Review of IF SHE KNEW

IF SHE KNEW

BLAKE PIECE

Review by Author Roy Murry

I love a mystery, and this is a good one. Kate Wise solves the ones no one at the FBI can, but she is retired at fifty-five.

But she has antsy pants and wants to get back into the action when a friend is murdered. The family asks her to investigate, but her hands are tied because she has no official standing.

Then another event happens with her FBI supervisor giving her credentials to act as a temp-agent. With a new young partner, the action begins, but all roads lead to a dead-end.

Agent Wise does what she does well - think through all the events and never gives up even when she is taken off the case, and the police have their killer. Her efforts lead to an exciting ending that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2F6XdA8

Check Kindle price $.00 and buy book 2 for $3.99

Review of BITTERSWEET MEMORIES

BITTERSWEET MEMORIES

ERIKA M SZABO

Reviewed by Author Roy Murry

Short, romantic, and emotional. A child, Elana Smith, given the name in a hospital, grows up in the social service system of foster families after being abandoned.

That unfortunate situation leads to others until she joins a boy in foster home care. More psychological pressure enters her mind at the age of thirteen.

However, loving people on her life's journey help her adjust into a beautiful, intelligent woman. Then, at a traditional memory place, another trauma takes place.

When this happens, the reader will have a hard time stopping the tears.

The story is a small ninety-minute rollercoaster ride that will keep you pinned to your Kindle.

Purchase:  https://amzn.to/37moKcK

Review of Bound

BOUND

Book One in the

Witches of Doyle

Trilogy

KIRSTEN WEISS

Review by Author Roy Murry

Fairies were even less believable than vampires...Karin, the witch narrator of this Cozy Mystery series, mused.  I guess if you believe in fairies and vampires, you believe in witches.

There is a murder in one of the sister's coffeeshop that starts a whirl-wind of a mystery, both about three sister witches and a couple of other events. Karin, the logical witch, tries to unravel the illogical to save her sister from jail.

On the road to understanding the mystery, love, and death approaches when a vital clue comes to light. A spell is a crucial solution if it doesn't backfire on Karin. 

There are highs and lows to this exciting story of how three witches overcome generations of curses. If you believe in witches, you'll enjoy this adventure into fantasy.

It was a fun read, both genres I love to read - witches and a mystery rolled into one. Have some fun; spells are included.

Purchase Bound https://amzn.to/34LYhUk

Review of UNFREEDOM OF THE PRESS

UNFREEDOM OF THE PRESS

MARK R. LEVIN

Review by Roy Murry, Author

I have paraphrased Matthew Pressman on a history of reporting, Chapter 1: Workaday reporters (Should) had to stick to the four W's and one H; who, what, when, where, and how.  The 'why' question (Should be) was beyond their purview. I put in (Should) because I, like many non-party-aligned voting Americans, feel that way.

In our world today, this is not the modus operandi of our Main Stream Media, according to what I have taken from Mr. Levin's expose of the current reporting the news. Too many progressive ideas are embedded in news content these days.

He goes into detail as to how media treats President Donald J. Trump vs. recent past presidents, giving the pros and cons of those endeavors. Also presented in the pages of his book are some ways in which other presidents used and abused the press, leaving the reader with the thought that President Trump has not abused his power against the media.

Mr. Levin's intelligent read was sometimes above my comprehension, but educating me as I followed along. His explanations are one of the reasons I recommend UNFREEDOM OF THE PRESS to you, a free-thinking human, and particularly college students of journalism for the insight into that profession.

Purchase:  Unfreedom https://amzn.to/2ShS543

Review of STUPID WARS

STUPID WARS:

A Citizen's Guide to Botched Putsches, Failed Coups, Inane

Invasions, and Ridiculous Revolutions

Ed Strosser and Michael Prince

Review by Roy Murry, Author

The title tells it all. I will add that humans do not understand history, or they would not continue to make the same mistake over and over again.  However, some humans, no, many humans, are just stupid and or vicious.

Mr. Strosser and Prince give a precise historical evaluation of wars that should not have happened, and others that leaders should have thought out before going ahead. Some conflicts are diabolically stupid.

I will not explain each nutty endeavor. I will say: I laughed and cried at the explanations the authors gave for humans murdered for ego, pride, and territory - confounding to an intelligent person.

The read is clear, to the point, and enjoyable. I will reread each chapter.

You should read it once to remind yourself that we are all human.

Purchase Stupid Wars https://amzn.to/2sRR5ZB

Review of THEN

CAROL MARRS PHIPPS

     & TOM PHIPPS

Review by Roy Murry, Author

I loved WHAM, the first book in this series. See my review of that http://bit.ly/2riA6it. In WHAM, two worlds collide, the Fairy's world versus the Elite controlling one. The contrast is brought alive in the Phipps' vivid and sometimes dark prose.

In THEN, the saga - Good vs. evil continues dramatically. Tess, a fairy, with trolls, wizards, and humans are trying to take back the ruling of the world from a despotic queen. The queen's powers have increased because of witchcraft tools.

Tess and her Underground friends proceed on their quest. And the queen goes about destroying their world and trying to find them.

It is a simple story, but the antics (Tess travels back in time), multicultural characters, and the fantasy backdrop (The world above and below) gives a whole new meaning to the word WOW.

What is real and what is not, is left to the reader's imagination.

After reading 'THEN,' your imagination will expand. That is the main reason I read books 1 and 2 of this series, which I never do - read a series. I may go on the read 3.

I recommend starting the series with WHAM. However, THEN, as a fantasy, stands on its own.

Purchase @ Amazon https://amzn.to/2MlXqDD

Review of WITH ALL DUE RESPECT

WITH ALL DUE RESPECT

Defending America with

         Grit and Grace

NIKKI R. HALEY

FORMER AMBASSADOR

Review by Roy Murry, Author

WITH ALL DUE RESPECT, if you don't read this novel, you will be missing a historical look into President Donald J. Trump's foreign policy by the former United States Ambassador to the United Nations. Her story is compelling, controversial, and believable, putting politics aside.

Ambassador Haley, an Indian woman, who was Governor of South Carolina, with no experience in world politics shines on the world stage where men have ruled for a millennium. It is her true grit and inner abilities that helped her navigate through the world political conflicts the USA has encountered for years. 

These struggles of ideas, in everyday language, she writes with contention, grace, and dignity professing America's morals to the world is the critical theme I took from this reading. This story will have you cheering and bewildered at the same time.

World views are different, but we must come to a common ground is the backbone of her philosophy. 'I agree' is the reason for placing it here. ,

You will have to read WITH ALL DUE RESPECT to understand why President Donald J. Trump picked Kikki Haley to be Ambassador. She has John Wayne's TRUE GRIT.  Youngsters and foreigners may have to Google it.

Purchase:   

WITH ALL DUE RESPECT https://amzn.to/2Qe31gn

Review of THE WAY I HEARD IT

THE WAY I HEAR IT

MIKE ROWE

Review by Roy Murry, Author

Mr. Rowe has put together short stories that will have you laughing, crying, and thinking at the same time. Interwoven are his semi-biographical anecdote of each tale that transcends your understanding into gratefulness having read them.

The pace is fast and exciting, so much so, the reader will want to stop and savor the moment after each section - remembering one's life incident that complete Mr. Rowe's narratives.

The book is chuck full of human relationships. Each distinctly enjoyable on its own.

Well done.

Purchase: THE WAY I HEARD IT https://amzn.to/372uqIG

Review of The Case of the Questionable Quadruplet

The Case of the Questionable Quadruplet

A Safe Harbor Medical Mystery

JACQUELINE DIAMOND

Review by Roy Murry, Author

I enjoy mysteries as this where the finger of guilt points to many characters. The reader's mind spins, trying to solve the murders.

I usually have a good idea by mid-book who did it. In Ms. Diamond's mystery, the reader will be surprised at the end.

The suspense was killing me. Was it one of the daughters, or their mates, or another character implied? Who did the deeds?

Dr. Darcy's family members are involved on the legal side of the equation, while he fills in the gaps of how things are moving in the crimes and why the quadruplet maybe the center of his inquiry.  His father's old files are critical to the events that follow the birth of triplets. Or where there four?

You will need to read this thrilling, well-written mystery to find out.

Purchase: QUARTRIPLETS https://amzn.to/2MlYeIF

Review of HOW TO MAKE A LIVING WITH YOUR WRITING

HOW TO MAKE A LIVING

WITH YOUR WRITING

Joanna Penn

Review by Roy Murry, Author

Ms. Penn has penned an interesting, somewhat informative book on how to make money writing books, blogging, and more.

As the writer of three novels and a poetry chapbook, I found some of Ms. Penn’s ideas worth trying, others not much so. She does not go into detail. 

In this short ‘How to’ book, she gives the novice writer hope and useful advice. If you are a first book writer, it is worth the read.

If not a beginner, save the $4.99 Kindle price to read it.

Purchase: WRITING https://amzn.to/373xzbA

Review of EXQUISITE JUSTICE

EXQUISITE JUSTICE

A Marc Kadella Legal Mystery

Dennis Carstens

Review by Roy Murry, Author

'EXQUISITE' is a multi-facet a novel that keeps the reader’s attention. The plot and characters were impressive; however, it would have been wiser of me to read the first book in the Marc Kadella series. I would have known the main characters better.

The plot kept me wanting to get to the end, knowing by the fifth chapter, Marc was going to get his man and solve his legal case. The twist and turns were evident to a mystery buff like me, but the ending surprised me.

I think I will read the first book in the series to get a better idea of the characters, especially Marc Kadella.

Purchase: JUSTICE https://amzn.to/2PNypmQ

Review of SECRET EMPIRES

SECRET EMPIRES

PETER SCHWEIZER

Review by Roy Murry, Author

SECRET EMPIRES are not secrets. They are highlighting the general public does not get to see on the front pages of newsprint or are mention on the mainstream media.

They are secrets insiders of Washington; D.C. has known for years. Mr. Schweizer gives the reader a snippet of generous backdoor handouts to powerful politicians’ friends and family members receive because of their connection to power. 

The influential people Mr. Schweizer names will open the reader's eyes to why there should be TERM LIMITS for members in the U.S. Congress. Closeness to the decision making of the President or a member of Congress over the years in office is the key to family members becoming multi-millionaires.

I will not name names here, but I assure you, you will know the people involved within Mr. Schweizer's investigative narratives. He doesn't play political bias games - He tells it like it is.

If you didn't know who makes money from Washington power, then read this book. This book confirmed my limited knowledge.

SECRET EMPIRES is a well-written read. 

Purchase: SECRET EMPIRES https://amzn.to/2ShNKO1

Review of LORA LEE

LORA LEE

CLIFF HOUSE SERIES, BOOK ONE

PJ WEBB

Review by Roy Murry, Author

I am not interested in ghosts per se, but this novel caught my eye and am glad I opened the book. Not believing in ghosts, the hairs on my arms spiked when reading this story about spirits haunting a house.

PJ WEBB's tale keeps the reading engaged weirdly.  I kept turning the page, waiting for the next encounter between LORA LEE and the house's mysterious ghostly inhabitants with two romance story backdrops.

The author has you believing the world of spirits are left on earth until a mission is complete or some event releases them to the other side - where ever that is? A believer of ghosts will be thrilled; a non-believer will laugh out loud. I laughed out loud.

The prose kept me wanting more of her ghostly adventures. I may just come back for more.

This novel is a good read for this Halloween season. Also, PJ WEBB's writing is enjoyable to the end hooking you into book two. If you are into ghosts, you will buy it with a click at the end of LORA LEE.

PURCHASE 

LORA LEE https://amzn.to/2ZgR7Xi

Review of His BANANA

His BANANA

PENELOPE BLOOM

Review by Roy Murry, Author

This novel is a cute and sexy entanglement between a clutz of a reporter and a perfectionist billionaire. The woman and man are put together because of an investigation - she on him.

At times, there are erotic scenes that wake up the reader from the unusual conflict of their dancing around the subject of attraction. When the truth comes out about her secret, the shit hits the fan to an unexpected culmination.

Some twists and turns, with a not so complicated conclusion, are predictable. Good writing helps the pages turn quickly - a quick and enjoyable romantic read leading into a series.

Purchase: HIS BANANA https://amzn.to/2Mlwhk1

Review of The Great Smoky Mountain Bank Job

THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAIN BANK JOB

& other Sam Jenkins Mysteries

WAYE ZURL

Review by Roy Murry, Author

Mr. Zurl is one author I go to for police action and the entanglements of a crime. He keeps me on my toes.

His novels and short stories are not part of a series per-say, but Sam and his team are the same. He is the only outsider transplanted from New York City to the South, giving some comic relief to the crime at hand.

What changes: are the crimes and those characters who convict them. Each offense that Sam Jenkins unravels baffles everyone around him and the reader - almost Sherlock Holmes.

If you haven't read one of Sam Jenkin's mysteries, this book is an excellent place to start. Then you will be hooked as I am and read a five-star novel by Wayne Zurl. I have read four.

Purchase:  GREAT SMOKY https://amzn.to/36Xp7uf

Review of HOW TO BE IDLE

HOW TO BE IDLE: A Loafer’s Manifesto

TOM HODGKINSON

Review by Roy Murry, Author

Sane is the way one would like to keep one's mind. Hodgkinson's delving into the human rationality of existence, hopefully, will lead the reader to a sounder and balanced life.

How we live, sleep, work, and go about the daily chore of surviving on planet earth can be controlled, according to his art of idling.  Many of the famous people who helped make this world a happier place to live are idlers.

Mr. Hodgkinson's (Idlers) philosophy goes against the businesses models that developed after the Industrial Revolution and the invention of the lightbulb. He gives the reader the pros and cons of idling. His view: The advantages out weight the negatives.

Tom's writing is insightful, funny, and convincing. I got an education and found out I am somewhat an idler.

I read this book twice and recommend it highly. I assure you, the reader will be impressed with the premise and may become an IDLER, as I will be for the rest of my life.

I am 73 years old as of this review, and idled in New Orleans for four full days – loved it.

Purchase: How to be Idle https://amzn.to/3B6Z7MI

 

Review of HAUNTED ON BOURBON STREET

Haunted on Bourbon Street

DEANNA CHASE

Review by Roy Murry, Author

This spooky novel is chuck full of characters who have unusual abilities. At times it was hard to know who trumps who in the final chapters.

However, the story flows excitingly in trying to eliminate a ghost when another spirit latches on to one main character who has no abilities.  Jade, the principle character, comes to her aid with a turn of events that puts the story into a tailspin. 

An event that leads into a ghostly ending, the reader will remember and will want to go on to see the next chapter in Jade's life as an empath, one who feels emotions. She has many witch abilities unknown to her, which develop in Book 2, I believe from the narrative.

As a non-believer in ghosts, I found this story fun to read. A believer will have a different take. Whichever you are, you will enjoy the fast-pace journey into Jade’s strange world on Bourbon Street, New Orleans, USA.

Purchase: 

HAUNTED https://amzn.to/34NufzE

Review of Witchnapped in Westerham

Witchnapped in Westerham

Paranormal Investigation 
        Bureau, Book 1

Dionne Lister

Review by Roy Murry, Author

What if you woke up one day and a woman came to your door and told you, "You are a witch?" Well, this is what happened to Lily on her twenty-fourth birthday in sunny Australia.

To top that off, her brother, who works for PBI, Paranormal Investigation Bureau, is in trouble.  Angelica, the person who knocks on Lily's door, is her mentor and leads her on an adventure to London and beyond.

Coffee is Lily's kryptonite.  At times, it gets her into trouble during her indoctrination into the life of a witch. Her powers develop as PIB conducts an investigation that will affect them and her family.

The twist and turns to the end will lead the reader through a fun-filled story. Which Witch will survive is helped by Lily's newfound abilities that no witch has had for decades?

The characters, the story, and PIB are creative, leaving the reader wanting more leading into the next book. Ms. Lister's writing hooks you into buying Book 2, 3, and more of this kind of a pleasant night’s reading diversion.

Well written Book 1.

Kindle WITCHES https://amzn.to/2Q8KD8B

Review of JUSTICE on TRIAL

JUSTICE on TRIAL

Mollie Hemingway

  Carrie Severino

Review by Roy Murry, Author

Qualified people may not care to become a member of the Supreme Court because of the way confirmation is run. Until reading Ms. Hemingway and Ms. Severino's history of the Kavanaugh nomination and hearings, which reads like a suspense novel, I had no idea of what transpired behind the scenes.

When the hearings were on TV and in the news, I didn't pay attention and had problems of my own to resolve.  So, Mr. Kavanaugh selection for the court was not one of my priorities, and I do not indulge in watching any news programs on cable.

I am sad to say this description of how the public and the Congress securitize a candidate, positively and negatively, is mind-boggling.  I consider myself intelligent, and I am wondering what happened to the people of the USA, especially the ones they continue to put in the Senate.

The twist and turns in this story is unbelievable.  What happens to people that want to serve as an Associate Justice is appalling - all for political reasons.

I agree with the authors, paraphrased: The process should be about qualifications, character, approach to judging and the role of the federal judiciary. Putting candidates through pretentious bullshit that some Senators spout is not the way to conduct oneself.

I commend the ladies for bringing to light their view of what happened to Mr. Kavanaugh. Many items to think about, and I will say again the prose read like a suspense novel.

So, friends, if you care to read a thrilling novel, purchase: JUSTICE ON TRIAL https://amzn.to/373zWLw

Review of Murder a la Carte

MURDER A LA CARTE

NANCY SKOPIN

Review by Roy Murry, Author

It is my second novel by Ms. Skopin. I will go back to read another Nikki Hunter Mystery because of Ms. Skopin's lead character and the way she solves a mystery.

Her stories are fast-paced and character-driven, which keeps the reader glued to the page. In this novel, a killer is murdering pedophiles and is closer to Nikki and her police detective lover than one would think.

Using friends, Nikki follows people she thinks the killer would like to eliminate. This effort leads to some exciting sub-plots, which do not distract from the main one.

In the end, the reader will want more, like me. I am a mystery nut.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/39m5IVU

Review of Ruse & Romance

RUSE & ROMANCE

The Beaucroft Girls, Book One

SUZANNE G. ROGERS

Review by Roy Murry, Author

Kitty and Juliet are the Beaucroft girls who live in England during the mid-1800s. I won't tell you who is the prettiest because it is part of the story, but I will say to you Kitty is the oldest, and during the times and in proper society, she should be the first to marry an eligible wealth titled bachelor.

The 'Season' has begun in London, and their wealthy parents are expecting one of the girls to woo a man of the Lordly class. Let the games begin, and they do.

A scandalous event between Kitty and a Lord presents a socially unacceptable result. To save Kitty's status, another Lord, and her parents contrive The Ruse, which leads into a Romance, that is not proper enough for Kitty's parents.

Then there are twists and turns after The Ruse is in place, which makes for enjoyable reading for the romantic in you. The reader of this pleasant novel will keep waiting for the end, but this is book one, and the hook catches - the reader will want more of The Beaucroft Girls.

The prose and the background are in the 1800s English but not overwhelming.  The novel is a quick, enjoyable read.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/354DlrR

Review of DOUBT, A HISTORY

DOUBT

Jennifer Michael Hecht

Review by Roy Murry, Author

'The brain is what got you this far in life, use it to move on,' is a paraphrased quote by a modern-day agnostic. I don't remember which, but to read Ms. Hecht's history of DOUBT, you need to put on your thinking cap. I took notes – eighty plus.

From Socrates to Mark Twain, she outlines the gods, Gods, religions (All), and gives the reader an education of their doubters. Having a little history knowledge, ancient through today will help the reader navigate through the storylines but is not necessary.

Whether you are a believer, an agnostic, or an atheist; you will enjoy the background information. Each historical character she explains in detail - his or her theology or philosophy. 

You may not agree with Ms. Hecht's rendition of her facts, but you will agree that her written prose is compelling. I had to stop and think many times - a good thing.

Ms. Hecht's writing flows through DOUBTS history smoothly - a well-written account of facts and fantasy most have forgotten or had no knowledge.  I will keep the book for reference.

It's a delightful read for an Epicurean Atheist like me. You will understand your life better if you buy this book.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2QkNdIG

Review of UNMASKING OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE STATE

Unmasking the Administrative State

JOHN MARINI with edit by KEN MASUGI

Review by Roy Murry, Author

I found this dissertation gripping with Mr. Marini's delving into the philosophy, psychology, and sociology of how the USA Government works. However, I have a college degree and have been trained in Psychological Warfare at the US Army's Special Force's JFK Center with an extensive, eclectic reading background.

That said: This thesis is not for the general reading public. The pleasure reader will not find enjoyment in reading this knowledgeable background explanation of the history of centralized operating governments.

Mr. Marini does not UNMASK names in the last twenty years of the USA ADMINISTRATION, but he does give the reader a lot to think about as to how the government has interfered with ordinary American's lives over that time frame and more.  One must be a reader of social and political history to enjoy this book.

I recommend it for want-to-be scholars and scholars. If you want an easy and fun read, check out other books I have reviewed. 

Purchase: https://amzn.to/362yRDu

meet...Clara Andrews

meet…Clara Andrews

LACEY LONDON

Review by Roy Murry, Author

Do Americans mix well with the English? Oliver, a Texan, meets Clara Andrews in a light drama that has an unusual ending.

Clara is a newly promoted Assistant Designer at a company that designs clothing accessories, and Oliver is brought into the company as the head designer of a new product line - Clara's new boss for the duration of his design contract.

A Texan falling in love with a Londoner in the UK is a one in a million shot. However, Clara is not just an English woman; she has the qualities that Oliver would marry.

I don't have to say any more about this romantic novel. You follow the drift.

Ms. London, if that is her real name, brings the reader to the point of emotional climax with a twist that turns to disaster. When the end arrives, the reader will be surprised without explanation.

You'll have to read the next in the series to find out the end. I enjoyed Ms. London's characters and the story-line and may go on to book two sometime in the future.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2MGBQKg

Review of CONCLUSIVE EVIDENCE

CONCLUSIVE EVIDENCE

AL MACY

Review by Roy Murry, Author

Garrett Goodlove (Really?) is a criminal defender turned family lawyer because of a personal tragedy in his life? That changes when he decides to defend a person accused of murder, his twin sister.

Her special needs are part of the underlining story, which brought light to something many of us do not think about - deafness. Because of this affection, some drama adds twists to the novel will please the reader.

The main plot has an intriguing events in it that come to light in the trial section, which Goodlove takes advantage of for the defense; and at one point he is conned by a beautiful lady. The suspense will keep the reader reading to the end, which will be a surprise, even to the victim's accomplice.

One of the best trial novels I have read lately - fast and not drowned in legalize wordage. I will go back to read another of Al's dramas in the future. You should read at least one.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2F4DYqW

Review of WHEN THE MUSIC ENDS

When The Music Ends

SIMONE BEAUDELAIRE

Review by Roy Murry, Author

This melodramatic love story has its ups and downs. The writing is excellent, but the drama is too much for a novel. For Romance lovers, you'll cry a lot.

The main characters click - her at eighteen and in High School, while he is four years her elder, but she has loved him forever..., her best friend's brother.  

From here, the story goes through all the emotions that lovers endear including her first sexual experience. However, the ending is not what you would expect of a novel titled When The Music Ends, because it does not, she is still playing her Oboe at the end, and a new series is born.

The twist and turns keep the reader involved and are worth the read.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2WRJZCM

Review of FLAMEKEEPER

FLAMEKEEPER

Peter Clancy Series (Book 5)

TW LAWLESS

Review by Roy Murry, Author

This book is the second of the series I have read, and it stands alone crossing the USA and introducing new characters. Peter's self-confidence is still battling the criminal element with his investigative style.

Peter Clancy's astute cognitive thinking gets him into cliff-hanging episodes the ordinary reporter wouldn't venture. Helping an SFPD inspector, he gets inside information that evolves into front-page news and Peter very close to the criminal element.

In the FLAMEKEEPER, TW's protagonist becomes one of the main characters of his news stories because he is so close to the flame he may burn. These close encounters are thrilling enough to keep the reader involved at a good reading pace. 

This novel is entertaining and keeps the reader connected. Everything I look for in a good read, page-turner.

Purchase:  https://amzn.to/2tfTXQc

Review of FROM GODS

FROM GODS

Descendant Prophecies Series, Bk 1

MARY TING

Review by Author Roy Murry

FROM GODS is for a young audience. So, I believe the author wrote it for that group of young people.

The plot was unusual and sometimes illogical, but I kept wanting to know what would happen in what seemed to be a one-sided love story. Skylar falls for Manson; I don't understand why, but she does.

Their paranormal adventure defied logic and was a bit funny considering the use of Greek gods as the descendants. The story had holes in it regarding those gods, which I let go and enjoyed the story for what it was - a YA genre novel - they don't care about accuracy in a series as this.

Skylar's powers will develop in the series, but I will move on to another genre. If you are young at heart and want some fun, I recommend this short read to a different world. 

Read free with Kindle:  https://amzn.to/35QmYAx

Review of DEADLY GAMBLE

DEADLY GAMBLE

Charlie Parker Mysteries

CONNIE SHELTON

Review by Roy Murry, Author

This novel is the first in a charming series about an accountant who gets involved in a murder case because of her ex-best friend's request. Quite unusual, but her and the real detective, her brother, own an Investigation Agency and he is out of town on another job.

Charlie is her name; however, sleuthing is not.  In this instance, the police didn't do their due diligence. She falls into the mystery, and it solves itself because of her kindness.

Accountants do have cognitive abilities. However, Charlie has another one that is needed to become a real detective - she asks great questions, some of which get her in trouble that adds suspense to the novel.

The characters are well defined, including her dog, which will help the series move on to solve new cases. I may return.

However, I felt something was missing in the plot.  Maybe you can find it. The story was enjoyable.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2YpoLs1

Review of THE FATHER OF US ALL

THE FATHER OF US ALL:     WAR AND HISTORY

 ---ANCIENT AND MODERN---

VICTOR DAVIS HANSON

Review by Roy Murry, Author

'Why the human race makes war?' Mr. Hanson's question presented in this somewhat Ph.D. thesis in this book. He completes the examination with an Epilogue with the paradoxes of the present state of war between the Western countries, i.e., mostly the USA vs. the autocratic countries.

Having taken Ancient History in college, I have some semblance of knowledge. However, a reader, who has not, might use the Index to help understand Davis Hanson's comparisons - Ancient vs. Modern warfare, physical and psychological.

Putting aside the above when reading, the reader will enjoy the smooth flow of the words explaining our world turmoil and why humans are killing each other. His narratives into past and present conflicts, over sometimes idiotic reasons, are compelling.

This read is not for the kind-hearted, but for people who cares about the state of affairs of today's wars and they are bloody consequences. Everyone in college and those who intellectually care should read this book, which will help them understand why humans will kill in the future world conflicts.

It would be best if you put your thinking cap on to read this thesis. I had to stop and think many times when contemplating Victor David Hanson's historical commentaries. Try reading it; thinking is a good exercise. 

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2EYF87a

Review of FENG SHUI FOR WRITERS

FENG SHUI FOR WRITERS

M.C. SIMON

Review by Roy Murry, Author

As my family, friends, and few fans know, I have written three novels, a poetry book, a few papers, and each week write a book review on my blog. Lately, I have written little - mostly book reviews.

I needed a boost to get over my writer’s block. I looked for solutions because many have asked me what was my 'Work-In-Process' at the moment. I didn’t tell the whole truth.

I saw FENG SHUI FOR WRITERS and thought 'What the hell,' and bought the book. I needed an 'Awakening' to start writing again daily.

Ms. Simon's easy to read instructions on how to regulate energy in the writing area was exciting and in detail. She advises as to where to put your desk, what goes on it, and to the direction, it should be facing according to Feng Shui.

She explains what is Feng Shui and gives a pep talk on how to get writing. She got me thinking – could this work.

Her plausible solutions will lead each type of writer to the energy points needed for results, using theories that may be questionable. However, Ms. Simon came across as a believer and convinced me enough to give them a try.

It was an enjoyable read even if you are not a believer. I’ll get back to you all if it changes my mood and I am writing my fourth novel.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/39oL33s