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

Read THE BAD BREAK

THE BAD BREAK

Jill Orr

Review by Roy Murry, Author

Mystery, whodunits, is the genre I read the most. Riley Ellison's is not in my top five list, but I give five stars for the beginning of a new series.

The Protagonist's character Riley is a well-thought-out one, and Ms. Orr has room to age her into the mystery genre. She is young with a keen mind but lacks the maturity of a seasoned report, her role.

The plot falls into place not because of Riley but because of the small-town murder that surrounds her character. Only incidents bring about a particular ending solving the crimes. 

That said. I did love the Riley character and the supporting group that edges her on and probes her youthfulness.  She is learning the ropes and learns fast even though sometimes physically.

Bad Break was enjoyable and funny at times. I recommend it if you care to start with book one of this mystery series. I may; I read this is two sittings. Ms. Orr has three novels out now.

Purchase https://amzn.to/2Y1av8C

Review of SHADOW OF THE SUN

SHADOW ON THE SUN

The Mound Builders, book 1

ZOE SAADIA

Review by Roy Murry, Author

Ms. Saadia's native American series are enjoyable because she puts in extensive research into them. You can tell by the way the history into the prose is not opaque, but gently hidden in the native's conversations.

With little written history, she grabs the reader into a plausible story that of a great tribe along the Ohio River. That tribe consumes the goods of smaller tribes on that tributary and using those men as builders of the Mounds - large buildings.

This story begins with the Tribute Collector and his niece. He is out collecting what the Royal Sun tribe demands of the lesser ones using force if need be. His niece moves up the royal ladder.

The collector brings back a strong-headed young man, who has proved his capabilities in killing and is to pay his penalty for that act. After a bloody battle to please the ruler, the young man meets the young niece by happenstance. You need to read book two to see if that story continues, as I may. 

Ms. Saadia story is compelling with an event that changed the world in 1205, according to some historians. That event overshadows the juncture of the two young people meeting and the way the Royals’ conflict with each other over it. 

This novel is well written and fast-paced - one seating read.

Purchase:  https://amzn.to/2sr6Qag

Review of THE SWEET TASTE OF SIN

The Sweet Taste of Sin

          THE FONTAINES

EMBER CASEY

Review by Roy Murry, Author

When you give up something precious of yourself, you will never get it back. That loving act is the beginning and the underlining love keeping the main character engaged with the past, present, and possible future of her romance. 

Ashlyn falls in love with a famous person, a Fontaine, in film school college. Handsome and wealthy Dante falls in love with her also, but there is a side of him that he will not let her in. They break up.

Then the story begins a few years later, and all emotions come to light again with an unfortunate event. Here is where the Taste of Sin starts with conversations and acts of sin that lead to another 'On again; off again,’ rollercoaster ride that does not seem to end.

However, it does end. Romantics will like the end; others will not. However, the written emotional conversations will keep the reader hoping for the best, as they should in a well put together beginning of a series - THE FONTAINES. 

Only reading on, will the love affair be fully developed between Ashlyn and Dante. It's worth the chase to get the series - the first book free on KINDLE.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2tdXYoh

Review of RETRIBUTION

     RETRIBUTION

  A Psychic Detective

         Kate Pierce

      Crime Thriller

C.M. SUTTER

Review by Roy Murry, Author

At times Ms. Sutter has the reader on the edge of their seat, but I found this thriller not believable. The writing is good, and the characters understandable. However, the story didn't come across as real.

Kate's character is well put together for a series. So, in telling me, the author gives away to the fact that Kate will survive any event.

I like police thrillers. This one didn't keep my attention completely.

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

Review of Ireland, A Novel

Ireland, A Novel

Frank Delaney

Review by Roy Murry, Author

"Explore all you like ---this Ireland; no family worth the name is without a secret. And you should know that in this country a secret is something everyone else knows," is said to Ronan when finding out a secret in his life. He is on the last road of his journey to find a Storyteller that started when he was nine.

Through short stories, many told by the Storyteller, letters read, people on Ronan's life quest to discover who he is, and lectures of his history professor, the reader will find the rich history of Ireland. This history told from before the Norman conquest to the Easter Rebellion of 1916 in a novel form that keeps your attention.

The roots of Irish myths, heroes, and the common man is in prose that will delight the reader - how the Irish tell a tale is fun to read. I read some stories over again. And you will too.

IRELAND, A NOVEL is one of the best reads of my career as a reviewer of over four hundred books.

Purchase:  https://amzn.to/37sKST8

WAKE UP AMERICA - BOOKS TO READ.

TWELVE BOOKS I READ SINCE Mr. TRUMP BECAME PRESIDENT THAT HELPED ME UNDERSTAND THE USA TODAY. We have been lied to by the Main Stream Media for Years. WAKE UP AMERICA

I RECOMMEND THE BELOW:

 3/21/2019 >Sidney Powell #Legal #DOJ #FBI LICENSED TO LIE #bookreview http://bit.ly/2OezMse Purchase: https://amzn.to/2RBG4Wj

>Victor Davis Hanson’s MEXIFORNIA #IllegalImmigrants #History #bookreview  http://bit.ly/2TNBuGe Purchase: https://amzn.to/36FRk8q

>@Cato Institute  Micheals & Knappenberger LUKEWARMING

The New Climate Science That Changes Everything http://bit.ly/2RNfwyB

Purchase: https://amzn.to/36CL8On

>Shelby Steele’s #Political #CivilRights SHAME How America’s Past Sins Have Polarized Our Country  #bookreview http://bit.ly/2XyMruw Purchase: https://amzn.to/37F56JL

>George Orwell’s #Political dystopian novel published as Nineteen Eighty-Four or 1984, originally published in 1949 http://bit.ly/2U0OvZB  Purchase: https://amzn.to/31dPQRK

> Yoram Hazony’s THE VIRTUE OF NATIONALISM #bookreview #Political #Nationalism http://bit.ly/2EX8Zig  Purchase: https://amzn.to/38Rlwic

>Oran Thaller’s UNITING KINGDOMS #Philosophy #Motivational #Globalism #bookreview http://bit.ly/2GDjZD9 Purchase: https://amzn.to/38Rlwic

>Congressman Ken Buck’s DRAIN THE SWAMP #USA #Politics #Government #bookreview http://bit.ly/2EbgTne Purchase: https://amzn.to/2RBJAzZ

>@TuckerCarlson ’s SHIP of FOOLS #Political #History #bookreview http://bit.ly/2OAWs8T  Purchase: https://amzn.to/3aOAYxz

>Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules of Life, An Antidote to Chaos #Bookreview http://bit.ly/2nxoTWA #psychology #philosophy #purchase: https://amzn.to/2RBzsHk

>Ben Shapiro's THE ESTABLISHMENT IS DEAD #Politics #Bookreview http://bit.ly/2pVmWH1 Purchase: https://amzn.to/2vu0BU0

 3/1/17 >Mike Lofgren’s #UnitedStates THE DEEP STATE #DeepState #Bookreview http://bit.ly/2lt4Cxt Purchase: https://amzn.to/37DMNEB   

REview of TAROT HAUNTING

Tarot Haunting

E.B. Sullivan

Review by Roy Murry, Author

This novel is a fun read with a predictable ending. After all, it is a romance story with an interesting twist that keeps the reader engaged.

There are roadblocks in Cassie's story. She has her doubts as to her evaluations of situations never encounter in her sheltered life after taking a position in New York City with a TV personality. She becomes the historical researcher for his show.

Whether you are religious or not, the reader will enjoy how Ms. Sullivan equates Tarot Cards to Cassie's faith base Biblical rules. After Cassie reads/interprets a card, the story moves forward for the good or the bad in her relationships with her boss, Jared, and her over religious protective family.

That movement has some twists and turns that the reader will laugh at and maybe cry a tear in some places, wishing the best for Cassandra on her journey of self-realization.  It all works out in the end. Maybe?

'One sitting' read for the romance lover waiting for the punch line.

Quite enjoyable. I think I am a Romantic. LOL

Purchase: 

https://amzn.to/2Qb0pB6

REview of LICENSE TO LIE

LICENSE TO LIE

Exposing Corruption in the

Department of Justice

SIDNEY POWELL

Mainstream Media will never tell you this story about one of the members of The Mueller's investigation into a collision that has taken two years without credibility. His name is Weissmann, who also headed the Eron, Anderson, Merrill Lynch probes and trial as the lead prosecutor.

Ms. Powell exposes their corrupt "Gamesmanship," a term in legal circles referring to the way lawyers conduct themselves during a case. She contends that Weissmann and the company play the legal game dirty and illegally.

For some years, she was Jim Brown's lawyer in the MERRILL case after being a prosecutor for many years. With her experience, Ms. Powell outlines each case mentioned above, including another DOJ overreach that ended in acquittal. The detail of her discourse is overwhelming and to the point.

Ms. Powell has turned the table on the DOJ. Or has she? Will, her client, go back to prison for the government's misconduct? Will others pay the price for the Prosecutors hiding the truth from the defendants? 

The above is the exciting part of this novel/expose’ that uses the actual trial transcript to bring the point across - the DOJ does not play fair, and there are no repercussions when they lie as to the truth of a case in and out of court.   

Her point is clear and puts the government and Mr. Weissmann on the spot, but you will not hear it in the news, and we didn't know when the above cases were tried.

I found the book a little lengthy and redundant at times, but well written. It is worth 'the dime.'

Purchased: https://amzn.to/2Zg1bBw

REview of MEXIFORNIA

MEXIFORNIA

A State of Becoming

VICTOR DAVIS HANSON

Review by Roy Murry, Author

Closed or open borders on the southern frontier of the USA is the central question of Mr. Hanson's thesis. He gives the reader the full spectrum of pros and cons to contemplate in his description of the state of California the way he sees it as a native farmer and professor of history.

The complexities of the Mexican illegal immigration that California seems to be the epicenter may spread across the country if the governments on each side of the divide do not pay attention to the reasons for that migration. The movements of that migration must be either stopped or opened is the question the USA Congress and the American people must decide - walls or no walls.

MEXIFORNIA is a piece of excellent background information as to what has happened since the 1970s to the present situation. Latins, illegal or not, are the backbone of the farming industry in that state.

According to the author, his and thousands of Californians’ lives have changed with the constant flow of young migrants replacing older ones, working on farms and hard labor.  Many of them have not acquired the ability to assimilate to become citizens or speak the English language.

This situation has changed the economic landscape, much for the worst, and could spread throughout the USA.

If the USA immigration at our Southern border is of interest to you, MEXIFORNIA is an intelligent read to start your quest of understanding illegal immigration.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/36emyEf

Review of Say You're Sorry

SAY YOU'RE SORRY

Morgan Dane, Book 1

MELINDA LEIGH

Review by Roy Murry, Author

Morgan, a lawyer, who has worked on the government's side of the bench before her semi-retirement because of a horrific event in her life, finds herself defending the rights of a friend. The friend, a young man, is accused of killing another friend of Morgan's.

With the help of Lance and company, Morgan goes into an investigative mood. In detecting, they confront many obstacles and by government officials because they have their man - her young friend.

Will, there be a trial or will Morgan, and Lance find the real killer? Only if they stay alive will they find the killer, and this becomes a blockage in their investigation also - some people want Morgan and her client dead.

Ms. Leigh intriguing story that keeps the reader guessing as to whodunit. I was surprised at the beginning and the end.

Quick read. Purchase: https://amzn.to/2CgZTdn