Book Reviews – Page 3 – Author D.L. Finn

December Book Reviews! @TerryTyler4 @LisetteBrodey @bakeandwrite @TPolen6 @JoanHallWrites#writingcommunity #bookreviews #whattoread #mustread #readersoftwitter

Here are the great books I read in November that were four stars and higher. Click on the book titles for the Amazon link.

Safe Zone

By Terry Tyler

The story continues after a decade of living with the virus that makes humans into zombies. There are familiar faces from past stories trying to find each other again. Many that don’t get killed end up in the surviving safe zone in the UK. It’s not all perfect in the safe zone and a work camp for many, but they are safe for now. Norah is inside and Brian is trying to make his way to her after they were separated. I couldn’t help but root for this couple’s reunion and a bit of good luck for them. Although survival is the theme, it is about relationships, greed, control, mental health, and love. It was a hard read to put down, as I kept saying just one more chapter to see what happens next. Then the virus takes a turn and mutates, which puts everyone at a much greater risk and speeds up the urgency to find safety. I’m eager to see what happens next to the survivors in the next book! A perfect read for Walking Dead fans, or those who love a great zombie story, and I can easily recommend it.

WHAT THE YEARS REMEMBER

By Lisette Brodey

Two fraternal twins, complete opposites, parted ways as teens. Jade hates her sister Amber and after an attempt to kill her as teens, Amber changes her name and plays dead. The mother takes Jade and goes to California and the father raises Amber, who now goes by a different name. When Jade marries, the parents change their name too, and move away. Life should be okay for Amber and her parents now, but Jade comes home and looks for her parents after a murder. She lives in a delusional world where only her needs count. Amber lives in fear of her sister, who still wants what she has—her husband. This is a fast-paced story that dives into a family who has lived with a deadly mental illness with someone who outwits any help. The story is told through first person and different perspectives, giving a chilling insight into Jade’s frame of mind. I thought the story would venture in one direction, but it took a different turn, which was an unexpected twist. I admired how Amber, Michael, and their friends take responsibility for their own safety. Characters from a previous story also made a welcome appearance. This suspenseful thriller will keep you hooked!

Sesi says goodbye to Granny

By Robbie Cheadle, Michael Cheadle

“Sesi says goodbye to Granny” is an engaging story for young readers and their parents and an educational one too. Sesi is concerned her beloved Granny is leaving the herd and her leadership role. The tale gently describes the change coming and how the herd will carry on. Elephant facts were shared, many unknown to me. I have always had a soft spot for elephants, so the learning part was enjoyable, but the artwork and photography captured my heart. I usually read books on my Kindle. This time I read the book on my cell phone, which was a tremendous bonus seeing everything in vivid color and detail. The book’s blend of art, facts, and fiction charmed me as an adult, and I envisioned the delight a child would find in its pages. Great gift for children and family.

The Power of Three

By Teri Polen

Beck Teller and his family finally caught some luck by inheriting a house from a distant relative. They could pay off some hefty medical bills and find stability in the old home. His two brothers, little sister, and parents set out to tidy up the home. Each sibling gets a room, and things improve until strange things happen. One brother hears things, one sees things and Beck finds a hidden room full of holy water and salt. Plus, it shows the family may have had another occupation besides the furniture business. Beck is the middle brother who loves books, he is thrilled the house has a library. His brothers are more into sports, but they all agree about their little sister. She can do no wrong in their eyes. As the secrets unravel, it becomes clear this family is in danger and their safety might fall on the three brothers. I liked Beck’s character and his relationships with his brothers and little sister. It seemed natural how they got along, or didn’t, along with the humor. Still, they are always there for each other. Twists and surprises popped up along the way. I couldn’t help but root for the boys and found it hard to put down once they figured out what was happening and drew together. Although this is a YA it could be easily read by a high-end middle-grade reader or tween. If you enjoy cozy ghost stories centered on a haunted house and unsuspecting family, this book is for you!

Blood Red Dawn: Legends of Madeira Book Two

By Joan Hall

I enjoyed the first book, “Cold Dark Night” and was eager to get back to Madeira and its residences. This story is told through a dual timeline with romances involving brave men serving their country. In the 1800s Faydra and Jonathan are drawn to each other. He is a soldier at the fort outside of Madeira. Their story is being told through Abbey’s nana with a hint of a twister to come. Conner, a Navy Seal who suffered an injury, found his way back to Abbey and was given a second chance. Conner is battling his past and there is a stark contrast to how PTSD is handled now and back in the 1800s. While the story unfolds, someone means Conner harm, and Abbey, who is gifted with premonitions, is warned that something bad is about to happen. I loved the relationship between Conner and Abbey, along with the local support given to vets. I felt for Jonathan’s situation without that support but still rooted for a happy outcome for them. The setting is detailed, making me want to visit New Mexico, and their meals made me hungry! I changed my guess about who was after Conner several times. A cozy mystery with characters I was rooting for with an ending I couldn’t predict on more than one level. I look forward to the next installment from Madeira and can easily recommend this.

Note and a bit of a rant: I have been having internet issues for the last three weeks. I had an appointment they didn’t make. Then they came the next day without telling me and declared it all fixed. It wasn’t and I only found out because I called them. So after hours on the phone with tech and she said yes, there is a problem in the line we made another appt. The next day another tech calls and says it’s all fixed just a glitch. It was a touch better but not fixed—and I had to insist on that. Then he told me it was only meant to look at emails. Funny, that wasn’t the case three weeks ago. So, still waiting on the appt if they show this week. I can pull up some things and others I can’t, or it takes forever. I feel like I’ve gone back to the 90s dial-up in a lot of cases. My thought is they are trying to encourage me to drop them as they are other customers to get rid of DSL in our area and they are trying to get rid of all landlines too. Unfortunately, that’s all we have at the moment but I am on a waiting list for Starlink which would require a tree climb or that promised fiber optic cable that the state still hasn’t approved. End of my rant but why I’m not always around and can’t share blog posts all the time.

Also: There will be an early Books That Changed Me next week and a newsletter. Then I will be going on a holiday break and hopefully, you will find some books to give as gifts this season.

Embrace your inner child by reading a good book and don’t forget to give the gift of reading this holiday season! D. L. Finn

November Book Reviews! @JanSikes3 @frank_prem @LBroday @JillWeatherholt @pokercubster @SLMarchisello #writingcommunity #bookreviews #whattoread #mustread #readersoftwitter

Here are the great books I read in October that were four stars and higher. Click on the book titles for the Amazon link.

A Noble Bargain

By Jan Sikes

I read and loved the first book “Beggar’s Bargain” and was eager to jump into a new story in the series. Oliver Quinn took care of his loving family after his father was killed in a work accident. His dream is to become a professional baseball player. Rose Blaine takes care of her family after losing her mother. The difference between the two is in one home there is love and respect while the other one is full of fear and abuse. When they meet at a local dance, Rose immediately captures Oliver’s attention. A friendship develops as Oliver tries to figure out how to help Rose. When Rose’s home situation reaches a critical point, she and Oliver strike a bargain. He will drive Rose and her brother to their aunt and uncle in St. Louis and they will introduce him to a famous baseball player, her uncle. This is a story of strong contrasts. On one side Oliver’s family is there for each other and they treat each other with kindness whereas Rose’s father and business partner are both cruel and each day it’s a challenge for Rose to survive. Some heavy subjects like abuse and rape were addressed, and Rose’s home situation had me worried. Yet, she had a strength that I could admire that bloomed under some kindhearted help. Oliver’s nonjudgmental nature and willingness to do the right thing, regardless of personal gain, were admirable. It was nice to see characters from the previous story and catch up on their story too. Oliver’s family and Rose and her brothers captured my heart, and I lost sleep not being able to stop reading. This is a story I highly recommend, and think is Ms. Sikes’ best yet.

Pilgrim: Volume 1

by Frank Prem

“Pilgrim: Volume 1” is a thoughtful collection of poems woven together with the word pilgrim. The blurb called “Pilgrim” small wisdoms, but it felt bigger to me as it touched on our journey through life. There are little illustrated feet that creatively guide us to the next poem. A quick but powerful read. Here are only some of the words that touched me: “listen pilgrim/do you hear/the stillness/even the sound/of a cicada/is embraced/in the silence…”—thought sound, “…listen to the sound/of your inner self/when you contemplate/your transformation/you know/this too/is an elemental magic”—elemental alchemy,” and “this is the nature of time/and what is a life/but time/spent/waiting”—natural waiting. These are poems that are meant to be read more than once. I highly recommend this poetry collection!

Wildwood Healer: A Novel

By Linda Broday

Sicily lives alone after losing the only man she loved years before and is the town healer. She gathers herbs and mushrooms to help the local people. She was the closest thing they had to a doctor during the Great Depression. One day, she finds a dog on her doorstep and later finds the young teen who has been hiding in the woods. She takes him in and helps everyone she can including abused wives. I was invested in Sicily and the town from the first page. There were some kind people but also some cruel and corrupt and Sicily had the strength to stand up to them. The story deals with serious issues such as abuse, hunger, mistreatment of children, and corruption, but at its heart, it’s about Sicily’s kindness and determination to do what’s right. I loved the relationship between her and Tate and how she handled a person from her past. The setting was lush, and I could easily picture living in this town during a difficult period in our history when people had so little. But this is where Sicily shone a light and offered solutions instead of despair, making this a hard read to put down. A well-written historical story that captured my heart, I can highly recommend it.

Guarding Her Christmas Secret: An Uplifting Inspirational Romance

By Jill Weatherholt

Hannah Simpson moves to one of my favorite fictional towns, Bluebell, CO. She wants to start over after a tragic loss. Cody Beckett becomes the legal guardian of his best friend’s six-year-old twin girls, McKenzie, and Madison. He gets a call that McKenzie is causing some issues and has to deal with the teacher, Hannah. Although he trains companion dogs, he has no idea what he is doing with the girls. Hannah and Cody have different opinions about how to handle McKenzie. But soon they find themselves thrown together to plan a Christmas festival. The twins are thrilled to have the four of them spend time together, and Hannah is drawn to the dogs in training. I’m happy whenever I visit Bluebell and see old friends. I loved how Cody stepped up by taking the girls, but at the same time didn’t trust himself to raise them. He has a big heart that shines through to the girls and pups. But it’s the slow-burning friendship and attraction between Hannah and Cody that makes this a page-turner. He is patient with Hannah, even not knowing her story and having his fiancé break up with him while Hannah has to deal with her past and loss. Of course, it helps they both have the local grocery store owner looking out for the two of them, along with the girl’s intentions. It’s a heartwarming Christian story that focuses on hope, family, and second chances. I can highly recommend this, especially for reading around the holiday season.

Haiku for the Midnight Hour

By Dawn Pisturino

“Haiku for the Midnight Hour” is a collection of what Ms. Pisturino calls experimental, with a fun twist of darkness. There are seventeen categories, including Home Alone, Creatures in the Night, Fairy Tales, and From Outer Space. I did read it as close to midnight and thoroughly enjoyed it. Here are just a few of my favorites: “ramshackle old house-/ready to fall—hiding ghosts/abandoned spirits”—House, “full moon at midnight/stares boldly at old tombstones/dead come back to life”—Tombstones, “snakes slight through the/grass with eager hunting for/hypnotized victims”—Snakes, “mummy wrappings and/gray ash trail across the floor/unholy wand’ring”—The Mummy, “Cthulhu calling/stretching his tentacles through/space fracturing minds”—Cthulhu, and “moon maidens dancing/under full moon waxing big/pregnant with magic”—Moon Maidens. This is a fantastic poetry collection for Halloween reading, but also for any time of the year. A read I will enjoy more than once and can highly recommend it to poetry lovers.

P.S. I Forgive You

By D.G. Kaye

I read “Conflicted Hearts” and understand what the author grew up with. I could easily relate to an unhealthy childhood and what it requires as an adult to get past it. In “P.S. I Forgive You” Ms. Kaye has cut off communication and contact with her mother to heal and live a better life. But when her mother is dying, a pang of guilt creeps in and another layer of healing comes into play, forgiveness. Whether you do it in person or allow yourself to forgive from a distance, it can heal that pain carried around. This book was a journey to understand her mother while taking care of herself. We all must walk our paths in life and Ms. Kaye found a powerful one that inspired me as a reader and survivor of a damaging childhood. In life, love and liking can be separate truths. We can wish them well but not aspire to be a part of their lives, and we can forgive them to heal ourselves. The author incorporated this wisdom into an interesting reflection on her life and the lessons she learned. I can easily recommend this, especially if you come from a not-so-perfect family too.

Secrets of the Galapagos

By Sharon Marchisello

Giovanna lost her business and fiancé because of a clever con artist. She goes on a cruise with her grandmother to the Galapagos Islands to regroup and perhaps run into the con artist. Giovanna’s relaxing snorkeling trip takes a dark turn when she realizes she has been left behind and the woman she was with is missing. Everyone ignores her inquiries about her new friend and then tragedy hits the cruise ship, and the police become involved. Giovanna is immersed in more than one mystery, with her past coming into the mix. Giovanna is a fun character who is determined to find answers. Her relationship with her grandmother, who has a strong mind adds a lot of depth to the story. But it’s the islands that captured my attention. The setting was beautifully brought to life through the descriptions. I could feel the ocean breeze, see the fish when they snorkeled, and imagine the island’s celebrity turtle, Tio Armando, the passengers were all eager to see. Giovanna’s investigations lead her into danger and an attraction to the local detective. “Secrets of the Galapagos” was an entertaining mystery with a few twists and turns, and an exotic setting that I’d love to visit someday.

Blog Tour Schedule for Miracles and Ghosts

Sandra Cox: November 1^st A Perfect Ghostly Christmas

Liz Gauffreau: November 5th Miracle in ER

John Howell: November 6^th A Man and His Cat

Colleen Chesebro: November 7^th At the Mall & video

Jacqui Murray: November 12^th The Red Truck

Jan Sikes: November 13^th Christmas Reunion

Engage your inner child by reading a book! D. L. Finn

Sounds in the Silence review! #writingcommunity #whattoread #readersoftwitter #mystery #ghost #1920s #1960s #murder #music

I don’t share many reviews for my books, but I wanted to share this one. It was a review that made me smile and do my forest dance, but the PS added that wasn’t included in the review brought an extra smile: This was even better than I expected.

Here’s the review:

A dream come true becomes a deadly nightmare in the novel Sounds In The Silence by D.L. Finn. Maria and Logan Davis are married and deeply in love, and life is full of promise as they move into their dream home, an old secluded mansion by a lake. Intending to make the house a vacation spot, the couple quickly begins renovations only to discover the house has a dark history and that they are not alone there. Forty years earlier, during prohibition, another couple owned the house, Helen and Charles Elliot. The Elliots were also deeply in love and happy with life until a madman shattered it. Determined to find the truth and aid their ghostly guest in the search for justice, Maria and Logan seek answers from a town unwilling to give them, discovering in the process that the worst kind of villains hide behind a facade of righteousness.

Wholesome yet dangerous, Sounds In The Silence by D.L. Finn is a beautiful tale that is both sad and sweet. The plot combines a ghost story and first-class mystery as one woman reaches out across the decades and the veil of life to seek help from a young couple. Themes of light and dark are equally present, as love, justice, delusion, and betrayal play a role in the novel. The characters are few but superbly developed as I readily empathized with some while my skin crawled at the thought of others. A steady and mesmerizing pace that is homey and comforting at times yet full of menace at others creates a riveting tale that is hard to put down. For fans of supernatural tales and mystery, Sounds in the Silence is a cross between “What Dreams May Come” and “Ghost,” and I recommend it wholeheartedly.—Reviewed by Gaius Konstantine for Readers’ Favorite

BOOK VIDEO

Amazon Purchase Link US

Amazon Purchase Link UK

Ghosts and Miracles release is only a couple of days away! Be back Friday for the tour 🙂 Ghosts and Miracles Preorder Link

Embrace your inner child by reading a good book.—Denise

October Book Reviews! @BalroopShado @Virgilante @stacitroilo @Jina_Bazzar @StevieTurner6 @DanDwayneSpenc1 @PaulaCappa1 @AlexanderZPain #writingcommunity #whattoread #readinglist

Here are the books I read in September that were four stars and higher. Sure was a great reading month. Click on the book titles for the Amazon link.

Tracks of Infinity
by C. S. Boyack

Jenny’s reporter career takes a step backward as she is moved to desk work. Cody, her son, needs to write a paper to pass a college science class. While searching work folders, Jenny discovers something intriguing to both her and Cody. They take a day to investigate and stumble upon something curious. Cody’s Professor confirms it’s not a usual find. Things change rapidly after this as they become aware they are being followed. A fellow student, Bai, joins forces with them as they try to find the truth and report it. The relationship between mother and son is fun and natural, as they always seem to have each other’s back. Cody’s focus on sounds and how to make them had me thinking about sound effects in movies. I found that part very interesting. Bai was my favorite character though, as she was just herself and very skilled at electronics, which helped them. It was also good to see the radio show from “The Hat” make a few appearances, too. This story was not only entertaining but also left me thinking. I can easily recommend “Tracks of Infinity.”

Just One Goodbye: Poems from the Heart

By Balroop Singh

When Ms. Singh unexpectedly lost her beloved husband, she turned to poetry as a way of expressing her grief. The first year she wrote through the seasons and found a way to share deep pain that I don’t think I’d be capable of doing. I have always admired Ms. Singh’s well-written poetry but in this collection, she made me empathize and understand as best I could without having gone through this loss. This quick read was not only a testament to a profound love but trying to make sense of it all. Every poem was powerful, and many brought tears, but I won’t share my favorites like I usually do because a couple of sentences can’t capture the emotions behind them. A collection I can highly recommend to not only poetry lovers but those who have known the sudden loss of a loved one.

Born for Revenge

By Staci Troilo

A missing teenage girl comes back after a year. She is uncommunicative and offers no insight into what happened to her. Two other girls are missing, and Detectives Cabe and Holden are determined to find those girls, but their families aren’t cooperating either. I was hooked from the start and couldn’t stop reading, eager to find out what happened next. The story weaves an insightful perspective from an unknown narrator, revealing the reasons behind the events without disclosing the individual involved. My favorite characters and relationships between them are the two detectives, Cabe, and Holden. One of them had a side story and another mystery to solve. I liked their banter, humor, loyalty, and determination. Finding the girls is at the heart of the story with many unexpected twists, making me reconsider my guess of who was behind the kidnappings. A captivating mystery with relatable characters that I strongly recommend.

My Grandmother, The Dinosaur Hunter (The Grandmother Protectorate #1)

By Jina S. Bazzar

An eleven-year-old boy and his younger sister visit their grandmother. One night, they follow her to the edge of the forest. When the grandmother disappears, they follow her. They end up in another world called Cruxil. They quickly find themselves in trouble and need help. It’s here they not only find out they didn’t know their grandmother like they thought, but they might be just like her. A fast and fun middle-grade read that I thoroughly enjoyed. Fantasy based with a dinosaur, hydra, and a large frog, unlike the ones back on earth, it dove into family relationships and doing the right thing. This is a book I will eagerly share with my granddaughters, and I can wholeheartedly recommend it!

Farewell: A Short Story

By Stevie Turner

A fun short story about an aging rock group pulling themselves together for a sold-out tour. They add in a new backup singer Baz met in rehab and head to get some practice in. The new guy, Steve, was my favorite character and the one I was rooting for. Wives and girlfriends were included in this reunion and mixed in were jealousy, some drug use, flirting, and band practice. It seemed to be pulling together when the old backup singer arrived. Everything changed one night when something terrible happened and the police became involved. A coverup starts. The killer’s identity came as no surprise, but the unfolding of events proved fascinating. A different type of read for me that I enjoyed, especially the music part.

Dog Walk of the Apocalypse: A Short Story About One Man, One Dog, and One Zombie

By Alexander Pain

A fun short story about a man who takes his dog for a late-night walk. He doesn’t expect to run into a zombie and calls the police. I laughed out loud at the ending and the modern treatment of zombies. I will be reading more from this author and can easily recommend this quick read.

Hildie at the Ghost Shore

By Paula Cappa

While creating delicate lace, Hildie is interrupted by a sailor. He requests she do a rune reading for him so he can contact his beloved daughter, who has passed. The eerie setting and detailed rune readings added depth to the ghost story, drawing me into Hildie’s world. The conclusion was quite touching. I was immediately captivated by the second bonus story, igniting my curiosity about that world. A girl goes to live with her grandfather. He takes a daily walk at noon, forbidding her to join him. This is a prequel, and I am eager to read the book that follows. A quick and satisfying read and I can easily recommend it.

A Christmas Season in Hell: A Short Story

by Dan-Dwayne Spencer

Aston is a bored English college professor. It’s Christmas break, and a student gets him to promise to read his story, something Aston doesn’t want to do. As he is getting ready to go home for his quiet holiday, the floor gives, and he ends up in a secret room from when the building was a theater. Luckily, his injuries aren’t too severe, and he discovers a source of water, but there is no one left at the school to be aware of his predicament. It’s here he finds a skeleton and a diary. The direction the story took next surprised me and I couldn’t put it down. An engaging short story that I recommend!

Embrace your inner child this fall by reading a good book! D. L. Finn

August Book Reviews! @Sandra_Cox @supermegawoman @RobertaEaton17 @YvetteMCalleiro @dave_astor #mustread #bookreviews #writingcommunity #readingcoummunity

Here are the books I read in July that were four stars and higher. Click on the book titles for the Amazon link.

And the Grave Awaits book cover with red roses against a mainly gray backgroun.

Mateo’s Woman

By Sandra Cox

This third Mateo book continues the story of shifter Mateo and his finance Blair. They are planning their marriage, but something is wrong with Blair after being bitten by an evil enemy. Blair’s mother, Nadine, shows up to help but ends up in the middle of something I couldn’t have predicted. Fortunately, Mateo’s father, who is also a shifter, is there to assist them, but the situation becomes difficult to manage. I love the depth of the relationship between Mateo and Blair and Blair and Lisa. The exquisitely written setting and town turn fiction into a desirable destination that I would be eager to visit, especially in worry-free times. Several unexpected turns make this a gripping read, threatening to obstruct Mateo’s and Blair’s happily ever after. A fantastic addition to Mateo’s world, and I can’t wait to see what happens next. I highly recommend “Mateo’s Woman”!

Amanda in Scotland: The Standing Stones

By Darlene Foster

Amanda is with her friend Leah, visiting Leah’s aunt in Scotland on a small island called Arran. While visiting a castle, they run into a woman dressed in clothes from the past that they helped. Yet, after there was no trace of her. Amanda jumps into the mystery while visiting some interesting places along the way. Although written for middle-grade readers, I enjoy these stories too. They provide not only a fun mystery but also in-depth history and traditions of the places visited. Scotland has captured my interest, so the history and vivid settings were my favorite parts. I would love to visit this island. There are hidden rooms, disappearing boats, and what seems like a ghost that makes this story a page-turner. Perfect for younger readers and those like me who are young at heart!

And the Grave Awaits

by Roberta Eaton Cheadle

“And the Grave Awaits” is a well-written collection of short stories that pulled me in from the first page. Some stories were based on actual events, and others were more in the paranormal realm. The details that went into the historical fiction stories transported me to that time and place. I felt for the hardships the children who swept chimneys underwent under cruel adults in “An Eye for an Eye” or the women painting dials with radioactive paints in “All that Glitters is not Gold.” “The Bite” caught my attention immediately and when wolf spiders came up, I was all in. They are local spiders that have always fascinated me and this spin on spiders and humans was intriguingly unique. After each of the sixteen stories, there’s information like where the story has been published or the history behind it. A fantastic collection I can highly recommend, especially for those who like stories with a darker twist.

Karma Doesn’t Kill

By Yvette M. Calleiro

“Karma Doesn’t Kill” serves as a cautionary tale of a young man’s poor decisions. Growing up, JT had to overcome various difficulties, including having an alcoholic mother and a father who was a convicted felon. He started down the wrong path living with his mother, but his father stepped in and got custody of him. His life appeared to be improving, but then tragedy hit and he ended up back where he started. The story starts with JT being cared for by his little brother. JT shares his story of how he ended up bedridden. Although I knew the outcome, his journey captured my heart, and I was rooting for him. Even with a heartbreaking outcome for JT, he developed an inspiring inner strength, too. A well-written story based on a true story that illustrates the lasting impact of a solitary choice. It’s a quick but powerful read that I highly recommend.

Misty the Cat . . . Unleashed: The Spirited Adventures and Amusing Antics of an Asthmatic Feline on the Loose

By Dave Astor

“Misty the Cat … Unleashed” is told through the cat’s humorous point of view. Out on his daily morning walk, Misty gets separated from his human and chased under a porch in an unfriendly dog’s backyard. Misty waits for the dog to go to sleep at 8:30 pm—or when it gets dark. The cat keeps himself occupied reliving his life stories. He has a strong opinion on various topics, such as the ideal guitar in a song, rewriting classic titles, favorite shows, and his political stance. He can swiftly shift between subjects in his observations, showcasing his quick-wittedness. Although entertained by his stories, I was concerned that Misty was not only stuck under a porch in the heat, but was missing a dose of his needed asthma medication. If you have a love for cats or animals, you’ll enjoy spending time with Misty and his humans.

NOTE: I know I have been scarce, but between our phone line was down which runs our internet (It’s fixed now), some pulled muscles (Yes, connected to the next item), and having to do more clearing on our property in hopes of keeping our homeowner’s insurance (May now have to hire loggers. New rule trees can’t touch each other. This follows hours of work on our part. It took a few emails to get it clearly explained to me. It’s almost like they don’t want us to renew… lol)

In the middle of all of this, I am doing my final edits for my Christmas collection, too. I haven’t been able to visit blogs or have my usual blogs here like I enjoy doing. I am not sure when I’ll be back to my regular schedule. I will still post book reviews and new releases! xo

Embrace your inner child this summer by reading a good book! D. L. Finn

Sounds in the Silence Blog Tour Day 3! #NewRelease @HowellWave #writingcommunity #mystery #ghost #historicalfiction

Hi!

Today is day three of the Sounds in the Silence Blog tour and I’m thrilled to be visiting with John W. Howell. See the note at the end of my blog post here for some exciting news! BLOG TOUR LINK

But, before you go if you haven’t read anything by John W. Howell I encourage you to check out his amazing catalog. His books are not only thrillers but some take us on a journey in the afterlife and history. I have read them all and can attest to how good they are. I will include here his author information on Amazon and also a link to browse his books. AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE LINK

John began his writing as a full-time occupation after an extensive business career. His specialty is thriller fiction novels, but John also writes poetry and short stories. His first book, My GRL, introduces the exciting adventures of the book’s central character, John J. Cannon. The second Cannon novel, His Revenge, continues the tension. The final book in the trilogy, Our Justice, launched in September 2016, concludes the thriller series. John’s fourth book, Circumstances of Childhood, launched in October of 2017, tells a different thriller story of riches to rags, football, Wall Street, brotherly love, redemption, and inspiration with a touch of paranormal to keep you riveted. The fifth book is a collaboration with the award-winning author Gwen Plano titled The Contract. Heavenly bodies become concerned about the stability of the Earth and send two of their own to risk eternal salvation in order to save the planet. The Contract achieved number-one status in its genre. John’s next book is titled Eternal Road – The Final Stop, which launched in September 2020. In search of their eternal home, Sam and James discover a threat to human existence. They also encounter the prince of darkness. The question is, can they save humankind and their eternal souls? John’s latest book is The Last Drive, a sequel to The Eternal Road. Once again, James and Sam must confront Lucifer in order to save not only their souls but those of two others. Lucifer tests them to the limit, and the challenge they face may be more than they can handle. All books are available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle editions.

John lives in Lakeway, Texas with his wife and their spoiled rescue pets.

NOTE: I didn’t mention this in my posts but I will be choosing two random comments and gifting two lucky winners a $10 or $5 Amazon Gift Card.

May Book Reviews! @PatFurstenberg @SueColetta1 @JoyYorkAuthor @DIY_Author @frank_prem merrildsmith.com @bakeandwrite @MarciaMeara @PatFurstenberg #mustread #readinglist #bookreviews #writingcommunity

Here are the books I read in April that were four stars and higher. Click on the book titles for an Amazon universal link.

Dreamland cover

Dreamland: Banat, Crisana, Maramures, Transylvania, 100-WORD STORIES, Folklore and History

By Patricia Furstenberg

“Dreamland” is a collection of hundred-word stories set in Western Romania, which includes Banat, Crișana, Maramureș, Transylvania, and more. There are 117 stories that are based on legends and seeped in history. Many stories are followed by a glance into the history behind that passage. I enjoyed how it offered vivid images of the areas, along with the history and people behind it. Some of the book was whimsical, other parts more dire, but it showed the progression of civilization and survival. It’s a unique way to be entertained and educated at the same time. There are lots of photos included that add a visual of the area being written about. This is a fantastic way to learn how the past shaped the future of Romania. I can easily recommend this well-written book!

Poetry Treasures 4: In Touch with Nature

By Kaye Lynne Booth, Frank Prem, Colleen M Chesebro, Robbie Cheadle, Andrew McDowell, Patricia Furstenberg, Marcia Meara, Emily Gmitter, Selma Martin, Merril D Smith, and D. L. Finn

A fantastic collection of poetry with a favorite theme of mine, nature. I am familiar with and a fan of many of the authors, but the ones I wasn’t, I am a fan now. All the poets have a different style, but each set produced beautiful imagery and flow. I was going to mark favorites or choose stunning lines, but it was impossible. I liked all of them. This is a shorter review than normal because I offer my praise to all my fellow poets in this anthology. It was an honor to be included with them. If you love poetry and nature, this is a collection you do not want to miss!

The Moonshine Murders: The Jailer’s Daughter Mysteries

By Joy York

Christi and Lily have joined forces again to solve a murder and mystery focused on Lily’s father, who suffered a gunshot wound. They get help from Troy and Jake as the pursuit leads to moonshine and a mysterious university study. I love the setting in the seventies, along with the musical references. It brought back many memories and added great layers to the story. The friendship between Christi and Lily is heartwarming and humorous. They have each other’s backs no matter what mess they or Lily are in. A sweet romance develops for Christi and Jake, while Lily and Troy appear to clash. There are many twists and dangerous situations they find themselves in that make this a page-turner. Who to trust becomes very important. A YA mystery for the young at heart that I can easily recommend.

Savage Mayhem (The Mayhem Series Book 9)

By Sue Coletta

“Savage Mayhem” tidies up the Alaska story in an exciting beginning, but soon it’s time for Mayhem and Shawnee to go to their next mission, Yellowstone. I was excited about the setting because Yellowstone is on the top of my list of places I want to visit. The vivid descriptions made me feel like I was there with them. Although even in this place of beauty, the Killzme hunt continues. This time the target is the buffalo—Shawnee and Mayhem. There is the history and importance of the buffalo weaved into the story, and feelings that need to be dealt with. Poe and Shawnee’s relationship is still strained, but she protects the bird even with the animosity between them. It’s always fun to see Mayhem and Shawnee playing husband and wife. This time they are planning their fake wedding at the lodge to provide themselves a cover while trying to stop their enemy. The past comes into play though and needs to be dealt with as they try to save the buffalo herd, themselves, and their working relationship. I have been rooting for Shawnee and Mayhem to take the next step, along with a pair of birds who have found each other, too. This is a story of growth, bravery, insight, and brutal justice. I fall in love with the characters more with each book. I look forward to the next journey and can highly recommend this book and series.

Embrace your inner child by opening the pages into amazing worlds! D. L. Finn

April Book Reviews! @bakeandwrite @JacqBiggar @JanSikes3 @TerryTyler4 @MaeClair1 #writingcommunity #readingcommunity #whattoread #mustreads

Here are the books I read in March that were four stars and higher. Click on the book titles for an Amazon universal link.

keeping place book cover Infected book cover by Terri Tyler

Square Peg in a Round Hole: Poetry, Art & Creativity by Robbie Cheadle

By Robbie Cheadle, Michael Cheadle

“Square Peg in a Round Hole” is not only a heartfelt collection of poetry, but offers amazing paintings, drawings, photos, and fondant creations. I read this as a fellow nature lover, someone concerned about our planet, and a mother. Seeing the majestic animals through the words and images was breathtaking, but it broke my heart to think of how they were abused for trophy hunting. I could relate to so much of the ‘feeling different’ and the ability to get past that feeling through the arts. Ms. Cheadle’s introduction to her world made me feel the pain but also the strength that shined brightly through. At the end was poetry from her son, Michael, who expressed his perspective so powerfully and eloquently. I marked many passages to share and couldn’t decide which would highlight the enormous reach of all the parts of this book. This is one to be read more than once, and I can highly recommend it.

Finding Me: An Estranged Sisters New Adult Romance Novel (The Defiant Sisters Duet Book 2)

by Jacquie Biggar

“Finding Me” continues the story of Izzy, Renee, and Benjamin. Their father killed himself in the backyard years before and Renee left. Izzy stepped up and helped her mother and brother, putting all her dreams and youth on hold. When the mother passes, Renee finally comes home but not to a warm welcome. Both sisters continue to grow and learn, and it is easy to follow along through both of their perspectives. Renee finally sets her roots down at home but still has a long way to go with her relationship with her sister and boyfriend, Simon, while Izzy hangs on to her anger and grief, pushing everyone away. There is a brokenness that needs to be fixed on many levels, but also a dash of hope that is weaved so skillfully into this family story. I appreciated how Jay’s story slowly unfolded through his point of view. He quickly became a favorite character to root for, along with the sisters. There are some tough mental health topics covered, including suicide and self-harming, but it also shows how love can bring people together in unexpected ways. This was a book that was impossible to put down and I read it in one sitting. I’d love to see more from this family, especially the little brother, Benjamin. I highly recommend this.

A Beggar’s Bargain

By Jan Sikes

Layken returns from fighting in World War ll and finds that his family’s farm is about to be foreclosed. After the bank turns down his loan extension request, Layken is presented with another option – to marry the unwanted and badly treated daughter of the bank man to get two years to catch up on the loan. At first, Layken refuses but then sees that he has no choice if he is to honor his parents and family that has lived on the land. A quick wedding leaves two strangers living together. This beautifully written story offers hope and second chances in grim situations. What shines through is the friendships that are developed and honored, especially between Sara Beth and Layken. I had a soft spot for Sara Beth’s bunny and the person who borrowed food from them. In the middle of selfishness, greed, and cruelty, we are reminded of the goodness in people too, including when neighbors show up to lend a helping hand. When things seem hopeless, there is always a small glimmer of light. The setting on the farm is lush. I could picture living there and smell that blackberry pie cooking. The story skillfully incorporated tarot card reading and music in a natural way that I love. I am eager to continue the story of the inhabitants of this small farm. I highly recommend this heartwarming story!

Infected: SFV-1 Series – BOOK ONE

By Terry Tyler

What starts as a wonderful family vacation and disconnect from the world, hits a rough patch when Lion’s wife heads back home. Still, the rest stay behind. Envigored, Lion leaves with his mother-in-law only to find that when they have been out of contact, everything has changed in the worst possible way. The story is set in the UK and is told by several POVs, including Cat, who isolates herself on an island for a year to win money on a reality show, and Norah, who tries to hide in her world of art. I am a fan of end-of-the-world scenarios, and this story had a “Walking Dead” flavor that I could appreciate. Survival has become more important than the internet and instant information everyone has grown used to. Exciting reading is created by learning how to avoid the virus-stricken people who only have the desire to eat, find food and safe shelter, and watch out for any uninfected person who intends to harm you. Plus, while these people try to find their loved ones and a bit of security, another point of view shows how and where this virus originated and spread. The story leaves readers hanging by introducing a new character and a hint of things to come. I was rooting for the characters, Lion and Norah quickly became my favorites. I will continue this apocalyptic journey with book two and can easily recommend this book.

The Keeping Place

By Mae Clair

Nicole lived ten years with the guilt of her younger sister’s suspected drowning under her care. She leaves town and everything she loves to start a new life until that day she gets a note that her sister Janie’s body has been found. This pushes Nicole back home to face all the people she left behind, including her mother, old boyfriend, and a killer. I love the growth of Nicole as she has to face her past and try to make some peace. Her determination to find her sister’s killer, along with the forgiveness that is given, had my heart. It’s the setting, though, that kept pulling me in deeper. The descriptions were incredibly vivid of the rat and mouse-infested shack Nicole crawled into. Not only did I want her to take a shower, but I wanted to as well. The story seamlessly presents two timelines and enables the reader to witness what happened to Janie. There is not only family drama, damaged relationships, and a ghost that may or may not be helping, but a mystery to be solved. I changed my mind more than once about who the killer was. A well-written mystery that was very hard to put down. I highly recommend this one!

NOTE: I have been quiet lately and have been focused on family, health, and editing. I won’t be back to my regular visits or blogs until April 24th.

The only exception is I am part of a blog tour for the release of “Poetry Treasures 4.” I’ll post the link of where I read one of my poems on April 8th over on “Writing to be Read.” I will also be hosting Patricia Furstenberg here on April 11th.

Embrace your inner child—read a good book! D. L. Finn

March Book Reviews! @maryjdressel @teagangeneviene @NAGrangerAuthor @LisetteBrodey @JillWeatherholt #writingcommunity #whattoread #mustread #bookreviews

Here are the books I read in February that were four stars and higher. Click on the book titles for an Amazon universal link.

Blue Snow in the Moonlight: A Holiday Romance

By Mary J. McCoy-Dressel

Cullen, a father of two, is at a local event when he spots the most beautiful woman, Elle, whose eyes pull him in. They seemed to connect from a distance until his sister hugged him and broke the spell. He and his family start back to the ranch during a huge snowstorm when his vehicle breaks down. Luckily, someone comes by and gives them a ride to his rental or where this woman is staying. Culleen conceals his identity as the owner and gets acquainted with the woman he’s attracted to. The problem is they both come from bitter relationships and divorces, neither is willing to dive into a relationship again. What was obvious to everyone around them wasn’t to Elle and Cullen. I loved Cullen and his bond with his children and sister. The setting was my favorite part of the story, a ranch in North Dakota during snowstorms. Not only was there matchmaking going on from unexpected people but doubt and distrust mixed into it. A romantic flirtation was front and center, but the rest was behind closed doors. If you love stories set on ranches, like I do, and a good snowstorm or two mixed in with an attraction that may or may not work out, this story is for you!

Atonement in Zugzwang: Book 1

By Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene

Pepper inherits a remodeled gas station from her uncle in Atonement. As soon as she arrives in Atonement, Pepper ends up in the middle of a mysterious chess game and her uncle’s body goes missing. I always love a visit to Atonement—you never know who you’ll meet there. Much of this story I read on Ms. Geneviene‘s blog, but it’s nice to read it all at once. I loved the relationship Pepper had with her friend Maudie and, of course, the special kitten captured my heart. It was great to see familiar faces return to this story, including the pigs and Ralda. An enjoyable read with unusual characters you can’t help but root for, well, most of them. I look forward to the next story to be released, so I can see what happens next.

The Rat In The Python: Book 2 Shopping and Food

By Alex Craigie

I enjoyed “Rat in the Python: Book 1” a lot and equally adored this next installment with Shopping and Food. One thing that brought back many memories was the stamps saved from shopping or, what I remember, blue-chip stamps. My mother collected stamps not only from shopping but unused ones from neighbors, friends, and family. She was determined to get a grandfather clock, and she did. I helped paste many books of stamps. This book brings back all those splendid memories and history along with them. I didn’t have to go through any rationing, so I found that part very interesting, but I enjoyed all the canned and frozen foods that followed. This is a wonderful read for those who grew up in these times and like a trip down memory lane, or for those who want to learn how it used to be. Well written and entertaining all around.

Death at the Asylum: Rhe Brewster Mystery Series, Book 5

By N.A. Granger

“Death at the Asylum” is the fifth in the Rhe Brewster Series, but the third one I’ve read. It can easily be read as a standalone story with the author’s character recaps in the beginning, which I’ve appreciated. Rhe and Sam are enjoying a nice day and the governor’s speech when a sniper shoots the governor. The couple jumped into action to save him. Now they need to find the sniper. But that isn’t all going on. Someone has gotten hold of Rhe’s personal information putting debts in her name along with crimes. If that wasn’t enough for her to deal with between being pregnant, working two jobs, and raising a son, there is a rapist loose and someone stealing drugs at the hospital, too. Not only was this a page-turner, but there were enough criminal details woven in to add that extra layer. It is the relationships, though, that are the strength of the story, between husband and wife, mother and son, best friends and colleagues. I not only wanted the crimes to get solved, but the people to remain safe while doing it. A well-written cozy mystery that I can highly recommend. I can’t wait for the next book to see what happens next.

Death in a Mudflat (Rhe Brewster #4)

By N.A. Granger

Although this is the fourth book in the series, it is the second one I’ve read since I started in the middle, and very easy to follow. I do plan to go back and see how it all got started, but for now, I’m enjoying moving forward in this cozy mystery series. Rhe is not only a widowed mother and an ER nurse but a detective, too. She is now together with the man who was her brother-in-law and who is her boss at the police station, too. This couple was at a wedding on the beach when a body was found. Rhe embarks on a hunt to not only find this woman’s killer but also to uncover the truth behind college students dying from drug overdoses. This puts her in the middle of two investigations, one where the FBI is involved. I love how determined Rhe is to find the truth, even at her own expense. Her new relationship with Sam is endearing and the loyalty of her best friend is impressive. This is a page-turner as Rhe pushes forward and gets into unsafe situations. At one point, she learns what it is like to be on the other side of that or the one worrying. There is a lot of detailed information that adds a great layer to a well-written whodunit that I can easily recommend.

TWICE A BROKEN BREATH

By Lisette Brodey

Liam stops at the bank only to find out all his money is gone, and accounts are closed. In a panic, he rushes home to find his wife had left him for her first love and taken their daughter with them. There is a note explaining they are leaving the country within twenty-four hours with a powerful threat he’d never see his daughter again if he followed her or called the authorities. Knowing time is of the essence, he goes where he thinks his wife and child will be in New York. He hops on a train in this fast-paced chase that doesn’t slow down until almost the very end. Liam is a multi-layered character who not only has forgotten the first fourteen years of his life because of an accident, but his wife has deceived him, and he now only has a limited time to find the daughter he cherishes. It’s a heavy load, but he finds help in unexpected places along the way, along with people who don’t want him looking. There were many unexpected twists, a couple I had a hunch about, but it all added to Liam’s confusion and determination. I finally got to catch my breath close to the end as it all came together. An exciting page-turner for those who like a thriller with heart and one I can easily recommend.

Their Inseparable Bond

By Jill Weatherholt

Olivia, a divorced ER doctor from Miami, comes to small-town Bluebell, CO to bring her grandmother, Myrna, to live with her. The problem is that even with her deteriorating eyesight, Myrna doesn’t want to leave her home and friends. Olivia meets Myrna’s friends, including the widower Jake and his twins, Kyle and Kayla. Jake trains service dogs and has a puppy Callie, who he thinks would be a good fit for family friend Myrna, to help her stay home. Olivia must decide if the untrained pup could be an option, or if she should stick to the plan and insist her grandmother leave. In the mix is Olivia’s developing friendship with Jake and his children and a bit of matchmaking. I love not only the budding possible romance between Olivia and Jake but also the relationship that develops between Olivia and the children and Callie. A heartwarming Christian story that shows how faith mixed with forgiveness can offer a glimpse of that second chance. A quick uplifting read that I can easily recommend.

Embrace your inner child, read a good book! D. L. Finn

February Book Reviews! @JoyYorkAuthor @gmplano @SueColetta1 @Sandra_Cox #bookreviews #mustreads #writingcommunity #whattoread

Here are the books I read and reviewed in January that got four stars and up:

Tracking Mayhem (The Mayhem Series #7)

By Sue Coletta

Although I have read the Mayhem Series out of order and enjoyed the journey, I’m glad to be caught up and fully understand Shawnee’s growth and change. Throughout the journey, I have gained an education about not just Native American culture and history, but also about wildlife and our connection to it. Here, Shawnee, Mr. Mayhem, and Jacy Lee head to Alaska to save the polar bears. I knew little about polar bears other than they appear white and their territory is shrinking, so all the extra details fascinated me. Set in Alaska, a place that has always called me, only made the story more intriguing. Shawnee is still in training under Mr. Mayhem in his cabin with her grandfather and the crows. The crows always add humor, especially Poe. Their personalities as just as strong as their human counterparts. There are always surprise twists that make this a page-turner, as Mr. Mayhem and Shawnee run toward the danger instead of away from it. When they pretend to be man and wife to gather information, it can lead to some humorous moments. The corporation that makes a living from illegal animal trafficking and hunts is after Mr. Mayhem and Shawnee, too. Another great story where saving animals is not only the goal but a way of life. I can highly recommend “Tracking Mayhem.”

Unnatural Mayhem (The Mayhem Series #5)

By Sue Coletta

Shawnee has been staying with her grandfather and Mr. Mayhem. She is not only learning the ways of her grandfather, but the world. I love how Shawnee’s eyes are opened by not only her kind grandfather but someone who wanted to kill her in the past, Mr. Mayhem. While being taught the ways of her culture, Shawnee and Mr. Mayhem uncover that someone intends to disrupt their peace and nature. Skilled trophy hunters set their sights on crows, and this puts Poe and the others in danger. Mr. Mayhem and Shawnee team up to put a stop to this kill and find more than they bargained for. It’s fun seeing the world through Shawnee’s eyes as she navigates an expensive meal, moves dead bodies, or takes part in a ceremony. She is strong and open to a world most don’t experience while looking for her path. She has a job and boyfriend but is also drawn into helping save the animals and appreciates her grandfather’s wisdom as an elder and medicine man. Then there’s the relationship between her and Poe, and their intense dislike for each other that adds humor. I’ve read this series out of order and am glad to have all my questions answered. My favorite part has been Shawnee’s growth and when she embraces her culture, but it’s the crows and animals that hold my heart as they become more of a part of this series. This is a story I can easily recommend.

Protective Instinct

By Joy York

Morgan is supposed to go on vacation with her best friend at the family lake house. Instead, Morgan’s friend cancels, and she discovers she will stay in the caretaker’s cabin since the house has been rented out. When Morgan has issues, she seeks help from the guest in the house. Bash has been whisked away to escape a request by an unsavory character. He isn’t happy to find someone else is sharing his space but reluctantly agrees to help her. At first, I thought this was going to be a couple stuck together in a house who don’t get along but end up falling in love. It doesn’t take long before trouble knocks and they find themselves on the run. What they soon find out is there may be more trouble following them than expected. I love the strength of Morgan and Bash finally grew on me as his character progressed. Soon, I was not only rooting for them to survive but also giving into their affections. There were a couple of unexpected twists, which I always appreciate, especially at the end. Morgan had some surprising skills, and the things she could drive enamored me. Bonded together in survival mode, both of their pasts come into play. An exciting page-turner that captured my attention from the first escape. I can easily recommend “Protective Instinct.”

The Soul Whisperer’s Decision

By Gwen M. Plano

Sarah has it all. A happy marriage, a job she loves, and two beautiful children. While she is basking in her good blessings, the unthinkable happens: a drunk driver strikes her car. Everything changes at that moment when her two children die, and she fights for her life. While in a coma for two weeks, her husband struggles with his mental health and desire to live thinking his wife is going to be taken away too. His PTSD blends his past war experiences with his current grief. It is heartbreaking. I felt for this family whose happiness was ripped away by another’s actions. Having experienced an afterlife moment as a teen, I was looking forward to reading this family’s story. I wasn’t disappointed. Ms. Plano handled the afterlife skillfully and compassionately. She showed the reader the peace I remember vividly to this day. To lose so much yet come out stronger is a testament to what faith and love offer. This story is a beautiful tribute to that and the peace our loved ones experience once they leave us. A fast read I couldn’t put down as it travels through dark times and climbs back into the light. I can easily recommend this faith-based story that reminds us there is more than we can see.

Silent Mayhem (The Mayhem Series #3)

By Sue Coletta

Already a fan of The Mayhem Series, I’m now going back and reading the books I’ve missed. Silent Mayhem took everything up a huge notch. Shawnee receives a feather and a warning that her life is in danger. The problem she now faces is whether she can trust a serial killer who had wanted her dead in the past. Mixed into this is Native American history and lore that added a new level to an already exciting story unfolding. I love Shawnee’s strength and how she steps up for those she loves. But I think it is the tender relationship between Mr. Mayhem and his wife that makes him different from most serial killers. This tugs at my heart, even with his cruel side. There are crows too who seem to have it in for Shawnee, especially Poe. It’s Skinwalkers that might be the biggest danger to Shawnee in the middle of serial killers, a hidden past and scattered decapitated bodies. Although the ending offered some insight, Shawnee wasn’t safe yet. I immediately started reading book four. A book and series I can easily recommend.

I Am Mayhem (The Mayhem Series #4)

By Sue Coletta

I have read this Mayhem Series out of order and started it more toward the end or middle. I had no problem understanding and being drawn into Shawnee’s world, but I wanted to go back and see how it all started. This book is the one I have been eagerly anticipating, and it lived up to my expectations. Shawnee is now being hunted by Mr. Mayhem and everyone she loves is a target. I was on the edge of my seat as she tried to defend herself and make sense of a confused situation. Trying to stay alive is only part of this story, as Shawnee learns more about herself, too. Even knowing what has already happened, events continually surprised me. There was no way I could predict how this would all play out. The story also introduces a favorite character who captivates me. Mixed into the thrilling layers are crows with grudges, a serial killer, a Skinwalker, a worried boyfriend, a missing best friend, and the truth about Shawnee’s family. A definite page-turner that I can highly recommend.

Sheriff Tyree (2^nd in Keeper Series)

By Sandra Cox

I loved the first book “Keeper Tyree” and was eager to continue his journey. Keeper Tyree was a respected bounty hunter, but after he fell in love, he settled down and became sheriff of El Dorado. All was going well for his wife, daughter, and life. Unfortunately, someone from his past wanted justice and it involved his family. Keeper has become a favorite character of mine. He is tough, respected, and loves his family and friends deeply. His wife matches his strength and love of family, which I admire. They are an amazing couple that is put to the test in this story. I adore not only the town and its people but how well Ms. Cox brings the western setting to life. It makes me care about these wonderful characters as I try to imagine how it would have been to have lived with them. A young girl, Allie, and a small cat, Shivers, captured my heart, and a bit of light always shines when evil mixes into their world. It’s the little things that become important, like crossing a river or finding shelter in a storm, but the driving reason behind everything is love. That is unexpected for such a strong character as the sheriff. I hope there are more stories to come, and I highly recommend this book!

Embrace your inner child and read a book! D. L. Finn