Happy First Monday of February! We have had unseasonably warm temperatures here the past few days, even getting into the mid-seventies. I’m sure this is a brief reprieve. Winter isn’t over yet by a long shot. I’m combining my regular Monday post with my January Book Reviews. Therefore, this post is a bit longer than I normally have so bear with me.
Not too much to report from the past week other than some of the grandchildren have been sick. There is a lot going around. Several schools in the smaller outlying towns have closed temporarily due to the large number of students and staff out sick. I’m hoping this moves on and quickly!
Continuing to make progress on my current WIP, “A Bold Bargain.” Thought I’d share a very short excerpt with you here today.
He was deep in the woods when he heard a faint whimper. He stilled and called out again. Following the pup’s now frenzied yelps, he rounded an ancient black walnut tree to find a tiny white dog with her leg caught in a steel trap.
“There, there.” He knelt beside the coon trap, examining the crudely made mechanism. Blood pooled beneath the trapped leg.
The little dog whined, then threw back her tiny head and let out a howl of agony.
“I know. I’m sorry. Just be still and I’ll get you out.” Anger arose at the thought of poachers leaving traps on private property. At least he assumed Mrs. Fletcher owned the land. Either way, it was cruel.
Thankfully, the little dog was okay and recovered completely, but trapping was dangerous for all animals. A man in Missouri has been most helpful with giving me detailed information about homemade traps and the types of animals someone may have been hunting.
Now on to my January Book Reviews.
MY REVIEW:
There is magic and then there is ‘magick.’ And yes the two are different and you can find out what I mean by reading this book.
It checked all the boxes for me from the supernatural, to a small town setting, a couple of murders, a mysterious ghost, wonderfully developed characters and a budding romance.
Charlotte Knight has been commissioned to sketch images to accompany a book of poetry from Rilke, a poet who has long been dead. But immediate controversy comes into play when her employer, Jaa, hates everything she draws. Jaa’s dead sister, Heida had been heading up the project. That is until she is found dead from unknown causes. Foul play is suspected.
Jaa claims to have wind magick and lives in an actual windmill. Family secrets are revealed throughout the story.
A local restaurant owner, Marc is a surprising character as his own experience with magick comes to light, explaining the wolf head necklace he wears all the time.
Then another death occurs and this one is definitely a murder.
Charlotte’s life is in danger. She is attacked by owls, leaving her bruised and wounded. She is subjected to Heida’s wrath and hatred.
I loved all the characters, but Charlotte and Marc are my two favorite and especially as they explore their budding romance. If you love all things supernatural with a large dose of mystery thrown in, you will love this story as much as I did. This author must have done a ton of research and it shows in the story. Well done!!
MY REVIEW:
This short story is heartwarming and brave!
Mary has always known she was adopted, but it wasn’t until her adoptive parents were killed in a car wreck did she find out more. She had to wait an entire year, until she turned 18, before the information she craved would be provided.
But once it was, she got on the next plane for Miami to seek out her birth parents.
I don’t want to spoil the story about the outcome of that visit, but I will tell you this is a well-written story that you can easily read in one sitting.
The author did a great job!
MY REVIEW:
This story kept me on my toes! It is not a typical suspense story and I loved that about it.
Lexi Graham is the main character and she has finally escaped from the nightmare of her father, or at least she thinks she has. She changed her name and entire persona multiple times and now she’s landed in Galveston, Texas, starting over yet again.
She learned from the best how to stay alert, scan the area for threats, assess her surroundings and react (SAR). That’s what her kingpin father taught her.
But she wants nothing to do with that life in any way.
When she meets, Jack, a lawman, there is an immediate attraction. But things turn sideways quickly for Lexi when she is fired from a job she loves and suddenly offered a new job at a shipping company with an astronomical salary. She is to be the personal assistant to the company’s CEO. While all sorts of red flags pop up, she is happy to be earning money while doing only grunt work such as running errands.
Then in the midst of that story thread, the view switches to a disgusting man obsessed with women who are nursing babies. He breaks into their houses in the middle of the night and takes pleasure in forcing them to nurse while he watches.
I wondered how the author was going to bring the different story threads together, but she did in spades! Yet, it was the surprise twist at the end that left me in shock. If you are looking for a story you can’t predict, full of suspense and action, this is the book for you. While there is an attraction between Lexi and Jack, the story is NOT a romance. A well-written story with non-stop action that held my attention.
MY REVIEW:
The roaring 1920s is the perfect setting for this entertaining story. I loved how the author put the reader into the story with the characters.
Daphne Moultrie is a talented medium. She holds seances to communicate with the deceased. She lives in a Victorian mansion in Coral Gables, Florida. The way the author describes it, I could see every detail.
Daphne is engaged to a supposed Cuban Count. But at the story unfolds, the reader begins to see that the count, while he does appear to genuinely care for Daphne, seems to care more about what marriage to her could do for him.
The other characters in the story are Maisy, the faithful and loyal housekeeper, her son, Albert, a journalist, Phineas and a young woman just finishing up secretarial school, Clover. We find that Clover comes from an abusive family situation and wants nothing more than to make her own way in the world. So, when Daphne offers her a job as her personal assistant, it seems Clover’s dreams can come true. Then there is the horrible woman, Mrs. Smith, who will do anything to have contact with her deceased child, even if it means taking lives. There are so many different nuances to this story. From the automobiles, a pink trolley car, the time period, the dress styles and the characters, I was engrossed in the story from the first page to the last. If you have a penchant for a historical adventure into the world of Spiritualism and Mediumship, you are going to love this story!
MY REVIEW:
I put off reading this collection of poetry knowing it would trigger some of my own grief from losing my husband almost sixteen years ago.
But I was wrong. I found healing in the poems, even the poems that express the hopelessness of ever healing.
I love the way the author put these together. Reading them is almost like riding a wave…a wave of grief and the many forms it takes.
The poems are expressive, honest and heartbreaking.
Here is one example:
Loss and love are weird pals
One caresses the other
Both wallow in self-pity
Both know the ache of separation
Those words hit me in the heart center. It’s true that grief is a selfish act. We grieve for ourselves and for all we’ve lost. As this author portrays in her poem, “The Mourning,” I remember the deafening silence that surrounded me after everyone had left to return to their normal lives while I traversed getting through each day.
But as I rode the wave of this author’s grief, I found hope in her poem, “We’ll Meet Again.”
I know we’ll meet again in another life
We may not recognize each other
But I know you’ll figure out —It’s me
As you know me so well
That poem expresses everything I’ve felt as well. How frustrating that we have to go through the whole process of finding each other again with no memory of the previous lives we’ve lived.
The author takes through the seasons, birthdays, and holidays as she struggles to live through them alone. I relate.
If you are a fan of beautifully written poetry, or if you are also in the throes of grieving for a loved one, you will find commonalities in these poems.
MY REVIEW:
This book is a perfect mix of history, Asian cultures, human psychology, corruption, greed, and paranormal. I loved it. I was drawn in from the beginning of the prologue to the final page of the story.
The story is well-written, descriptive and progresses at an even pace throughout. The author’s military expertise shines through in this work.
John Michaels was one of the many MIA’s or KIA’s during the Vietnam war. But did he really die? Is a Hmong Shaman powerful enough to weave his soul back together with the help of dragon medicine? Well, you’ll have to read the book to find the answer to that.
The story opens with a literal bang with an assassination attempt on Special Agent Teri Altro. She’s a part of an elite team created to put an end to the drug trafficking and overdose deaths on the University campus. What Ms. Altro witnesses during those few minutes of the attempt on her life changes her forever. Can she trust what her eyes tell her?
John Michaels is known as The Valley Walker. His entire purpose in life is to eliminate evil and empower people to take their lives back from those who manipulate and use them. He has a big heart and a singular mindset. Evil is not allowed to continue to flourish. The corruption bleeds over into government (that’s believable for sure), and greed overpowers morals.
This excerpt from the book says it all:
“They used me, Andy. In the war. They used us all.”
“They?”
“Powerful men. Men without honor. Men motivated only by profit and power. They will stop at nothing.”
I loved all the characters in this story. The author did a great job creating them and letting me “see” them. The scenes are set in a descriptive way that put me inside them. I cannot recommend this book highly enough!
I hope you see something new you can’t live without. 🙂 Always happy to help your toppling TBR stack grow.
I’ll leave you with this bit of inspiration for the week.
And last but not least, a Tarot Card for our weekly guidance.
The Nine of Cups asks us to relax and enjoy what we’ve worked so hard to achieve. We drive ourselves from one project to another and often don’t take the time to fully appreciate what we’ve completed. But taking a moment to experience satisfaction in our work opens the door to more creativity and abundance. Whatever you’ve accomplished, take a moment this week to enjoy the feeling of contentment for a job well done.
And that’s a wrap. Have a great week ahead!
Hi Jan, thanks for these lovely reviews. I also enjoyed both Teagan’s and Tim’s entertaining books. I have Balroop’s and Yvette’s on my TBR.
Thank you for adding your recommendations, Robbie. I appreciate you stopping by!
Horsefeathers! That sounds like a really nasty flu bug. I hope everyone gets well soon – and that you stay well.
The snippet is very dramatic.
Thanks for posting your book reviews. What a wonderful surprise to see A Peril in Ectoplasm in them! I’m glad that you liked it, Jan. Congrats to everyone here. I see a lot of intriguing stories that I want to read. Hugs.
Definitely a nasty flu bug, Teagan. I’m happy to report that as of today, they are all back in school. I enjoyed your story so much and have the second one on my Kindle. Glad you see some books that intrigue you! Thanks for visiting.
Loved Teagan’s book (and looking forward to her newest), and have some of these waiting. Excited to read your excerpt, Jan, even though it hurt my heart. I hate to think about animals in pain, but I’m hoping this little guy has a happy ending.
Awww, sorry it hurt to read the excerpt, but I promise it turned out okay. 🙂 I can’t stand to see an animal in pain and traps are so cruel. Thanks for adding your recommendation for Teagan’s book. I have the second one on my Kindle waiting. Thanks so much for stopping by!
Many thanks, Teri. I appreciate you supporting the series. Hugs.
You’ve had a great time reading, Jan. I’ve read a bunch of these and there are a couple that I’m inclined to pick up based on your reviews. Sorry to hear about the sick grandies, and I hope they’re all back to school soon. Even with everything going on, it sounds like you’ve found time to write. That’s wonderful news. Congrats to all the authors on the marvelous reviews.
Thank you for stopping by, Diana. I found your comment in Spam. Ugh! Yes, the grand are all back in school this week and so far, so good. I am writing and happy to have found the time. I like the way the story is unfolding. 🙂 I’m happy you enjoyed the reviews. All of these books were definitely well worth reading.
🙂
Thank you so much for reviewing ‘Just one Goodbye,’ Jan. I know it is difficult to read dark poetry especially if you’ve experienced similar emotions but I must thank you once again for focusing on the streaks of light that peep through the shards of my heart.
I enjoyed reading your reviews – all the books are new to me but they sound interesting. Thanks for sharing.
I am subscribing to your site, it seems you’ve left WordPress and so we got out of touch.
I was happy to read your beautiful poetry, Balroop. It resonated with me for sure. Thank you for subscribing. I didn’t leave WordPress, just incorporated my blog into my website.
I agree with John about your work in progress. I love dog stories, and you snagged my heart from the beginning. You do a great job with book reviews. Murder mysteries always intrigue me. Balroop’s book of poetry sounds beautiful and oh so heartfelt.
Thanks so much, Marsha. I’m glad you enjoyed that short excerpt from my new novel. This story has three dogs and a baby bobcat in it so far. 🙂 I’m happy you stopped by and that you enjoyed the reviews.
A baby bobcat sounds so cute. We have had bobcats in our area in both Prescott, AZ and in CA. I haven’t come in contact with a baby one, though. 🙂 xxx
Sounds like you’ve been very busy.
I seem to stay that way, Craig. Thanks for visiting!
You’ve intrigued me with your reads Jan. And your review for Balroop’s book was especially touching. <3
Thank you, Debby. I’m happy you stopped by. Yes, Balroop’s book of poetry is very touching.
<3
Your WIP sounds great, Jan. Your reviews are terrific too. Congratulations to Paula,Yvette, Becki. Teagan, Balroop and Tim.
Thank you, John!
😊
Some juicy new choices. About the time I get my Kindle under 300 books I have yet to read, I add a few more. Oh well, if this is my biggest problem. . .
Lol, Pete. Yep, I have the same problem. So many good books, so little time. 🙂 Thank you for visiting!
Great post, Jan! Sorry the grands are sick. Going through here too. My hubby was sick for two weeks with the flu. Rest of family got the noro virus. Not sure how I avoided that…I have read many of your reviewed books and agree with your insights. All good ones. Your excerpt tore at my heart. I hate traps! Good card for the week. Xo
I am so sorry to hear your family has been dealing with this sickness wave, too, Denise. Praying everyone recovers quickly and completely! Thank you for stopping by and I’m glad you enjoyed the reviews and excerpt. I agree, traps are horrible! I hope you have a great week ahead!
Sister, I really love A Bold Bargain. It’s a great story with lots of great moments. Good reading too. I can stand some relaxing. Have a lovely day.
Thank you, sister. I’m happy you stopped by!
Thank you, Jan, for posting your review today of Draakensky. The excerpt for A Bold Bargain reaches deep; I was so moved. Animal cruelty makes me shudder. I’m reading Book 1 now!
It is truly my pleasure, Paula. I’m glad you enjoyed the excerpt and I agree about animal cruelty. Even though the little dog got into the trap by accident, it’s a horrible way to trap animals. I’m honored that you are reading book 1! I hope you are enjoying it.
I haven’t read these, but they sound good! Thank you for your recommendations!
So glad you enjoyed the reviews, Kymber! Thanks for stopping in.
Your excerpt from “A Bold Bargain” is fantastic, Jan! Thanks so much for your wonderful review of “The Valley Walker.” I’ll have to share that on my blog.
I’m glad you liked the excerpt, Tim. And it was my pleasure to read and review “The Valley Walker.” Thank you for sharing!
😍
I’ve only read one of these books (A Peril in Ectoplasm, really enjoyed it!), but they all sound great. Thanks for sharing your reviews, Jan!
I really enjoyed that story, too, Priscilla. I’m glad you enjoyed the reviews. Thanks for visiting!
Thanks for your support, Priscilla — and for your fabulous review. I hope your February is off to a great start. Hugs.
You read some awesome books! Balroop is such a great poet and expresses herself so well in the words she chooses. I love the excerpt from your next book. Any book with a dog in it, I love. I hope the grandkids feel better soon. Have a super week. ❤️❤️
Thank you for stopping by Darlene. I totally agree about Balroop. She pulls from deep inside and puts it in words that flow like water. I’m glad you enjoyed the excerpt. This book has three dogs and a baby bobcat in it so far. 🙂 An animal menagerie of sorts. Have a great week!
Wonderful post and great reviews, Jan! Thank you for including my short story in your reviews. I truly appreciate it. I’m so happy the dog was rescued. I hate those traps. And I love the card you pulled. I actually spend some time reflecting on my poetry last month. It’s been a while since I’ve blogged like that. I’m hoping to keep it going.
Yvette M Calleiro 🙂
http://yvettemcalleiro.blogspot.com
You are most welcome, Yvette. And I have to tell you I have really been enjoying your poems. It feels like you are reaching deeper and it shows. Thank you for stopping by!
Thanks, Jan! I’m enjoying writing poetry again. 🙂