Review of BOTTLING IT

 

Bottling It

(A Wayfair Witches' Cozy Mystery #1)

A.A. ALBRIGHT

Review by Author Roy Murry

Wanda Wayfair, an unempowered witch, earns her stripes in this first novel of a fun witches' mystery. The story is a family affair.

Interwoven into the case of murders (Humans are murdering Witches?) are warlocks, vampires, werewolves and the solution is on the funny side of the paranormal. During the investigation of a weak mystery, Wanda's witchy powers develop, helping in the case of the 'Bottling it.'

The background is Dublin, Ireland. However, I did not get an Irish feeling, but the series is a long one, and maybe in those books, a bit more or the culture will arise.

The characters and background stories are progressive enough to keep the reader interested, moving on to Book 2. The writing was enjoyable, but I did not hear the Irish dialect, making the story more interesting.

If you like a fun cozy mystery series with a twist, this is for you.

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

 

 

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 LOST CONNECTIONS

 

LOST CONNECTIONS

Why You're Depressed

and How to Find Hope

 

JOHANN HARI

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

Having had PTSD since Vietnam, I decided to read this book. My VA psychiatrists thought I was unreasonable because I believe Big Pharma and the Government concerning antidepressants are out to confuse us. Needless to say, I never took any of their pills - long story.

Mr. Hari, in the first half of his dissertation tells how there is no chemical brain imbalance to warrant taking a pill, confirming my knowledge. He explains the biological, psychological, and sociological reasons and solutions for depressions and how people and groups overcame them.

Then, in his cures, he goes rogue by describing a group saving process, which I know is liberal in his devotion and explanation: universal basic income. I have lived on the Seminole Reservation in Hollywood, Florida, for four years with friends. I can honestly say Mr. Hari is delusional with his socialistic justifications for UBI.

I will say, though, Mr. Hari's writing and research through most of the book were well written and to the point. Although to alleviate your depression, I recommend reading any good book with a drink or two and or a dog to pet as part of your cure.

Add meeting with good friends to the equation, and you are on your way to somewhat of a happy life. 

It was my solution.

Purchase: https://amzn.to/30wpomy

 

 

Review of HIDDEN JUSTICE

 

HIDDEN JUSTICE

 

KING & WRIGHT

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

From the beginning of this novel to the end, the reader will believe Mel and Frank, the two main characters, are nuts. Mel is a lady active detective, while Frank is a retired one from the same sheriff's department.

Frank's story is horrendous, and he is searching for closure in his neighbor's homes literally.  Mel believes Frank is the main actor in his crime story, the rest of the department knows Frank, and he could never do what Mel, in her gut, believes.

Both characters know they will prove they are right. Frank, in this delving, comes across events that Mel is certain Frank has committed. She is out to get him for HIS crimes.

Those events come to a deadly conclusion where Frank pulls the trigger. Mel gives him a pass because she realizes his nature is contrary to what she believed.

The writing is fast-paced with thrilling twists and turns at the right moments, keeping the reader engaged.

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

 

Review of REDUCE RANSOM

 

REDUCED RANSOM

Hotshot Series #1

 

MIKE FARICY

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

Micky and Dell agree to kidnap women. It's is Micky's idea, and he convinces Dell, his friend since childhood.

New at being criminals, a la Mutt and Jeff, and not the sharpish pencils in the box, proceed to kidnap their first woman, Janice. She is the step-daughter of a man who tormented Micky and Dell, when they were young, He is a wealthy criminal type with hidden cash.

The events leading to and after this original kidnapping is not Micky and Dell's control. It leads to them receiving the ransom and Micky finding himself in a romantic situation.

So, the morons, as Janice calls them, commit two more crimes that have near disaster and funny developments. That last kidnap victim's payee is a bonified mafioso and arrives at the payment site with guns blazing.

The explosive ending will have the reader surprised and laughing at the same time. The story does not end there.

To find out why you need to read this well-written comical relief. Mr. Faricy keeps your funny bone alive.

 

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2NpJ34H

Review of ONCE UPON A RHYME

 

ONCE UPON A RHYME: One Week, Three Lives, Three Deaths a Lifetime in Limericks

 

ANTONY L. SARAGAS

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

'Short, Sweet, and to the Point' is how I describe this novel. It is chock full of phrases you will want to read repeatedly, ala Og Mandino: The Greatest Success in the World and many others. INSPIRATIONAL.

Oskie and Bella's father died and left their home to them. Oskie, with son in toe, investigates the building, finding a book of limericks.

At this point in Oskie's life is in a rut, dilemmas he has not confronted, freeing himself to fully live his life.  With the help of friends, family, and his father's pasted down wisdom, he rewrites his future.

Hollis, a coach, states in one of his limericks to his son Oskie, 'We can never attain perfection in our lives, but we shall catch excellence along the way.' Will Oskie curtail with this type of inspiration?

The prose of Mr. Antony was smooth and easy to follow. If you need an uplift in your life, this read is you, as it was for me.

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

 

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 MURDER REVISITED

 

MURDER REVISITED

 A Jack Mallory Mystery, Bk 1

 

WILLIAM COLEMAN

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

Columbo, step aside for Detective Mallory. Peter Falk played Columbo, a homicide detective in the famous TV series by the same name.

Jack Mallory has the same position in a small urban city. His chief gives him a twenty-year-old case to solve.

This case mushrooms into three without the chief or any other police's knowledge, even to the end. Jack finds the threads that connect all by interviewing, infuriating, and disobeying orders.

I did not pick up on the connections until the final scene, which I usually do in most mysteries I read. Jack knew most of the people he interviewed, so he had inside knowledge. LOL

Not. Jack did excellent police work, and the author was smart enough to hide the evidence in his writing from the average reader. 

If you want a mystery challenge, this book is for you. The narrative kept me turning the pages, and Jack Mallory is prime time TV or excellent series reading.

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

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.

Purchase:  https://amzn.to/39VBuM0

 

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.

Purchase:  https://amzn.to/3fKdkVH

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.

 

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

 

Review of ANNO 2020

 

ANNO 2020

JAMES MORCAN

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

Mr. Morcan writes detailed stories of people living in 2020, dealing with the world pandemic and economic perils. Each story is emotionally complicated, crisscrossing the world connecting on a human level using present-day technology.

Elijah, one of the main characters, asks near the end of this well-written novel, 'Will this year eventually end up being viewed as some kind of new beginning?  Or else the beginning of The End?'

All characters come to their new beginnings or end with newly founded beliefs. Their journeys involve a wide range of decisions that must overcome political, psychological, and philosophical barriers.

This intense novel keeps the reader's attention to multiply dilemmas developing. The end brings them all together in a surprising connection.

Well done, Mr. Morcan, for the first solo novel. I read FIJI, reviewed August 5, 2018, with your father Lance as co-author. https://bit.ly/35guZRo

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2Ue8mH1

 

 

 

 

 

 

Review of I'm Your Emotional Support Animal

 

I'm Your Emotional 

Support Animal

 

ADAM CAROLLA

Review by Author Roy Murry

Mr. Carolla has his unique way of punctuating a point many times, using vulgarity. However, when the point is made, the reader should understand it.

"This book will remind you that you should also be amused." --Tucker Carson. That being the absurdity of the way American psychologically goes about living.

Mr. Carolla begins with his philosophy about why support dogs in airports and on airplanes have mushroomed to ridiculous levels. He ends with the #MeToo and the China Virus Panic (My phraseology).

In between those mentioned above, comments on Trump's evolution, academia nuts, and many other items that annoy his sense of what is right or wrong with our society. You may disagree with Mr. Carolla's opinion, but you will laugh at how he phrases the dialogue.

 

Controversial and funny.

 

Purchase: https://amzn.to/2I5BFZV

Review of PREY for THE DEAD

 

PREY for THE DEAD

 

SUSANNE LEIST

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

The small oceanside town Oasis is not an Oasis. "I am sure Sean feels the same way. Vamps and hybrids...Elders and Watchers...this town is a crazy hotspot for the paranormal." Keith, a visitor, grunted, is a quote from PREY.

This novel is the second in THE DEAD GAME series, which I have read. THE DEAD and Wolf, a vampire, has returned to Oasis to save his family. A war is brewing.

Among the participating main characters are two humans, Linda and Shana. They have their infatuations with vamps and hybrids, which they pursue, and are in the warring center of two fractions lead by Todd and Gregg.

Both are in love with Linda. Shana has Sam, or maybe. Protection of the lady humans is the utmost concern of the vamps when the battle starts with many turns in the adventure.

It is a fun fictional book to read. In the end, the diehard reader of this genre will want more. Lucky for them, there is a third book in the series.

It is better to read the first book in the series THE DEAD GAME, which hooked me. Review: https://youtu.be/8L1g3zHJp-A Written http://bit.ly/2VTz0Hc

Purchase PREY for THE DEAD: https://amzn.to/2HRw74P

Review of MR. LOVE

 

MR. LOVE

A Romantic Comedy

 

SALLY MASON

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

This book hit my funny bone in the right way. I laugh every time I think of the plot, characters, and how opposites attract.

Gordon unusually meets Jane, a Literary agent. She is hunting another person, a woman, and finds Gordy, a man who uses Viola Usher as a pseudonym for his racy novel.

He self-publishes digitally, and it has gone viral, making Gordy a lot of money. Agents are going crazy trying to find Viola to sign her to a book deal. Jane is the only one who finds him/her.

But Gordon, who wants to sell his American Novel (Trash), convinces his sister to be Viola. And the fun begins - twists and turns that bring a "Pompous and liar," Gordy and, sweet, diligent Jane together.

The writing is intelligent, with funny and literary conversations bringing out Jane, Gordon, and his sister Betsy's real character.

Purchase:   https://amzn.to/3mukIH4

 

Review of MURDER at CATMMANDO MOUNTIAN

 

MURDER at CATMMANDO MOUNTAIN

George Shaw Cozy Mystery #1

 

ANNA CELESTE BURKE

 

Review by Author Roy Murry

 

At a major animal theme park, known as the "Cat Factory," the owner's daughter is murdered. Jack Wheeler, detective, and Georgia Shaw, PR Director of the park, combine their resources to solve the crime.

However, evidence points to Georgia as the suspect, which confuses Jack's case. Things do not match the crime scene's modus operandi, and Georgia was not on the property during the time frame.

Jack does his due diligence, interviews everyone, and finds time to woo Georgia. Circumstances unravel the crime, leading to a closure. The reader will be content and will want more of the series.

There are many twists and turns in this quick-paced fun novel. The reader will keep turning the pages until the conclusion.

The characters are interesting, with some crazies included. Lastly, if you like cats, Georgia owns one, and they are part of the theme park.

 It's almost Purrrfect for cat lovers.

 Purchase: https://amzn.to/35pDNTV