Review of LEGACY OF LIES

 

LEGACY OF LIES

A Legal Thriller

 

ROBERT BAILEY

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

How long can a lie stay a lie? In Mr. Bailey's novel, it is evident in the epilogue. Therefore, start at the beginning, and you will be as surprised as I was at the end of the story.

LEGACY is a story of many lies that come to light after a Tennessee Attorney General's arrest for killing her husband, a well-known lawyer.  Bo, Bocephus Haynes, comes out of self-imposed retirement, helping a cohort because of his legal dilemma.

As she is called in Tennessee, the General wants the best defense lawyer. That is Bo. He sees that the government has a solid case looking for an alternative that leads him into a web of lies, including the person he is defending.

Bocephus' case comes to a dead-end when the trial begins. He doubts the General's innocents but finds loopholes in what he has been told by all the people he has interviewed: The defendant, other lawyers, a commissioner, and a wealthy rapist.

Do many lawyers lie? In this novel, they do—a well-written thriller with a killer Epilogue.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/32HDJPa

 

 

 

Review of A KINGDOM'S COST

 

A KINGDOM'S COST

Book 1 of Historical Trilogy of Scotland

 

J. R. TOMLIN

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

War in the 1300s was all blood and guts. King Edward of England made sure of that when he raged war in Scotland.

Young Sir James, Lord of Douglas, tells how he grew up in the battles and trials of youth fighting alongside Scotland's king. His education is confirmed in book one with the murders of his enemies and a loved one.

The author writes details about the times' crudeness, down to the quartering of William Wallace, a Scottish hero. If you cannot handle this type of content, beware.

The historic story seemed to be as authentic as one can write a book of fiction. I liked the character's banter even though I had to go back to the glossary to find out the meaning of words said.

Reading this novel will give you an understanding of their fight for freedom. It is a difficult road taken against an outnumbered enemy, the Scottish Black Douglas battled.

J.R. Tomlin's writing flows well throughout. She put much time and effort into this novel, which made the historical journey worthwhile.

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

 

The SWEET Taste of MURDER

An Angel Lake Mystery

 

CEECEE JAMES

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

Elise, after a marriage breakup, moves home to Angel Lake. She reunites with her childhood friend Lavina.

Well conversing, they find out that a well-known man in the community has had a deadly accident with a train. Suspicion becomes rapid that it was not an accident but a murder.

Brad, a detective and an acquaintance of both women, comes on the scene, leading to Lavina being one of the murder suspects. He and Elise have a developing rapport as she goes about renewing herself with the community members.

In her walkabouts or runabouts, she collects some knowledge of the murdered man, trying to help eliminate her friend Lavina from Brad's and the Police Captain's list of suspects. She finds a few who could have done the deed, but a flower becomes the key to the crime.

Fast pace read that at times is cute and romantically tied. Even a cat and dog get into the act. Taste of Murder is a pleasant afternoon read for the beach, near the pool, or in your favorite chair.

Murder is a crisp, enjoyable read with no blood and guts.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3bHiu2Y

 

 

THE FLYING TIGERS

The Untold Story of the American Pilots

Who Waged a Secret War Against Japan

 

SAM KLEINER

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

The winners of wars write the history of them. Some stories of heroes are not because government leaders hide them to keep a political secret.

In this case, the Flying Tigers, a USA civilian group, contracted to a private corporation, were fighting for China against Japan. Their air battles didn't start until after Pearl Harbor destruction by the Japanese.

They became heroes because of their courageous outnumbered air battles against a formidable foe. Tigers were not military disciplined but were deliberate and meticulous trained to do the job by Claire Chennault.

Sam Kleiner's detailed history does not name all, who were the original contracted Tigers, but the brief bios of some give the reader a sense of war's human turmoil. Claire Chennault's story is the book's backbone; however, it is different from the movie with John Wayne.

Mr. Kleiner's writing brings out some of the conflicts between Chennault and his pilots, i.e., Pappy Boyington, later a Medal of Honor recipient. When the Tigers were forced to disband, all did not go well for his heroes, of which little is written.

This well-written history book is in novel form, which made reading it enjoyable. If you like history in action, this book is for you.

 

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3bGt9eh

 

Review of HER BUSH

 

HER BUSH

 

PENELOPE BLOOM

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

What can I say about HER BUSH? Funny and sexual are the first words that come to mind.

The novel is funny because of the plot. It is a young woman who accidentally performs topiary, sculpting a bush into a complete penis by mistake. Funny innuendos abound.

She does the work on the property of a wealthy publisher. They meet, and the courting games begin.

There are twists and turns in promoting HER BUSH as art and in their relationship. That commingling and art endeavor leads to a sexual and enjoyable ending.

This novel is the second that I have read of Ms. Blooms, of which there are many. The other was HIS BANANA.

Both novels are quick and fun reads. I will go back for more soon.

Purchase:  https://amzn.to/2Qzruxd

 

Review of AMERICAN WITCHES

AMERICAN WITCHES

A Broomstick Tour through Four Centuries

 SUSAN FAIR

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

This book is a humorous, lite historical evaluation of how one decided who or what a WITCH is or was. Ms. Fair tells us how the human race is gullible in a pleasant way.

She expands this theme in recounting stories from the Salem trials to Second Salem trials of Mary Baker Eddy, founder of Christian Science. In her explanations, the WITCH thing came from Europe during their dark ages, exacerbated by religious zealots, and provoked by some nut cases.

At times, I felt a little bored because I am not into WITCHES.  However, the overall stories she reported on were fun to read. Ms. Fair's prose made for an enjoyable quick read.

If you are interested in WITCHES, I know you will be earmarking each story for reference. I took a few notes for my review, as you should too.

Purchase:  https://amzn.to/2YvurmH

Review of The Widow's Son

 

THE WIDOW'S SON

 

DANIEL KEMP

 

Reviewed by Author Roy Murry

 

When you get a promotion, you would expect problems; hopefully, that can be solved with the help from your cohorts. In Patrick West's case, his predecessor, Geoffrey, is not upfront with the real situations at hand which he must confront in his new position.

From the first banter between these two spymasters, Geoffrey’s lies lead Patrick into a maze of international intrigue that elitists have festered. Many characters are involved in a diabolical conspiracy.

Sorting it out is Patrick's job as head of a British Joint Intelligence Committee. What he uncovers after finding out the truth, culminates into a near disaster.

This novel is the third in a trilogy, beginning with 'What Happened in Vienna Jack?' then, 'Once I Was a Soldier,' that I have read because of Mr. Kemp's grasp of English (UK) language. The tit for tat of the main character's lucid conversations kept me turning the pages to see what came next.

I love a conspiracy novel of fiction, particularly one that leads to an unpredictable ending. It would be best if you started by reading book one. However, this novel stands on its own.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3439mnu

 

 

Louisiana Hotshot

LOUISIANA HOTSHOT

A Talbar Wallis Mystery

JULIE SMITH

Review by Author Roy Murry

New Orleans is the background city for a heartbreaking and thrilling story with an explosive ending. Baroness, aka Talbar, aka Sandra, decides to become a private eye, a position she is overqualified to do.

She has cognitive skills and computer geek like abilities. Black, proud, and recherche', Talbar enters the man dominated profession as an associate of Eddie Valentino P.I. Agency.

A Black mother's complaint to a friend becomes a case. She and Eddie are paid to investigate.

The backdrop of the investigation is these characters themself. They both have family secrets that unfold and intertwine with the main plot.

The unraveling of the case and their secrets are done in detail. Each conquers their hurdles with emotional results. Talbar's shots a gun for the first time, remembering the past, and Eddie admits his faults were, regaining a son.

I found the narrative too long (353 pages), and feel a shorter version could have done the job for me. However, I did enjoy Talbar's and Eddie's banter throughout the novel.

The characters were well developed and increased my wanting for the next chapter in their career as Private Investigators. GOOD READ.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/33nRrHI

 

Review of ASSASSINS and LIARS

ASSASSINS and LIARS

CLR DOUGHERTY

Review by Author Roy Murry

Finn, a man, is on a mission for a government organization that meets Mary in a small Puerto Rican port. She needs a ride on his sailboat.

 Mary's looks, knowledge of sailing, and demeanor, enchants Finn. He agrees to take her along on his boat for the ride, even though she has no destination requirement. 

The journey is full of killings and lies. Both have their fill; however, Mary is full of lies. 'Who Finn is and who she is?' is the background moving the journey forward.

Finn and Mary's actions in a thrilling end, expose who they are - Assassins and Liars.

CLR Dougherty's quick pace novel keeps the reader's attention. I liked the sailing jargon, which he is knowledgeable and was the filler between Mary's explanations of why she was in the Caribbean.

If you like a thrilling sea journey with a mission, this enjoyable novel's reading will do for a rainy weekend.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/39xVOB0

 

Review of SOILED DOVES

SOILED DOVES

Prostitution In The Early West

 

ANNE SEAGRAVES

 

Review of Author Roy Murry

 

Is prostitution practiced in the USA today? Well, it was in the development of the country's frontier. A brothel was a mainstay in many growing cities in the west.

 "Although Abraham Lincoln freed the slaves in 1863, an even more corrupt form of slavery continued to exist in America for another 47 years - White Slavery," is noted in Ms. Seagraves' book. Unfortunately, sex slaves trafficking is still a problem worldwide, as confirmed in criminal arrests lately.

SOILED DOVES is a complete history of the women who unwittingly or volunteer giving sexual favors for money. The book is chuck full of ladies' background stories who did what they did to survive when there were five men to one woman available.

The read was clear and informative - a swift read. I loved the short stories of the women who helped conquer the frontier. They comfort the men in their needs and contributing to community welfare. 

This read will change your mind about legal versus illegal prostitution.

 

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3jsMh2K

 

Review of JEOPARDY IN JANUARY

JEOPARDY IN JANUARY

A Calendar Mystery

 

CAMILLA CHAFER

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

Sara is a librarian, and she loves her work, primarily where she works, the Calendar City Library. The building is one of the oldest buildings in Calendar, which she is actively protesting its destruction.

The story is upbeat, except for the murder of her recent employed assistant on the second floor of the library. The local detective is, as Sara, befuddled.

In a battle to keep the building open to the public, Sara is continually confronting the man who wants to raze it. His company wants to replace it with condos.

 On another level, she investigates the crime that put the library into the center of a treasure hunt. Also, another good-looking man has come into her life for pleasure.

The levels clash into a climax that the reader is looking for in a good mystery. The reader will cheer for Sara's conclusion, which she did not expect, nor does the reader.

It's a good start of a series where the few characters are defined. The city of Calendar's charm is played-out as a colorful background.

Ms. Chafer's story is somewhat predictable, with a few twists and turns. The writing and flow of words were agreeable and funny at times.

Well done, purchase: https://amzn.to/3fwEC0O

 

Author's Review: UNITED STATES OF SOCIALISM

UNITED STATES OF SOCIALISM

 

DINESH D'SOUZA

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

Is Socialism metastasizing in the United States of America? According to Mr. D'Souza, it has spread like wildfire into the Federal Government, universities, media, and the organizations intimidating cities and States.

This cancer is destroying the fabric of American history and culture that the country was built. And few are standing up and calling out the interlopers bringing sanity back into the fray.

The battle for the minds of the public is twisted into believing that Socialism is just. Mr. D'Souza defines it and destroys its philosophy economically and culturally.

He leads the reader through history as to the pros and cons of Capitalism vs. Socialism, naming the heroes and culprits past and present. He adds his legal encounter with the Deep State, run by a socialist-leaning girth of the government as an analogy.

If it can happen to him and the other people, he highlights the left disagrees with, and their strong-arm tactics will destroy the public and the country. If "We the People" do not fight back and take control, the USA will be the next Venezuela.

Strong words, but Mr. D'Souza outlines his case using clear cut examples. The writing is intelligent, a crisp narrative that points directly to his corrupt target: The Socialist.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/38Aw5as

  

Review of THE JADE EMPEROR

THE JADE EMPEROR

 SUZANNE JENKINS

 Review by Author Roy Murry

 Young men go off to war, and when they come back, that experience changes them. Steve left Kelly and a child behind with her parents.

Vietnam's life turned Steve into an introvert. Kelly, a strong-minded person, knew what she wanted - a large family.

In reaching her goal, she took control while Steve became disconnected over the thirty-plus-year marriage. The reason did not become apparent until one day when a man showed up at the front door claiming to be Steve's son.

From that point on, Kelly's family started to deteriorate; chaos took over. Steve was in love, not with her, but Lee, the man's mother, and some of their six children seemed to be dysfunctional.

 Kelly's twin complained things might have been different had Steve sought help when he returned from Vietnam. Or if Kelly was a weaker person or listened to the people who loved her about Steve. 

Conflicts turned into fights and one attempt of murder. Coming together after that event, Kelly's family healed somewhat.

 Ms. Jenkins' tangled web of relationship novel is a drama that keeps the reader engaged. Her well-written prose helps turn the page to find out the next layer of conflict.

A delightful and captivating read.  Purchase: https://amzn.to/2YLPty2

Review of GOOD WITCH HUNTING

GOOD WITCH HUNTING

A Mackenzie Coven Mystery Novella

SONIA PARIN

Reviewed by Author Roy Murry

A mystery, yes, but more like a comedy skit. Lexie is a witch, who seems to be in training. She has a black cat, Luna, who is a witch with limited powers.

The two of them talk to each other. Luna only allows some people to hear her words of logic. She is also Lexie's muse.

Someone is killing good witches. The reader does not see the murders verbally but hears about them secondhand. Lexie is on the list according to current investigations by an independent organization.

The shenanigans going on will have the reader laughing on every page. Lexie is an investigator who uses unusual methods.

Lexie, in one moment, has no idea what is going on, and in the next, a poof of smoke, the crimes are solved.  She used witchcraft she hadn't used before.

Ms. Parin's writing is fun to read: crisp, clear, silly, and hilarious. I will go back and read another of her novellas. You should read one also.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3dhK3yR

Review of FULL CIRCLE

FULL CIRCLE

Willow Bend Romances

MONA INGRAM

Reviewed by 

Author Roy Murry

'It was an overcast the day Bella found out she was pregnant.' is the first sentence of this tearjerker. The circle is Bella's journey after said event.

The highs and lows on Bella's trip through life keeps the reader pulled into the story. A strong-willed woman appears to arrive with one link to the circle, not complete - her love of a mate.

She has compassion and good energy all around her: her daughter, and friends. Success creeps into her life, but something is missing since the day referred to in that first sentence.

When the events happen, the missing links complete Bella's life. The reader will need a box of tissues at that moment.

Ms. Ingram’s writing is crisp and commits the reader to find out what comes next. The read is quick and flows smoothly.

Bella's life is the basis for the beginning of a series. For Romance Lovers, it is one series to buy.

 

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2UF5mnk

Review of ONE MORE THING

ONE MORE THING

Stories and Other Stories

B.J. NOVAK

Reviewed by Author Roy Murry

 

You have an Inquisitive Mind if you are reading this. I thank you, and B.J. Novak will thank you for buying his book; after all, he is a New York Times Best Selling Author.

Anyways that is why I bought his book of short stories. Some so quick they are two or three lines which make you think or maybe not and get bored.

 If bored, you don't have an Inquisitive mind. Wake up your brain and buy the book.

 I could give you a list of the stories and delve into what I think, but I would be wasting your time. Watch my video to learn more: https://youtu.be/xCuY8UUR5_o

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3hbm8Es

 

A WEDDING TO DIE FOR

A WEDDING TO DIE FOR:

A Fun Detective Cozy

(The Alvarez Family Murder

Mystery Series, Book 2)

 

HEATHER HAVEN

If you love mysteries as I do, this story hits all the items we enjoy in a good murder/detective story. WEDDING has a super sleuth, a family member locked up for killing a victim, and an impressive supporting cast.

 Mira's betroth Carlos's hands are on the murder weapon, and their wedding planner, family member, Private Detective Liana Alvarez investigates. With the family's company of characters, the case turns into a Mexican adventure leading to a bigger problem.

 Liana, and mother, who is President of Discretionary Inquiries, fly across the border, and the mystery unravels on the property of Carlos' family. The game begins, and Liana returns to the USA to find the solution leading to a close encounter deadly ending.

 Ms. Haven's writing is crisp, funny, and is an adventure the reader will enjoy in one or two sittings, preferably with a glass of wine or, in my case, two double Dewars on the rocks. I love a quick read, and you should, too, if you like a good mystery.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3eyELA1

 

Review of The PAPER MAGICIAN

The PAPER MAGICIAN

CHARLIE N. HOLMBERG

Review by Author Roy Murry

Not Alice in Wonderland, however, the main character Ceony, a Paper Magician's apprentice, falls into the heart of the magician. And the life and death games begin.

Depending on Ceony's performance in a world unknown to her, Magician Thane's life is figuratively in her hands. But his heart is in another place literally.

Paper Magician is a horror story involving a man's life. Ceony sees it from within his heart's function. How it ends depends on her feelings for him as a man, not as her mentor in paper magic.

The ending will surprise the reader. It's is magic after all, even if the form is paper. Paper overrules scissors.

Ms. Holmberg's writing flows fast but confusing at times. One has to be on their toes and quick to understand many caveats of Ceony's endeavors and the Paper Magician's heart’s events.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2TG0Rsc

Review of SAFARI

SAFARI

Tony Park

Review by Author Roy Murry

SAFARI is the first novel that I have read with the background of Southern Africa (Zimbabwe and the The Democratic Republic of Congo.) Mr. Park's descriptions of lands, animals, and human traits bring you into the hunt.

The prey in the hunts will lead the reader into an alarming shock. However, the novel is a little bit wordy with an interwoven love story that changes with the new knowledge of the woman involved in the triangle.

Pouching and killing of rare African animals are the central themes of SAFARI and a county's dividing line as to who can hunt and what will die in those endeavors. The killing zone is theirs, and if you cross the line, the government or representatives will get revenge.

I wouldn't say SAFARI is a page-turner, but the author keeps the reader interested with sub-stories of two women. One of them becomes an unknowing hero when the plot thickens at the end of a hunt—her love for a particular animal.

I purchased another of Mr. Park's books and am looking forward to reading it. You should add one to your library also for the thrill of learning a little about Africa.

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

Review of HOW THE HELL DID THIS HAPPEN?

HOW THE HELL DID THIS HAPPEN

The Election of 2016

P.J. O'Rourke

Reviewed by Author Roy Murry

"We're so stoned that we have no idea what we're talking about, but if you get as high as we are, it will all make sense," babblings of Yuppies. This quote is in Mr. O'Rourke's Book Epilogue, and I believe it is appropriate to say that he babbles much in this fun read.

P.J. O'Rourke, National Lampoon's ex-editor-in-chief among numerous other Journalism endeavors since the 70s, writes enthusiastically and excessively about the candidates who attempted to become President of the USA in 2016. I laughed so hard my stitches almost busted.

He equates all the contenders as to clowns stuck in a Volvo Bug car trying to get out. When that long event is over, Hillary and Trump are what is left.

This pundit does not have kind words for either. He uses sarcasm, hyperbolic descriptions, and antidotes to bring his point home - we are left with President Trump, who embodies American's current taste vs. elitism.

P.J. muses, "If America didn't want a poor choice of leaders, America wouldn't have a poor choice of leaders." I believe he is saying Mr. Trump is a weak leader, and the USA has had many of them.

In delving into previous Presidents, he qualifies many of them and the wannabes like Joe Biden. Therefore, if you time to spare, want to laugh, or think about your preferred politician, this book is for you.

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

Review iof Ancient Lies

ANCIENT LIES

E. Nicolson

Reviewed by Author Roy Murry

I will leave it to you. What recent lies equate to Ancient Lies, the book? You will have to read the novel to find out.

Hardcore Science Fiction and fans of Star Wars will enjoy this adventure. I, not a follower, read the whole book with only one problem.

Even though name recognition separated the episodes, I would have liked to place and timeline division. However, the writing is well thought out. 

Lovers of Sci-Fi will like all the gadgets and the different spaceships - new and ancient. But people are the same in the future.

Ms. Nicolson gives us her philosophy on racism, here and now, conspiracy theories, good vs. evil, and what our future entails.

These all come together at the end of the book when Professor Andy, a Shakespearian teacher, sums up present-day events.

Really. Do Aliens live among us? Andy's friends are traveling into Outer space.

You need to read this novel to find out the Who, What, When, and How this all comes together with excellent detail. 

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

Review of Caliphate Ave.

Caliphate Ave.

Leilani Graceffa

Review by Author Roy Murry

I have no idea why this story is titled Caliphate Ave. I have read it twice, and the story is compelling but has nothing relating to the Muslim caliphate.

I like reading well written short stories every once in a while. This gripping description of debauchery leads the reader into a discussion about someone we know, maybe a pedophile. When something affects one’s family, we take action.

Bradley's young sister finds a USB, and she thinks it's a bug; the story begins. What is on the unit is shocking; he does not identify any faces until it's too late and does not convey his findings to anyone.

His sister is ecstatic; she is going to meet her idle. Bradley has agreed to take her to the event before seeing the complete video events of disgusting endeavors with a face he recognizes.

The idles face is in the USB's videos. He takes her to the event. What happens next will surprise the reader.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2W7fZiV

Review of YOUTUBE SECRETS

YOUTUBE SECRETS

Sean Cannell & Benji Travis

To get around YouTube.com, this guide into that world is full of tidbits that will help a newbie YouTubers start in the right direction. I am a newbie, at 72 years old today, and learned a great deal.

The directions I received help me find ideas I will use in the future. I did not need their pep talk because I was already motivated and produced forty-three videos as of this review. Also, I love the concept of those videos - helping people decide on purchasing a book by giving them a proper book review.

This book includes biographic material that explains their reasoning one should use a concept. These concepts should help reach one's goals as a Youtuber if they use them.

Many of the concepts in this book will help a newbie. However, I recommend watching Sean and Benji's videos to expand on them.

Not a complete understanding of YouTube success, the ideas within are the basis to start vlogging. And one must start somewhere.

The writing is easy to read and follow, but not for seasoned YouTubers. The authors' ideas are not difficult to understand, but just the beginning.

#purchase: https://amzn.to/2VSSQRc

Review of BURDEN OF TRUTH

A Cass Leary Legal Thriller

ROBIN JAMES

Review by Author Roy Murry

Not Perry Mason, but Cass Leary has her act together. She is a litigator who gets the job done.

Cass returns to her home town, taking on a murder case of a sports icon. The criminal is a nineteen-year petite young lady who is half the size of the murder victim, who is a six-three-foot, high school basketball coach.

Slut is just one of the names of the teen who is going through an emotional rollercoaster ride.  She believes another did the deed; she is a victim of sexual assault; she confesses to the murder.

Cass Leary must overcome these factors and her emotional baggage, family troubles, and historical background in the big city she practiced law to defend a young girl she believes is innocent.

With the whole town against her and the client, the dramatic trial begins with no hope in sight - the slut is guilty. The verdict goes to the jury, and then a wrench is put in the case's process, which erupts into chaos.

The story layout is well-defined with highs and lows, twists and turns, and an ending that will leave the reader wanting more. The author reveals Cass's next case at the end of this one, and it looks like another page-turner.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2yuRYu4

Review of Legally Yours

LEGALLY YOURS

Spitfire Trilogy, Book 1

NICOLE FRENCH

Review by Author Murry

Ms. French's novel is an entangled romance between (Spitfire) redhead Skylar and billionaire Brandon. The way they meet is unusual and embarrassing for Skylar and comfort to Brandon's eyes - he is smitten.

From that moment on, he tries his best to show his caring for her but makes classic errors. At each turn, she lays into him with verbal spitfire.

However, makeup-sex is so good that it keeps the relationship going until the L-word is said. That changes with the appearance of another woman.

He explains, and they are at it again sexually. Then another hurdle is written in a legal contract that is Skylar's last straw - it's over.

This relationship is a rollercoaster ride with sex in the highs and depression for both in the lows. At the end of book #1, Ms. French does her job - she hooks the reader into book #2 with a life-changing event on Skylar's graduation date from Harvard Law School. 

Well written. Free: https://amzn.to/2K626Ms

Review of INTELLIGENCE and SOCIETY

INTELLECTUALS AND SOCIETY

Thomas Sowell

Review by Author Roy Murry

Most of my friends and followers will not purchase this book, but they should if they have an inquisitive mind and willing to pay for it.

I & S is a textbook stylebook about how much of the intelligentsia affected history.

The Intellectual Elite pushed their agendas on society because they believed their ideas were correct, and everyone else was not. Mr. Sowell goes back into USA history and explains the impact of these ideas that confused society, moving it many times in the wrong direction, i.e., the Vietnam war and conflicts prior.

His dissertation explains many intellectual theories, concepts, and thoughts that became groupthink, many of which do not work in our society today. These ideas are throwbacks of another era that did not work then.

Explaining Karl Marx's intellectual elaboration misconceptions vs. Adam Smith's economic theories, Mr. Sowell boils it down to Intellectuals produce ideas, not results as an engineer will. If the engineer messes up, the bridge will fall. However, the intellectual will not pay the price for his errors.

I will leave you with this quote from the introduction of Intellectuals and Society: INTELLIGENCE MINUS JUDGEMENT EQUALS INTELLECT.

There is so much in this book; it is a challenge to write a review of all Mr. Thomas Sowell's ideas.

The read is easy to follow. However, the reader must put on a thinking cap.

I will leave it there for now. My Live-stream video on the subject reveals more. Video at Youtube.com Author Roy Murry (No 'a' in name.)

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2wvQP4N

Review of A VEIL REMOVED

           A VEIL REMOVED
A Henrietta and Inspector Howard Novel

Review by Author Roy Murry

Henrietta and Howard return from their honeymoon because of the death of Howard's father, the patriarch of a wealthy Clive family. No one believes his death was other than an accident.

"A Veil Removed' is book four in a five-novel series. Therefore, I have no idea how Henrietta and Howard meet. However, the author gives the reader hints as to the two different worlds from which they came.

Elsie, Henrietta's sister, love involvements, schooling, and social life, take center stage to the mystery of Howard's father's death and the mob business that led to it. But, when H and H get down to investigating, the plot thickens.

The 1930s background, and how wealthy people lived then added to the novel's distinct and colorful language brought the characters alive. Boy, life has changed since then.

The writing is fashionable to the time, which gives the reader a laugh once in a while. The story, however, lacks the mystery I usually enjoy - my fault.

I should have started with book one in the series. From the author's description of Henrietta and Howard, in this book, I believe the mysteries they solved in the novels one through four are worthy.

I will buy book one in the series, as should you.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2UX3fef

Book 1: A Girl Like You https://amzn.to/2JD3ZQu

Review of FROM THIS MOMENT ON

FROM THIS MOMENT

DEBRA CLOPTON

Review by Author Roy Murry

Grant arrives in Windswept Bay. He meets Cali Sinclair, one of the owners of the resort. He is to paint a few murals.

It is a setup neither Grant nor Cali comprehend at the moment they meet. Sparks fly when they enjoy the beauty and sound of the oceanfront resort and journeys around the area so that he can get inspiration for the murals.

Both have psychological baggage to overcome - Cali a broken marriage and Grant the death of friends. It takes a while for each to confide in each other with the gentle pushing of the Sinclair family.

The story is simple - boy meets girl. She is beautiful, and he is gorgeous. And, the environment is conducive for enjoying life.

There are not any significant conflicting moments in this story, just a crescendo of enjoyment with considerate self-evaluations by each. It is their gut-wrenching pasts that brings Grant and Cali together.  

The writing is enjoyable; the characters are few, and the background description is colorful - an excellent read for one sitting.

Review of Rancour

RANCOUR

PETE BRASSETT

Review by Author Roy Murry

The statement 'A gripping murder mystery' is a true one. This story set on the west coast of Scotland was more than intriguing. It keeps the reader wanting more.

The characters Detective Inspector (Retired) James Munro and his prodigy DI Charlie West, a female in charge of solving two murders, combine in their way to get to the facts. He uses methods outside the box, and she follows the system using her guts.

The way the Scottish do things and the banter of the police group, according to Brassett's writing, shows a strong bonding among officers. The predominantly written dialogue is fun to read, like calling a woman, dearly, a "hen.'

The murder investigations seem to be going in the right direction. Then Munro pops in, and West sees them in a new light with a few little nudges from her ex-boss.

A book eight in this series, the plot, the characters, and the style read as a complete individual novel without using background information to update the reader. Therefore, I enjoyed the conversations, people, and a mystery with no clutter.

Brassett nicked it or in the USA language - he nailed it.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/392wkKk

Review of CHILD OF WATER

CHILD OF WATER

Book One of Heirs of Anarchy

G. Lawrence

Review by Author Roy Murry

'It is the continuation of the story that matters, not poor shades left behind,' is thought of Matilda, Lady of the English. The daughter of Henry I, the woman who wages war against men for a throne.

G. Lawrence writes this memoir of the English aged regent in the first person, telling her life's journey in a man's world. The words and thoughts of Matilda do not ring well against male domination in eleven hundred ten.

At age eight, she is married to the Holy Roman Emperor, where her education into regal life begins. Taught in their ways, she excels and learns how to use the power of the throne.

On the way to adulthood, Matilda spouts words of wisdom in colorful and intelligent ways. G. Lawrence writes those words that sing truths that apply today but did not then.

The turmoil’s the Empress lives with she overcomes in the Empire, but there comes a time when she must return to England. Life as a woman begins again until she is heir to the English throne. Or does it?

Matilda's words are musical and will stay with the reader throughout this enjoyable journey of the Lady's life. G. Lawrence has done an excellent job in combining History, Philosophy, and Renaissance of 12th-century norms into a pleasant novel. 

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2U3IRrm

Review of The Dead Game

THE DEAD GAME

SUSANNE LEIST

Review by Author Roy Murry

A whirlwind starts this paranormal cum vampire novel.  A house consumes a family of four, and the reader is left hanging in the thrilling prologue.

Linda moves into the town five years later and sets up shop meeting with what she believes are like-kind individuals, her friends. Among them is a man Todd who is a leader and not what he seems to be.

The group goes to a party at the consuming house, which has a secret history, and all hell breaks out - THE DEAD GAME begins. Who's who - vampire or not becomes the theme when the game starts.

The twist and turns of the novel are fast and thrilling. The list of players is many and range from local non-combatants to international villains - The Dead.

The writing is crisp. The characters are many—however, there is the main underlying attraction between Linda and Todd will lead the reader to the sequel.

I recommend getting both in The Dead Game story and read to the end.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2v2p8zR

Review of The Carter Street Hangman

The Carter Street Hangman

A Charlotte and Thomas Pitt Novel

ANNE PERRY

Review by Author Roy Murry

A serial killer is garotting young women on Carter street in 1881. When a maid in Charlotte's house dies the same way, Inspector Thomas Pitt comes into her life.

The vicar (pastor) of the local church, whom Charlotte dislikes, comes to the house to preach about sin. The ones sinning, he intimates the women and, of course, the killer.

Man's sin is different from women in those days. Proper women should not be out after dark -very improper in those days.

These and other sins were discussions of the families, vicar, and wife, but mostly between Charlotte and Pitt. Thomas Pitt interviews everyone on Carter Street, looking for the man garotting the women.

The person is difficult to find by the police, five killings in all until Charlotte and Pitt have a conversation that leads to a shocking ending. The sin hits home at the place one would not believe.

It was a good read. However, the hangman writer left me hanging.

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