Review of THE STRANGE DEATH OF EUROPE

 

THE STRANGE DEATH OF EUROPE

 

DOUGLAS MURRAY

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

'When you allow unvetted mass immigration into your country, the world's problems become your problems.' is my takeaway from this well-researched book on how the globalist in Berlin and Brussels (EU) destroyed nation-states in western Europe.  England, France, Italy, Germany, Sweden are the center countries of Murray’s arguments that have collapsed in identity, socially, demographically, and economically.

For me, this is an indictment of failed politicians (Globalists) who feel they know best for other countries. They do not consider the clashes of cultures, Islam vs. Christianity psychologically. The integration of humanity will take of that.

Mr. Murray makes excellent points on what I just mentioned and more, leaving the reader with PERHAPS... Maybe profoundly ingrained beliefs, over centuries, will change.

The arguments, pros, and cons about religion, mass migration, refugees, and national pride are profound. So, as I, the reader, will stop, take notes, think, and want to know where the world is heading.

Born in the USA, I am concerned with its new unvetted mass migration and refugees from Afghanistan arriving daily. If you are also, you should read this book.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/38Ql06n

 

Review of ALL OF ME

ALL of ME

The Bridesmaid Club

LEEANNA MORGAN

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

Tess, an ex-model, owns a small-town cafe after a traumatic event that still possesses her. Logan, a veteran war reporter, moves to the town and, for a year, is smitten by her.

She does not like reporters. At this point, the educated reader knows they'll get together. Each has its horror stories that collide in the relationship that lead to confrontations.

Romance lovers will love the characters, but the storyline has too many backstory gaps, which they will overlook. However, these genre lovers will enjoy the tit for tat of Tess and Logan's relationship and forgive the holes in the story.

Because ALL OF ME is well-written with interesting characters, I recommend it to all Romance Lovers, using Kindle, to read the series. All others beware.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3xOtJzT

 

 

Review of SAGE ADVICE

SAGE ADVICE

Lives and Maxims of Some 

of History's Wisest People

 

RICHARD K. BORDEN

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

SAGE ADVICE is a collection of thoughts for the INQUISITIVE MIND. These thoughts or maxims make your mind go into a tailspin.

From Ptah-Hotep of Egypt to Gandhi, eighteen of Borden's wisest people’s short biographies and advice in thoughtful phrases are well organized. Fortunately, the book layout divides the bio from the maxims giving the reader the luxury of not being confused or trying to know who said what.

With each biography, the reader will see the evolution in thoughts over the thousands of human existences. The maxims, if read slowly, quietly, and separately, will lead the reader to self-evaluation – always a good thing.

You don't need to be a philosophy or a psychologist to read SAGE ADVISE. However, you should be a thoughtful person with an Inquisitive Mind a la Murry's Readers Are Leaders.

A well-written collection.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3xtm89J

 

Review of The POWER of Your Subconscious Mind

The POWER of Your Subconscious Mind

 

JOSEPH MURPHY

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

I started reading this book in 2008 and pick it up every day to remind me that life goes on and I can change how I see it. Murphy's book did change my life; I will not go into details of how.

But this book, combined with ‘How to Be Idle,’ can do that for you.

See review: https://bit.ly/2UVt81K.

It would take all day for me to explain what I mean. YOU NEED TO READ THESE BOOKS.

Murphy goes into detail on how our human minds work and how we use them. What we read, think, and profess goes into our subconscious mind and stays there.

You can change what goes in your mind by following proven methods given within. Do it today before it’s too late.

A computer maximum is "Garbage in; Garbage Out," and according to this book, the same is for your subconscious mind. So, therefore, I agree with Joseph Murphy 100%.

That is why I recommend this brilliant book.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3zb2BfG

 

Review of Dog Man

 

DOGMAN #1

 

Dav Pilkey

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

It is a fun book with illustrations of Dog Man and his nemesis Petey, a cat, of course. Who else would irritate a dog?

Petey is the mastermind of most of the city's crimes. Dog Man is a policeman who goes after the criminal of somewhat stupid crimes.

One crime stands out for me. Petey deletes all the WORDS of the world. It is incredible and hilarious how Dog Man solves the crime. I am happy to say Dog Man promotes reading in the adventure.

The reading is simple, and the illustrations are funny. Dog Man series is a good one for your nine to twelve-year-old.

I read it on my kindle, black and white. But, my ten-year-old grandson has a book, which is colorful, and he loves it. So, I will see how many he has in the ten-book series and buy him the rest.

 Purchase the series or just this book: https://amzn.to/2TKfDSh

 

Review of DOOM

 

DOOM

The Politics of Catastrophe

NIALL FERGUSON

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

This profound history of every disaster you know or think you know - from wars, volcanoes, famines to plagues. Mr. Ferguson writes the story's factors one would not think existed.

The depth of each disaster's background is disturbing and not in any history books printed about those events I have read. I am 73 years old and have read much history.

In Niall Ferguson's written words, "the central point of this book - that all disasters are at some level man-made political disasters, even if they originate with new pathogens." His explanations of those horrendous events in history bring the reader to the present day.

While living in lockdown, he proposes why the Asian Flu 1957-1958 is similar to the COVID 2020 and shows the political and network differences at the beginning of the events. In some of his detail, the reader will agree with, some not.

However, his arguments are worth reading if you have an Inquisitive Mind - One of my top 10 reads of my life.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3qHu2ux

 

Review of BED and BREAKFAST an MURDER

BED and BREAKFAST and MURDER

Fiona Fleming Cozy Mysteries #1

PATTI LARSEN

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

If you love Pugs that fart and follow you around, this book is for you. Fiona or Fee returns to her Vermont hometown because she inherited her grandmother's B&B and her pug; and because she was running away from a bad relationship.

Soon Fee finds out the business may not be hers from a despicable man. That person is found dead in the B&B's garden the next day.

Fee's family is a ‘Police.’ one, and she feels she should have been a detective, as her father was the Sheriff of the town. So, she does the sleuthing of the crime against multiply confrontation with the new good-looking present one.

Fiona does upset many in the small town leading to an explosive ending with an unlikely suspect. Truthfully, the reader should be able to follow the clues as the pug does.

Ms. Larsen's writing is cute and humorous but not the best cozy mystery I have read. Her character Fiona is the only character you will want to follow if you decide to read the series, which I recommend for fun because she is a character. 

 

Purchase:  https://amzn.to/3iPBmlO

 

Review of TROUBLE TRIANGLE

 

TROUBLE TRIANGLE

Bk#1 Tyler's Trouble Trilogy Series

 

TRAVIS CASEY

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

“Oh, what a tangled web we weave...when first we practice to deceive.” Sir Walter Scott. This quote is appropriate for what happens after Tyler's USA Navy deployment in Hawaii.

Based on a bet with his roommate, Mark, he pursues a young lady, Holly. At the same time, he is enjoying the company of another woman, Debbie, who has a secret connection with the first.

Tyler's past life catches up with him, and he becomes connected to Holly, both physically and legally speaking.  Debbie asks Tyler for a sexual favor, and he complies. Both wrong moves, according to Mark.   

The relationship games begin becoming an emotional rollercoaster ride for all in the TROUBLE TRIANGLE. That triangle leads to an explosive ending which the reader will not see coming.

Mr. Casey's writing is crisp, easy to follow, funny, and at times vulgar. His characters, especially Tyler, come alive in an adult romantic comedy.  

I believe Book # 2 will have some more foot-in-mouth adventures.

 Purchase https://amzn.to/3pJBtAS

 

Review of I ALWAYS WANTED TO BE A SPY

 

I ALWAYS WANTED

TO BE A SPY

A Maggie Sloan Thriller

JUDITH A. BARRETT

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

Maggie is a strange but incredible individual. A Librarian who wants to be a spy. Her ability to observe and clarifying a situation is out of the box for an average person.

She sees something and has an immediate recall. Maggie's personality has a wit the reader will enjoy as her supporting characters, including her imaginary sidekicks.

An event at the library she is working puts Maggie and her friends through multi-whirlwind thrilling deadly encounters with an unknown enemy. Consolidated effort brings this adventure to a dreadful gunfight ending.

Ms. Barrett's story has its peaks and lulls, but the peaks outweigh the lulls. The characters and interwoven thrilling events make this a worthwhile read, a series starter.

Thrillers will be thrilled.

 

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3wR5nFq

 

Review of I CLOSE MY EYES

 

I CLOSE MY EYES

Close Series; Book One

 

REGINA PUCKETT

 

Reviewed by Author Roy Murry

 

Out of the 1800s, Ms. Puckett brings us two new characters, Lady Jane, the daughter of a Duke, and a young Duke Phillip. Each has a significant conflict with their fathers, which leads to discomfort.

The times dictate society's mores. In Jane and Phillip's case, their betrothal is unconventional for the level of the caste culture of royalty.

The two were found in a simple misunderstanding that Jane's stepmother stained it with a lie. A conflict began, and they were married.

The conflict is not with Jane and Phillip but with others. The devious events that follow throughout by those people bring the two closers.

Their marriage becomes an individual soul searching of the past, which brings them together to the place that Jane sees when she closes her eyes. And, the next chapter in The Duke and Duchess live to begin in Book Two.

I believe this is my fourth Romance novel by Ms. Puckett I have read.  All have been a delightful read. I assure you the series is a tear-jerking read.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3ovQKof

 

 

Review of THE MADNESS OF CROWDS

 

THE MADNESS OF CROWDS

 

DOUGLAS MURRAY

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

"Disagreement is not oppression. Argument is not assault. Words - even provocative or repugnant ones - are not violence. The answer to speech we do not like is more speech." is a quote Mr. Douglas Murray uses in his dissertation on Gay, Women, Race, and Trans' evolution. This rational analysis opened my eyes using historical information and events unknown to me.

Mr. Murray's insightful conservative conclusions dissect the grievances of many who are too Woke to the point that they would call this book propaganda. On the other hand, I call his A-to-Z explanations: the mores of the mob dominating our social media and affecting young minds.

The new world metaphysics and intersectionality have a battle on their hands against facts, science, logic, and the truth. Mr. Murray brings this all to light in his long and detailed debates of the issues mentioned above.

The writing is an intelligent and thought-provoking read. "The Madness of Crowds is A BOOK FOR THE INQUISITIVE MIND, ala Murry's Readers Are Leaders.

 

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2Rnsh8v

 

 

Review of RUNNING UNDER SAIL

 

RUNNING UNDER SAIL

A Connie Barrera Thriller

 

CLR DOUGHERTY

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

Having lived and worked in the Caribbean islands for twenty-six years (List below), I look for reads about places I have been. Mr. Dougherty, with his thrilling series, fills that void. I have read a few of his novels.

Even though this read is 5th in the Connie Barrera series, this adventure story stands alone. You get the Connie and Paul's background with a twist that keeps the reader wanting more.

Sadie's agent charters Connie and Paul's yacht to cruise the Caribbean, running from a past that wants her back and under control.  Because of Sadie's popularity as a jazz singer, that bad element has made headway and bears down on their location.

That criminal element has no idea what they are up against until the last moment. Connie puts on the con to con a con man, and Paul, an ex-cop, calls in favors.

This adventure leads to a thrilling end which builds up throughout the read. RUNNING UNDER SAIL is a nautical term Sadie learns, and the reader will RUN/READ this novel in one sitting - guaranteed.

 

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3gGblV4

 

The list of places I have worked in the Caribbean Hospitality Industry: Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, Curaçao, Aruba, and Margarita, Venezuela. While there, I traveled to other islands by air or sail.   

Review of HOOKED

 

HOOKED

Food, Free Will, and How the Food Giants exploit our Addictions

 

MICHAEL MOSS

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

HOOKED is an explosive read that will have your brain spinning. There are no conclusions into why humans are addicted to food, alcohol, or drugs, only expert opinions.

Mr. Moss gives an excellent case that the major food producers manipulate their products' formulas to control human consumption and sales. However, the center of human addictions to food cannot ultimately indict them.

As he notes, paraphrased: Humans have been unwitting conspirators in letting them exploit all the ways that we're drawn to their food. We have a choice as to what we eat, whether it's processed food, i.e., a jar of spaghetti sauce, or cooking it from scratch, as I do.

Mr. Moss cites the use of price, ease of purchase, taste (Salt, Sugar, and Fat) are the ways major food producers control human eating habits. They spend millions to perfect that marketing program to keep humans HOOKED on their product lines.

His case is solid but does not convict those manipulators, in my opinion. HOOKED is full of opinions, as with what you put in your mouth.

HOOKED is a book for THE INQUISITIVE MIND. It is an excellent read that the reader will use and think about it for days.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3avrRmQ

 

Review of Harvey Penick's Little Red Book of Golf

 

'GOLF' HARVEY PENICK'S

     LITTLE RED BOOK

HARVEY PENICK & 

BUD SHRAKER

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

I found this little jewel of lessons and teachings from Mr. Penick's lifetime in golf by accident. I have been playing golf since I was fourteen and never heard of Harvey.

If you lived in Texas in the 1970s, '80s, and '90s and heard of Davis Love III, Tom Kite, Byron Nelson, Kathy Whitworth, and many others you may have known about Harvey, their instructor.  I had not because I was living, working, and playing golf in the Caribbean during that time with little access to the USA's TV channels.

At the beginning of this book, the above professional golf champions introduce Harvey to the reader. I was surprised that I had not heard of him, and if you're a golfer of that era, you may also have not.

Bud Shrake, an American journalist, sportswriter, and novelist helped Harvey write the rest of this book of golfing advice. I had some of Harvey's lessons in my brain because I was on my high school's golf team.

Our coach was a part-time professional in the '60s. So I knew how to approach the ball, perform my waggle, and hit the ball straight. If you do not know why a 'waggle' is needed, you need this book.

Harvey's advice is extensive; a beginner, a weekend player, or an active golfer should read the book from cover to cover. Two of my playing partners are using Harvey's nuggets of knowledge, and you should use them also.

 

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3tmuYoD

Review of FUREY'S WAR

 

FUREY'S WAR

 

T.W. LAWLESS & KAY BELL

Review by Author Roy Murry

My first thought was that this was a memoir of an old soldier: ex-military hero, ex-police Sergeant Furey. After the first chapter where he, at 100, is lying in bed waiting for death, I felt like I was in for a whirlwind of a story, which I got.

The time was World War II. The Yankees were coming to Furey's Catholic-run town in Australia. Where close by, the American's were building a military air-base.

Furey's War is the conflicts in ideologies and norms of the nineteen forties, fifties, and the sixties. As a retired Catholic Baby Boomer, born in 1948, I understand what John Furey lived through as a policeman.

Furey investigates a murder, rape of a young girl, abortion rights, the town's gossip mill, military (Aussie vs. the USA), and a Catholic priest raft with these conflicts daily. Interwoven is the human problem of racism.

That is a mouth full, but T.W. and Kay make the story work where even the Archbishop agrees (Read the story to find out why). Their prose keeps the reader wondering, 'What next could happen?'

I recommend this story to the intelligent reader. There is more to it than the story.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3s5k317

 

Review of KINGS & DAEMONS

 

KINGS & DAEMONS

The Gifted and The Cursed

Book 1

 

MARCUS LEE

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

Good virus Evil is a tale that is told in many genres. This one happens to be a Fantasy with some unusual twists that gives the Good the upper hand over Evil.

Both sides of the spectrum are gifted in one way or the other.  Maya, a young woman, is the lead character who meets Taran, another gifted person on her way to be prisoned by the evil Witch-King Daleth, who has a different kind of gift.

Maya is the key to the adventure where Taran and his lord Rakan are her protectors, keeping her from getting into Daleth's hands. This journey to freedom has many roadblocks leading to many blood and guts conflicts with daemons, giants, and Daleth's elite Rangers.

Mr. Lee's novel meets all the Fantasy requirements with illusions, magic, faith healing, and flying in one's dreams to another land. It is a good lead-in Book 1 with character development and excellent writing technic that leaves the reader wanting more.

If you like Fantasies, this is for you.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/39DCx2o 416 pages for $.99 on Kindle

 

Review of SUNNY SIDE UP

 

Sunny SIDE UP

A Deadline Cozy Mystery

Book 1

SONIA PARIN

Reviewed by Author Roy Murry

 

Between jobs and running away from events, Eve decides to visit her romance author, aunt Mira. Arriving in her aunt's small town, she meets people familiar who welcome her back since she hasn't visited for a while.

Eve spends a couple of nights in her aunt's house alone because her aunt Mira is nowhere to be found. This does not bother Eve nor their town friends since Author Mira goes about her research and writing business away from town.

What does upset the apple cart is Eve finds a dead body in her aunt's kitchen returning from buying groceries. She knows the victim because it's her ex-husband.

Detective Jack begins his investigation after interviewing Eve, telling her not to go anywhere nor butt in. However, Eve and her new friend Jill go about sleuthing.

When they do, the twists and turns are few because the killer is closer than expected. And still, opened is where is her aunt Mira - dead?

Fast, well-written read with fun conversations between the lead characters. This novel is a good lead-in for a series if you like reading them.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3lOCc1s

Review of QUEEN OF KLUTZ

 

QUEEN OF KLUTZ

 

SAMANTHA GARMAN

Sibby Series Book 1

 

Review by 

Author Roy Murry

 

Sibby is her name, and boy is she different. This tongue-in-cheek story focuses on the hilarious misadventures of a young lady trying to find her groove.

This comical relief's dialogue is quick wit with little profanity. She is a klutz, but things happen to her that many people do not experience in a lifetime.

The novel starts with a few scenes that few could handle. It puts her life into a tailspin, and she finds a home as a waitress.

Even though Sibby's propensity for spilling, dropping, tripping, her ability to laugh at herself and make light of each situation leads her to a man.  This develops into a foregone conclusion for romance readers.

That trip has its ups and downs but lands in a comfortable place, leading to an enjoyable ending, unlike most romance novels. Peaches and cream lead into book two of this klutzy series.

The writing was fast-paced, funny, and sometimes ridiculous—a quick, enjoyable read.

Book is Free for Kindle Readers: https://amzn.to/2Q3ZQeB

Review of BLATANT LIES

 

BLATANT LIES

 

PAUL KNOX

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

This 110-page thriller went so fast; I could not help myself; I finished it in one sitting.  Mr. Knox keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.

Newbie Deputy Reece Cannon strangely earns her stripes. She meets a crazy woman by stopping her for a speeding violation.

Jessie, that woman is talking about spies, the CIA, and a conspiracy. One thing leads to another, and Reece contacts her friend, a Lieutenant who speaks one of the spy's languages.

Could it be? There are spies among them. Yes.

Reece's world goes into a fast-paced spin with Jessie in the middle of a trap. How the deadly events that follow explode go so fast the reader will have to slow down and read over the events.

Mr. Knox makes it into my top thriller category for excellence. I will read another of his novels soon. You should too.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3tfjrH6

Review of JUST ONE CHANCE

 

JUST ONE CHANCE

 

BRENNA JACOBS

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

Young and good-looking Chicagoan Doctor David moves in next door to Avery on affluent Sullivan's Island, South Carolina. She has eyes for Dr. Dave after a few meetings, but she has an on-again, off-again lover, Matt.

Avery is trying to close the deal with Matt. However, he seems to be different from their first go around, and in the relation's voids, she finds Dave refreshing in his lack of social graces. Dave is smitten with Avery.

Dr. Dave inadvertently finds out Matt is not the man he seems to be. A conflict between the two leads to the close destruction of all three's relationships.

This collision course explodes, and all three end up where logic and love prevail. To find out whom romance triumphs, one must read this small tangled web of a story.

A quick and enjoyable read for Romance lovers.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3vohhGT

 

 

 

Review of BLACK ROSES

 

BLACK ROSES

 

SAMANTHA CHRISTY

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

Love is not in the air. Piper does not like men, and Mason is smitten, which is not new for him being a professional jock. 

 Piper returns home from Europe, where she has lived with her girlfriend for years, to help with her sister's wedding. Mason and his daughter are adopted Mitchell family members.

Their meeting leads to an emotional rollercoaster: Piper has a dark secret that sent her into a psychological tailspin; Mason has a ball and chain he has not fully disconnected. That relationship includes a stalking girlfriend.

Mason, after a few meetings with Piper, is in love. She does not want anything to do with a man, but he is a good man, family, and friends sell that fact.

The romance is a battleground of trust, which leads to an explosive emotional ending. Will they be joined in bliss? You'll need to read this unpredictable journey.

Ms. Christy's writing brings tears to your eyes. But if you have a weak stomach, her descriptive prose and adult language may shock you, beware.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3joackc

 

Review of SUBVERSIVE

 

SUBVERSIVE

Clandestine Magic Trilogy, Bk 1

 

COLLEEN COWLEY

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

'He has magical powers. She does not. Only men can have that power.' is the central theme of this novel. Women could never become wizards; that is the law.

Blackwell, a wizard, picks Beatrix to be his assistant. Her sister is a women's rights advocate. Let the games begin.

Because of the above relationships, conflicts arise that upset both the magical and ordinary worlds. These events include attempted murder, a love story, and a magic upheaval.

Beatrix's sister is a marked woman because of her group's' activism; Bea and Blackwell have a thing going on in their dreams; the high powers are investigating everyone. All the events come to an explosive ending.

The prose was fun to read because of the unpredictable characters and the magical episodes. It was an interesting setup for this trilogy. I may read on.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3psT4vJ

Review of WHEN YOU LOOK AT ME

 

WHEN YOU LOOK AT ME

A Pleasant Gap Romance

 

PEPPER BASHAM

 

Reviewed by Author Roy Murry

 

I had no idea what a Pleasant Gap Romance novel was until now. It is a story of a Family Faith-based couples falling in love.

In this novel, the second in a series, Julia, who physically and mentally is not inclined to fall in love. And, Henry is visiting from England on an assignment to write music for his friend's movie.

Their love of music uniquely grounding and brings them together. On many levels, that media bring each out of their introverted existence.  Hers is a seven-month pregnancy from rape, and he is writing music and a dysfunctional family in England.

There is a joint ground meeting of the minds, and sparks fly. When this happens halfway through the book, the reader can surmise the ending.

The two lovers also solve a mystery of who or what Julia's benefactress dead aunt is, which brings an ending to this second book. The mystery started in London and brought both back there.

Other than the obvious, this read is a pure delight to read. A book an authentic Christian will enjoy.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3qkfe3o

 

 

 

 

Review of 21 Lessons for the 21st Century

 

21 Lessons for the 21st Century

 

Yuval Noah Harari

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

'Democrat politics, human rights, and free-market seem destined to conquer the entire world.' is one of lesson one's core points. I beg to differ. China actions, he does not consider.

In 21 chapters, Mr. Harari opines on almost everything under the sun: Technology, Politics, Humanity, and His Truths. The philosophy and psychology of each he delves into with zeal and commitment.

Whether you agree with him or not, his arguments and thesis are worth reading. I had to stop and read over several passages to understand his points fully.

If you are a thinking person, I recommend this book to go along with others: Intellectuals and Society by Thomas Sowell and Jennifer Michael Hecht's DOUBT, a History.  They will open your eyes to what is happening in the 21st Century.

One thing I loved about this book is that Mr. Harari's writing is clear and thought-provoking. Nihilist will be surprised.

Both books mentioned above I have reviewed - search above.

Purchased this: https://amzn.to/2Lfi8Yp

Review of MAGIC DESTINY

 

MAGIC DESTINY

The Irish Rogue Series, 

Book One

 KATE GELLAR

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

Looking at the Amazon reviews, I seem to be the only guy to read about Abby's adventure in Ireland. I picked out the book to read because of the "Irish Rogue Series." I am part Irish.

Then I started to read and thought I was getting into an erotic novel with the talk of bonding. Surprise, the novel is about witches and the keeping "A Seal" closed, locking in evil spirits into the underworld.

Four men, guardians, evaluate ten women who have witches’ linage to find a queen. All four men are to bond with the queen to save the Irish world.

Abby has no idea what is happening. The world has changed for her in an adventure that turns her life upside down.

This beginning may or may not save the day until the bonding is complete. Maybe in book two of the series - an excellent writing hook by the author.

I would have liked a little more background story. However, I enjoyed Abby's play with the guardians.

The prose was first-rate and the main characters are well-defined, leading into book two, which I will not read because one bonding is enough for me.

However, this read is a good one standing on its own.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/37TZXAc

Review of HIT THE ROAD JACK

 

HIT the ROAD, JACK

A JACK RYDER NOVEL

WILLOW ROSE

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

I enjoyed this novel. However, Jack Ryder is not the sharpest Police Detective I have met in print.

I am a television LAW and ORDER freak and have read many books in this genre for ninety-nine cents. This thriller had its moments but did not meet my high standards of police dramas/thrillers.

Hit the Road, Jack, the first book in a series, is based around a serial killer who kills women who cheat on their husbands. Clues are abounding, and for a small island, a number stand out like a sore thumb for amateur sleuths but is entirely unnoticed by Jack.

I liked the characters, but I wished Ms. Willow Rose developed them more in this novel. However, with Florida's motel/hotel background, I got a kick out of, because I lived and worked in more than one, beaches and all.

The prose was clear and understandable, with no mystery to solve. All in all, the novel was a fair read.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/38pIONE

 

Review of SLANTED

 

SLANTED

 

SHARYL ATTKKISSON

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

In October of 2017, I read Ms. Attkisson's THE SMEAR. Her detailed insights I confirmed through research. She writes clear and concisely, so I decide to read SLANTED.

This thesis compares what we face today with the dystopian world foretold by Orwell in 1984, which most of us have read in college. Journalism, print, and television news are SLANTED towards their corporate Narrative.

The Narrative is promoted and SLANTED using it, not giving the consumer the complete facts or leaving out information that would change the Narrative. I noticed this in 2016 watching CNN every day through President Trump's inauguration, and have not watched the channel since.

Ms. Attkisson begins with her journey in the 1990s, from CNN to CBS, and brings us many personal experiences to illustrate her thesis. However, she started her career in 1982 at PBS, where she learned, at the time, that journalists should stick to the reporting standards they've developed, rather than abandon them.

Unfortunately, most journalists have abandoned the core standards by putting the truth first and upfront in a story reported. They SLANT towards THE NARRATIVE.  I see it all the time after reading her two books.

Ms. Attkisson's abilities shine through THE NARRATIVES and get to the truth of the matter. The media have been pulling the wool over our eyes for years, but more so during the Trump years.

 

Thank you, Sherly, for The insight.

 

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2J9QZVS

 

Review of THE AXE & GRINDSTONE

 

THE AXE & GRINDSTONE

Paul Phipps-Williams

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

I usually don't purchase horror novels; not my cup of tea. It's the same with movies. I find them silly. I picked up this novel because I think I got it free.

The only enjoyment I got from this novel was it centering around a pub. In small towns worldwide, the pub is where the people meet to discuss local and national news.

Mark Adams takes a position of honor running a pub in a land of horror by a lady he adores. At first, he is oblivious to the situation, he catches on, and then falls into a drunken dream or reality.

The elements he meets, human and non-human, define his life's introspection. How Adams lives through the adventure will be chilling to some readers, but it was not for me.

I had to be careful not to lose my place in reading this somewhat dull novel. However, I will say at times, the Scratching, a plague in the novel bothered me.

Mr. Phipps-Williams writes well, but as I said, horror is not a genre I like to read or watch in a movie. If you do enjoy horror, I recommend it to you.

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Review of CASTELMEZZANO

 

CASTELMEZZANO,

THE WITCH IS DEAD

An Italian Cozy Mystery

ADRIANA LICIO

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

Two Italian women, both retired teachers, meet on a path that leads from one village to another. The popular route presents the women with a conundrum - a dead naked woman's body they believe to be a witch.

This comical whodunit begins with tales of how witches die, particularly this one whom they know. When the ladies put their heads together, results happen.

All Etta and Dora’s and the local police investigations lead to a quick and exciting ending. It seems these ladies will join together for future sleuthing.

The writing is polished, funny, and fast-paced—a quick read for afternoon enjoyment.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3o28B4H

 

Review of ABDUCTED AT THE ALTAR

 

ABDUCTED AT THE ALTAR

 

CYNTHIA WRIGHT

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

When France and Scotland joined by marriage, a regal mandate, in the 1500s, one of the main characters, Christophe, Chevalier de St. Briac, must journey to Scotland to refurbish that King's castle. In his endeavor, he meets Fiona, a cultured lass of a robust and wealthy family.

From that moment on, a whirlwind of events commences based on the Scottish culture's moors clashing with the French. However, Fiona and Christophe's engagements and conversations are above the fray, putting them in harmony with each other.

Each must overcome an evil put upon them by another to be together. This situation leads to an unexpected ending, hooking the reader into the next chapter in the 'Crowns & Kilts' series.

The story is a bit of a captivating experience, bringing history and cultural differences into the forefront. A romance novel with adventure is always an excellent read when written by a person with the style of a Cynthia Wright.

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Review of THE DEVIL YOU KNOW

 

THE DEVIL YOU KNOW

 

TERRY TYLER

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

The people living in your circle, family, and friends, do you know them?  Are they what they seem, or are you delusional?

A thirty-five to a fifty-year-old serial killer is roaming Lyndford, England. The police publish his facial sketch in the newspaper. The young women are his target.

Who is he, Tom, Dick, Harry or someone you know? Ms. Tyler gives the reader a few stories that may define the killer.

Each scenario is a dramatic, wrenching event that guides the reader to believe this person is the man. The lead plot character is sure they know the killer and determine to get him.

Only one man did the crimes, or did he? The reader may know at THE END or not.

Drama and thriller put into a good read. You'll have to be a Sherlock to read between the lines and decide whodunit.

This novel is my third read of Terry's endeavors. Well written and enjoyable as always.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/393c5zA

 

Review of HELLO NEIGHBOR

 

HELLO NEIGHBOR

Missing Pieces

Carly Ann West

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

'Neighbor' is Nicky's story, who moves with his parents into a town with a burnt down amusement park. Across the street lives another twelve-year-old named Aaron, his parents, and his sister.

Two notes that set the tone at the beginning of this somewhat creepy novel are words of wisdom from Nick's parents: "Lu, he's twelve. He is barely human at this age," and "Remember, the family makes you stronger."

On the other side of the street lives the weak and disturbed family of Aaron Peterson. His father is living through a mental hell about what happened at the amusement park.

The two boys’ bond, break into the park using their unique ability to unlock locks, and, in another event, get into legal trouble costing their parents needed monies. Split apart, the boy with the strong family ties survives.

When Nicky tries to reunite with Aaron, Aaron leaves a bloody note for Nicky - I make bad things happen. What has happened? You will need to read book two in the series to find out.

I don't recommend this novel for a ten-year-old even though there are some excellent qualities to the read. A twelve-year-old may understand some of the deep thoughts and words intoned.

Note: I have helped bring up two boys who are doing well in their forties.

 

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