX8unpfrwWCsZCFRVSNRXvbdgumNrRVE4HZqqp54LVKY3mtXVdb744SBGNlWjUdjrE15DP8To2sYhxahKMAMJjj9PTOwXZ-B1lmeowMYGQzrJEbt7yQHLkOnRTD0p_bhTtZgs1C/s1600/235+Premonition.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="222" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLiRBEfQX8unpfrwWCsZCFRVSNRXvbdgumNrRVE4HZqqp54LVKY3mtXVdb744SBGNlWjUdjrE15DP8To2sYhxahKMAMJjj9PTOwXZ-B1lmeowMYGQzrJEbt7yQHLkOnRTD0p_bhTtZgs1C/s320/235+Premonition.jpg" width="204" /></a></div>
This story starts in Homeville, Virginia in both 1972 and 1864. It tells a tale of mistrust, deceit, infidelity, and murder. The author begins in 1972 with murder and flashes back to the civil war period to provide the background of a secretive family with interracial relations. I admire Lowe's success in actually bringing together two separate stories and numerous characters. This is the fourth review I have done for Tower Lowe and without a doubt, Premonition has proven to be her most difficult undertaking. If you admire an author's technical skills you will be delighted when you read this saga. 4 Stars R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-77146761811697693202019-01-04T14:21:00.000-08:002019-09-14T10:17:49.513-07:00Polar Melt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj02T_SJ4CqanCLb5amv-akhk0JnR0EgiGSgTEmhUMIXYhfkjou8nOIUoa2YZMGAdo1yxFSJQA4fypZNkRvHeKdH1xBzf2bFHkjTzZHTO6_WiKswjNSBYQL-02ZTqUk_tIgrE5cLId8blgn/s1600/234+Polar+Melt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="314" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj02T_SJ4CqanCLb5amv-akhk0JnR0EgiGSgTEmhUMIXYhfkjou8nOIUoa2YZMGAdo1yxFSJQA4fypZNkRvHeKdH1xBzf2bFHkjTzZHTO6_WiKswjNSBYQL-02ZTqUk_tIgrE5cLId8blgn/s320/234+Polar+Melt.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
This is another well-written novel from Martin Roy Hill. The fast-paced and riveting yarn describes events in the Arctic during a time of rapid ice melt. The Russians have built what appears to be an oil drilling platform, and the Americans have a spy ship disguised as a research vessel monitoring the Russian's activities. As the plot thickens, it holds the reader within its grasp while the strong clear voice of Hill comes shining through. If you like an action novel, get this one. You won't be disappointed. 5 Stars<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-1342738458340795112018-08-24T14:26:00.000-07:002019-09-14T10:18:06.082-07:00Exposed Fury<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCLpNxsPtcgudOqUHdk6Z3Dgxpji-xF24I4jSAiE48TWoPopPkXYChZiImGsVR_9zoFd02R9kZ5OqwGR9tfV9szfpjhKcRC9YKVWOM_UZPL-A8TZAAYwC7a8vEkt_7VS6m46GrkyUYjhBo/s1600/233+Exposed+Fury.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="218" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCLpNxsPtcgudOqUHdk6Z3Dgxpji-xF24I4jSAiE48TWoPopPkXYChZiImGsVR_9zoFd02R9kZ5OqwGR9tfV9szfpjhKcRC9YKVWOM_UZPL-A8TZAAYwC7a8vEkt_7VS6m46GrkyUYjhBo/s320/233+Exposed+Fury.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Overall this was a good read, albeit I found it a little slow getting started. The character, Ford is a mystery from beginning to end and seems to be more of a prop than a contributing factor. Flanigan has a smooth style and a clear, concise voice throughout. 4 Stars R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-36016129249071179072018-08-15T14:48:00.000-07:002019-09-14T10:18:18.185-07:00Dead Lemons<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJFVLHHryAAqZ7pEqqlRAThELo1INOYf2Xlz95tT3j83eGaaKzL4PwWVWLJgIKpRdd_QwlswxxnvliHE8OXyTq8fs0E6QzNL1IvgKdlBvyOYPQDf_4GLCNmUGiKP8bETZPym-rUbzfBvzl/s1600/232+Dead+Lemons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJFVLHHryAAqZ7pEqqlRAThELo1INOYf2Xlz95tT3j83eGaaKzL4PwWVWLJgIKpRdd_QwlswxxnvliHE8OXyTq8fs0E6QzNL1IvgKdlBvyOYPQDf_4GLCNmUGiKP8bETZPym-rUbzfBvzl/s320/232+Dead+Lemons.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
This is only the second book I've read where the author is successful in jumping back and forth in time. Bell combines the past and the present with a clear and concise voice that keeps the reader from getting bored because the story does get slow at times. 4 Stars R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-85662152516827339522018-08-09T15:37:00.002-07:002019-09-14T10:18:40.189-07:00Pancake Money<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK-lTa_T01OItKh5i97ph3Z6jIgl1X9fZV-XLatH8rKhAai-Wg8NOmNe8xI0uU3OkhcqwgzT2Q4bjEsENRex7GAw242agBE3PHo__V08rgzV3th6KLxUpz1zdqK6RsK-Ltn1jawhhynQbS/s1600/231+Pancake+Money.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="230" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK-lTa_T01OItKh5i97ph3Z6jIgl1X9fZV-XLatH8rKhAai-Wg8NOmNe8xI0uU3OkhcqwgzT2Q4bjEsENRex7GAw242agBE3PHo__V08rgzV3th6KLxUpz1zdqK6RsK-Ltn1jawhhynQbS/s320/231+Pancake+Money.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
Great plot, the kind that grows on you to the point of not wanting to stop reading. Bell has a strong, clear voice, but a slightly choppy style. If you like a good murder mystery, you're sure to love this one. 5 StarsR W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-3152905166386942862018-06-14T14:33:00.001-07:002019-09-14T10:19:23.201-07:00Miller's View<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcFa5dVgAmars0AVRQevwf5xcYMpqUvga1cOS6PuVNIhgE9tdu6zFAjDdLznDIK7JNEVJfi2lZtfD489dCAQrk8wqi8KL0zSIpn2iSy0a2KfAGeNb_2iygEWlDVrjhdbcg8kWWYNvPfk8A/s1600/230+The+Alley+Rat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcFa5dVgAmars0AVRQevwf5xcYMpqUvga1cOS6PuVNIhgE9tdu6zFAjDdLznDIK7JNEVJfi2lZtfD489dCAQrk8wqi8KL0zSIpn2iSy0a2KfAGeNb_2iygEWlDVrjhdbcg8kWWYNvPfk8A/s320/230+The+Alley+Rat.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
Miller's View: Book Five. Cranston Turner is revitalizing a poor area of Hammond, but the community church stands in his way. A reverend, a deacon and thirty church members lose their lives in an attempt to obtain the church. An eyewitness to one of the murders, Skylar (Birdy) Branson is hunted down and killed. Birdy was the niece of Detective Branson, Miller's partner. As the plot expands, Miller uses the rose-colored glasses in the investigation. This is a pretty straightforward story, light, entertaining and the ending suggests more stories to come. 3 Stars.R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1635634479918990548.post-14052341907392542018-06-12T14:53:00.000-07:002019-09-14T10:19:38.902-07:00Miller's View<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGcVypQczuX60u506QgpQwbyrp3wmwVholemvLVvw5lx8Pjs80qdC7zDNrFIXjYJhP3aOZZ_S7TnNZYBxVFVE6wowNh3Kw6ZQhFAyLuYJJjW2db-01TqZEQtGp-g7cmpwI4GhUroGdoVQh/s1600/229+The+Island+of+the+Dead.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="226" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGcVypQczuX60u506QgpQwbyrp3wmwVholemvLVvw5lx8Pjs80qdC7zDNrFIXjYJhP3aOZZ_S7TnNZYBxVFVE6wowNh3Kw6ZQhFAyLuYJJjW2db-01TqZEQtGp-g7cmpwI4GhUroGdoVQh/s320/229+The+Island+of+the+Dead.jpg" width="209" /></a></div>
Miller's View: Book Four. Detective Jonathan Miller and Callie St. Claire are now married and honeymooning on the Island of the Dead. The police find a woman murdered and her companion badly beaten, Miller is accused. He convinces Detective Laura Newman to allow him to help in her investigation. Eventually, the pair solves that case, but uncover a lead in a cold case. When Miller and Newman solve the cold case, Miller returns to Lousiana and his new bride. Potts again displays the ability to unveil little secrets that enhance the plot. Her stories are inviting and easy to read in spite of the technical errors. 3 Stars <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />R W Langhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17354821252750029094noreply@blogger.com0