Once again, modern technology it my bug-a-boo. Only I could not perform a simple copy and paste. Luckily, I'm not easily frustrated. Well, maybe. Okay, moving on. Tammy Schweiger the great reviewer at Ravenz Reviews is running an special for the 12 days of Christmas. She spent a lot of time putting together the interview for the twelve lucky authors she chose. So please, if you get a chance, stop by and check out the wonderful tribute she is currently posting. Here is the link. Oh, I'm day five. http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&sqi=2&ved=0CDQQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fravenzreviews.blogspot.com%2F&ei=iJ7OUMGzFYyXqAGyn4CwCw&usg=AFQjCNHZ4PIWMFgxfz4y8GmvjChMFmS-ww&sig2=THWe1zdJpuXh73BthNl23w&bvm=bv.1355325884,d.b2U

Have a wonderful week!

Good morning all!!! Looks like it's going to a wonderful Thanksgiving in North Texas this year. I hope eveyone is dong well and will be spending good times with friends and family over the festive holiday.

If you have the time after a full belly of fine food and arent' too exhausted from the coming shoping spree, stop by and check out the interview and NEW book trailer for Occupation from renown book reviewer Joey PInkney.

Have a great and safe weekend.

http://h1t.it/UbGwnT

http://youtu.be/1I8VCBr_ePY

Over the last few months I've had the great pleasure to be introduced to many new and exciting authors from Jim Burkett to Regina Puckett. In between them are Alex Lukeman, Norma Budden, Micheal Rivers and host of others. Today, I want spotlight Norma Budden. The first book I read of hers was Hershey Falls. It is a very moving story as are most of hers. Norma writes from her soul and holds nothing back. For you gals who have endured great hardships and heartaches from abusive relationships, you will enjoy her stories. Have a great weekend!

Hershey Falls
http://www.amazon.com/Hershey-Falls-ebook/dp/B006TQV526/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1353160127&sr=8-2&keywords=Norma+Budden

Touching

This is a very short story followed by a most thought provoking dialogue from the author. I can relate to this story in that I lost the love of my life to cancer back in 2009. How does one carry on after a tragic loss? Will they ever be able to open their heart again and let the feelings of love and warmth replace the emptiness that ways so heavy on the heart and in the soul? The answer? You'll have to get a copy for that determination.

Very enjoyable.

Abduction

Parents worse nightmare

http://www.amazon.com/Abduction-Second-Chances-Short-ebook/dp/B0098AP05I/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1353160127&sr=8-4&keywords=Norma+Budden

This a real quick read. As a parent, this one of our worse nightmares; one of our children being kidnapped. Norma does a good job of relating the fears a parent feels when a child goes missing. The plot however far fetched, sends a message. What would you do if you noticed a child acting odd around adults? Would you question the child or the parents? Would you go about your daily activities and shrug the incident off as a child not getting their way, or would you notify the authorities? Those are the tough questions she addresses.

 

She has since released three other books I haven't had the opportunity to read yet. The TBR is growing at an alarming rate.

Saw a post this morning on FB about the disease which took three very dear people I spent many wonderful days together, My partner, Larry Smith (1990), my father Ralph Dawson (2005) and my one true love Debbie Beck Larson. Not a day goes by I don't reflect back and remember all of the fond times I spent with these three. Most of the memories are fond, but yes, there are the sad ones that keep resurfacfing reminding me how much I really miss and loved them. Below is a poem I wrote about Debbie a few years ago. It is the opening for the book I wrote about our thirty year love. In those thrity years, Debbie and I spent only two years together. Year and a half in high school and her last seven months. So why is it a thirty year love affair? I never forgot her and once every ten years I would strike out ot find her.Love is worth a second chance.

Where Have You Gone?

I remember those care free days,

The girlish happy smile,

The days of high school,

Where only our love mattered.

The bus rides to the games and back,

Trips to the river bridge where our thoughts were one,

The nights filled of passion in the truck,

The moonlight dancing off our sweat covered bodies,

Where have you gone?

Our paths parted in a sea of tears,

The hurt, the pain of the past,

Always just under the surface,

A flash of sunlight, a familiar smile met with pain and hostility.

The smile vanishes, the pain and hurt boil up,

Yet the feelings of love never lost just suppressed,

Where have you gone?

A trip to Tulsa,

A business card in a mailbox,

A phone call two weeks later and the past awakens,

The smile, the pain, the hurt, the memories;

pour in like a raging river out of its' banks.

Is it worth the chance?

Is it worth opening the heart again?

Is it worth another trip to the unknown?

Where have you gone?

The smile is the same,

The feelings of love spring up,

The past is forgotten,

The present and future are all that matter,

Or is it?

Where have you gone?

Seven months of life together,

We laugh, we cry, we love,and we kiss,

Chasing children, sharing their lives,

Strawberry shake in the face,

Movies from a Galaxy long ago,

Steaks, chicken and seasonings,

grilled to perfection with love,

A snowball fight,

A walk in the white soft flakes,

A pause on the sidewalk,

We embrace, kiss long and deep

letting our bodies provide the warmth.

Where have you gone?

The diagnosis, it's back.

Consoling the daughters,

A call to the parents,

A call to the EMT'S,

The present and the future are slipping away.

Where have you gone?

The final hours of life,

Only the sounds of deep painful breathing.

The halls are silent,

Nothing but thoughts for thirty years circle.

The end is closing in,

The cancer is tracking its' deadly course.

Where have you gone?

A warm hand rubs a chest going cold,

The breathing has stopped.

The pain is flowing out of her face.

The Doctor comes in,

The verdict is quiet with compassion,

I'm so sorry, she's gone.

Where have you gone?

Life has come to a stop,

There is nothing that matters anymore.

A never forgotten love has been taken in the prime of life,

A bench in a cemetery with no one else around.

The tears pour uncontrollably,

We cry, “Where have you gone?”

A voice, soft and tender floats down,

“I'm fine.”

“Where have I gone?”

“Where there is no pain, no sadness.

A place where the cancer has healed.

A place where mistakes of the past have been forgiven,

A place where I can look down to watch and help.

A place where only love resides,

The place?

"Heaven, that is where I have gone.”

 

http://www.amazon.com/Loves-True-Second-Chance-ebook/dp/B004PYDG30/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1352905305&sr=1-1&keywords=jeff+dawson

Sometime ago I sat down and attempted to write a poem worthy of all our veterans from the Revolution to present day conflicts. I hope I've done them justice.

Remembering

So young,

So full of life.

Their dreams would have to wait.

They took up arms when called.

They vowed to protect the innocent.

They promised to return.

They never looked back.

For God, Country, Flag and Family,

they marched off.

They filled the depots with excitement and awe,

Many had never left home.

They did not shirk a duty.

They embraced it with the gusto of youth.

The training was hard,

but they nary complained.

They had been called and would not fail.

Righteousness and justice would be served.

Steamers, transports, and planes departed

to destinations foreign and unknown.

Did they tremble? No.

Did they fear the unknown? No.

Their mission was for freedom from oppression.

Their youth would bring order to the world.

It was time to right wrongs.

It was time to free the down-trodden.

Belleau Wood, Flanders, Bastogne, Guadalcanal.

The names are so strange yet not a complaint is filed.

Normandy, Tarawa, Iwo Jima.

With gusto and grit they fought on.

Caen, Kabul, Baghdad, Tunisia, Metz and Arnhem

They fought on.

Too many friends were dying or maimed.

The sound of shells and bullets were frightening.

Never knowing when one might pass struck no fear.

The mission must be accomplished.

They fought on.

Okinawa, Burma, Bunker Hill, and Charleston.

Saigon, The Iron Triangle, Kason The endless Deltas.

The message the same.

Right the wrongs and don't stop til the deed is done.

How many have died? Too many!

How many have been freed? Not enough!

How much longer? Til the job is done.

They fought on. Freedom will reign.

Tokyo, Berlin, Rome, The Somme.

They fought, they bleed and died,

All in the name of freedom.

The smoke has cleared.

The losses are tallied.

The camps are empty.

White crosses mark the path of youth lost.

The survivors wonder why?

Why did Joe and Bill die so young?

Why did I live?

Why me?

For Freedom.

To remember the past.

To remind generations to come the price of liberty.

The thought provides minor comfort.

They survey the battlefields and remember.

The long cold nights,

The days filled with rain,

Endless guard duty,

Mess kits filled with mush.

A smile creeps across a grizzled hardened face,

Freedom, that is why we came,

Liberty, is why we fought.

Justice, is why they serve.

A last salute to the fallen but not forgotten.

The men and women who have given all.

The veterans of the United States Military.

It's Veterans Day here in the states. A day that was suppose to be an end to Wars of All Wars. Yes, for those that don't remember or know, this was the day the Armistice was signed to end World War I. My grand father served as a nurse in a hospital during this terrible war. Never had the entire world been embroiled in what would be called "Total War." I never understood what my parents and grand mother kept saying about my grandfather. Even in my dad's waning years, he would occasionally talk about how the war changed his dad. He wasn't the same man who went to the field of France to stem the tide of the German onslaught.

Grand Dad Dawson never talked about the war, ever. How did the war affect him? After years of listening to the story, I remember sitting with my dad on the porch talking about his dad. Ralph Sr. as a, for a better term, vagabond. He could never sit still. He was always on the move. When he came back from the war, he went into the restaurant business and never stopped. He started many successful ventures and then sold them off. He never allowed them to blossom into his utmost dream of success. His crowing achievement came in Oklahoma. He had three of the best hamburger stores in Tulsa. Dad really thought his dad was on his way until he came home one day and notified the family he was selling out and moving. Dad was very distraught. But in retrospect, perhaps his dads unwillingness to settle down was a result in seeing how fragile and precious life was. How many thousands of boys and men did he tend to in the wards, never able to completely heal their wounds, both mental and physical? How many screams and cries echoed through his memories? How much death did he witness? We would never be able to answer those questions.

I remember his  love of fishing and showing his grandson that art. I don't know how many trips he took me through the years, I just remember, I always looked forward to it. Unlike my own father, his dad and I could spent an entire day on the banks or in docks drowning a worm or a minnow or perhaps that wonderful "stink bait" in search of the elusive "big one." Those are fond memories I shall never let go. It was a time of passing the torch and listening to his silent thoughts.

I remember receiving the phone call back in 1971 that grand dad had passed, peacefully. He laid down to nap before his favorite show came on, "Gun smoke." He never caught the last episode. I was very saddened as I got on my bike and rode to tell mom and dad the news.

For years, I missed my fishing buddy, but as time passed, I only hoped that Grand dad Dawson was finally able to let his restless soul find peace and the horrors and cries of young men dying were eased.

RIP Ralph Henry Dawson Sr. Veteran of WWI.

Let's see. It's Saturday the 10 of November. What to do this fine day in Dallas,Tx? Well, need to get a new jean jacket, some jeans, a labotomy and perhaps some new shoes. Wait? Labotomy. Might have to go to Target instead of Sears for that one. Then, off to pick-up edits (argh!!) and dinner with Mr. Brown. Been too long since we sat down and solved the words problems. Hm. We'll see how that works.

What else? Reading? Writing? Arithmatic? Well, one out of three ain't bad. I know. It's time ot spotlight an author I've grown fond of over the past year: Tim Greaton. I came acroos his name about a year ago and decided to give this new author a try. I was not disappointed at all. All of the books are well written and thought out. Each one has its own unique plot and message. I hope you'll take a chance and look into his works. His news book series is Zack Pill. Sadly, I haven't had the time to look into this one yet, but then, time is on my side and it gives something to look forward. Okay, here are the books and the reviews I posted.

Bud's Garage :

Bud's Body Shop

Short and Sweet

 

A little too short and unsatisfying. Mr. Greaton gives us a very small, small glimpse into his upbrining working for his dad. The content provided is good and well written. Another story or two would have been very helpful.

I can see this turning into a very good biography when all of the pieces are in place.

Santa Shopt
http://www.amazon.com/THE-SANTA-SHOP-Tim-Greaton/dp/097266260X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1352561171&sr=8-1&keywords=Tim+Greaton

Not just for Christmas

What happens to an up-and-coming attorney when he chooses to attend the firms Christmas party without his wife and son who perish in an apartment fire? What strange road leads him to standing on the ice laden metal bridge in Gray, Vermont on Christmas Eve staring down at a torrent of black cascading, rushing water hoping to redeem his self-worth (in some bizarre way) to atone for the untimely death of his wife and son? You'll have to read this fine work to obtain the answers.

I could relate to this telling story on too many experiences. This story is for any of us who have every contemplated taking their own lives thinking there is nothing left for us to live for.

Mr. Greaton's tale will prove it otherwise. There is always something to live for no matter how sour the cards have turned.

Thank you Tim.

Under Heaven
http://www.amazon.com/Under-Heaven-ebook/dp/B005D7JNDA/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1352561171&sr=8-7&keywords=Tim+Greaton

Worlds Collide

This is the third book from Mr. Greaton I chose to read. How does it compare to the first two? Completely different-in a good way. Of all the books I've read and reviewed over the past few years, this one falls into its own category-of which I'm still trying to place.

This book reminds me of a fine Cuban cigar, perhaps a glass of Dom Perigion or a well aged Brandy. Each are to be savored and enjoyed, not rapidly consumed waiting for a refill. Relax and enjoy the moment.

The story starts out a little slow with two diverging story lines. I went back several times to make sure I was reading the same story. I thought maybe a chapter or two were inadvertently snuck in. Patience. The two stories are paralleling an unseen time line. The lives of two boys Nathaniel (who was murdered and caught in under-heaven, a sort of weigh station between Heaven and Hell) and Jesse, who is very much alive (hoping his parents reunite) are going to collide in a most unusual way. I was twenty-four chapters into the read and still had no idea where the story was going. For some, that can be frustrating, Refer back to how I described this read. It's not a six pack of Miller-Lite or a Pack of Marlborro Light 100's that the users frequently can't get enough of. This is a story for savoring and reflecting. Believe me, there is so much extra activity surrounding these two boys, one will need to regroup and reflect before moving forward. Enjoy the moment, then move forward. with caution.

In the end you will be shaking your head in stunned silence and asking the question, "No way!" I know I was.

A great read for all.

I have enjoyed all of his stories to date. Mr. Greaton possess a wonderful writing style for all readers. So, if you get a chance, check out his books and enjoy his well crafted stories. Have a great weekend!!
 

How to? Many of you know I'm a bit technoligically challenged. I perform brilliantly until I hit the power button and it turns on. From that point, well, I think you know what happens next. My pleasant demeanor turns into, let's say Jekly and Hide. More "Hide" to say the least. Okay, what's my point? Oh hell, need to reboot, repower--up, recover sites........ I'm losing my mind. Perhaps another pot of coffee will settle the nerves. NOPE!

Back on point. How do you post pictures and your books on the right or left side. I've tried everything with ZERO luck.

I await your suggetions as I navigate these trying waters. OH H...l not again. RE-boot....recover.....ARGHH!

TO FREE, OR NOT TO FREE.

THAT IS THE QUESTION.

Over the past year, I have noticed many different trends and marketing strategies of Indie authors (including myself) to get the word out and increase our readership. Some have had great success, the majority of us are in a log jamb scrambling to hit as many sites and and blogs and threads and bookstore sites. Others have used fliers, shirts, posters, bookmarks, coffee-cups and other promotional devices. But one the that stands out if the freebie program whether it be through Amazon, Barnes and Nobel, Smashwords, Goodreads or even the Google Bookstore (I will admit, I have no books on Google. I found their site confusing, frustrating and very limited support from non-existent customer service).

Should we offer our works for free? Good question. Is there a definitive answer. Not that I can see at this time. I know I have over 4000 titles snatched-up during the promos. Sounds great right? How many reviews or comments have the give aways provided? Take a seat and take a deep breath. .001% have submitted reviews. Yep, that would be FOUR! Look, I'm not against doing a promotion but if you think it will translate into a slew of reviews and accolades, do this. Unlike Amazon, Goodreads shows what readers downloaded the book. Take a real close look at some of those numbers. 1000 to 3000 in the TBR column. Wait a minute, did I see that right? One to three thousand TBR? Hm, not encouraging. I guess its human nature to want something free. I know I do, however if I can't use it ,I'm not picking it up just in case I might use it in the next the ten years or on a rainy day. Personally, I only download a free book if I know I have the time to read the book and thank the author for the opportunity to preview their work. I believe it's only fair.

Okay, should you offer your hard work for free. Absolutely! It does get your name out, but if you are looking for overnight success and gratification, stick with the other promotional items. At least someone will think of you when they are drinking from the coffee mug.

Check out the new trailer for GATEWAY:PIOCHE

Great interview with Maine's other author, Tim Greaton. A good time was had by all. http://timgreatonforum.blogspot.com/2012_10_01_archive.html

Our Neighbors

Our Neighbors

Good morning, afternoon or evening depending on the time zone.

A few weeks ago I ran into one of my neighbors Kevin. We were discussing then normal issues, weather, taxes, political guffaws and the sort. I could tell Kevin had something more important on his mind, but since I didn't know what it was, we continued with the small talk. We moved on to work related items. He was currently unemployed. He was an OTR. For those who don't know, that's an over the road trucker. Work had been a little slow and he was tired of watching yell and white lines dance in front of the windshield. He had applied for a couple of local jobs at the Opera and sound studios. See, Kevin is an artist at heart. He spent years working on his music and running sound gigs. As he describe some of his past gigs I quietly interrupted. "Hey Kevin, why don't you write a book." His look was of confusion. "Where would I start? What do I write? Who would read it?" I think at one time or the other we've all asked the same questions. My answer. "At the beginning. Start at the beginning." He assured me if he got serious about it, he'd give he a shout for direction and motivation.

Yesterday I ran into Kevin again. Asked him if he'd heard back from the Opera or sound stage. Said he hadn't heard a word, but his fingers were still crossed. Then he hit me with, "Guess what? I took your advice, sat down last night and started writing. I was only going to spend about thirty minutes. Instead I found out I had been hammering on the keyboard for over two-and-half hours. I was shocked." The only advice I gave him was since it's an autobiography of his tales on the road and the shows he worked, be honest. Don't make yourself look like the good guy all time. If you do, readers will question the sincerity and depth of the author. He agreed and scurried back to his house.

Let me tell you something, that gave me a great feeling. Will I make any money of of this? No. Will I be credited with a blooming career? No. I will have the satisfaction of knowing I helped a neighbor in a small way launch a new career. I reflected back to the days I was coaching baseball. I never worried about the win loss record. I concentrated on the boys/girls learning how to properly play the game. If I knew they learned the fundamentals, the W's would follow them through life. I got the same feeling with Kevin.

I will help him and answer any and all questions he may have as he ventures into this new and exciting arena. Isn't that what neighbors are for?

With some luck and time, I'll play around and try to spruce the site up a bit.

I thought long and hard about sharing this post and decided it needed to be addressed.

The Five Star Review
 

Earlier this week I received a five star rating for the current work Occupation. Needless to say, I was really pleased until I saw who provided the flowing rating. Now most of us would rejoice, throw high fives, call a friend or even pop a top to complete the celebration. Of the four, which one do you think I chose? Nope, I chose the fifth option, I called the reviewer. I honestly believe he was going to enjoy our conversation as I thanked him for the rating. Not the case. Before he could say "Hi" I asked him one question, "Did you actually read the book?" You could hear the crickets in the background. Slowly the words were nervously being developed. "Ah.......No?" "Just as I thought. You gave a five star rating and didn't read it? Unacceptable!"

Does this seem a little harsh? Maybe. Was I searching for the truth? Absolutely. Look, we all see the posts and hear of the unwarranted and slanted reviews friends and family are providing authors to assist in pushing the book and making it look good. Maybe I'm from the old school. If it's good, it's good. If it's bad, so be it. I would rather receive an honest two star or three star review pointing out areas that need correcting. In fact, I received a three star this week on a book. Did I wilt and hide under the covers because the reader found something wrong with the book? No. I sent a message looking for clarification. If I agree with the reviewer, I will take it into consideration on the next work. If not, I shall continue forward with the same style. The point here, is, if we don't get honest reviews, readers will pick it up in a heartbeat and believe me, they will not be talking about the good points or the story. Instead, they will be accuse the other reviewers of being "homers." I know. I've read a few books of late that glowed with accolades and congratulations on the work. After reading it, I was still scratching my head trying to figure out if we read the same book. I then went back and started looking at other books the reviewers had rated. I was shock (at first) to see for the most part, it was the first review they ever posted. Yep, there's a fox in the chicken house and he's going to get his fill.

The bottom line, we need honest, insightful and yes, critical reviews when warranted. Readers will acknowledge and identify honest reviews and be more willing to hit the buy button. Oh, did the reviewer take down the five star rating? Yes.

Honey. Is it cold inside, or just happy to see me?

This is a first. I'm speechless. Seriously, this a action packed, humor filled, well paced novel. I believe Rod Serling would have a problem topping this work. How would you classify the following parallels:

Captain Kirk meets James Bond meets Butthead who meets Monty Python meets? I'm still stumped.

However, based on my inabilities to process a cognoscente thought, let's give it a go.

The main character is Case. That's it. Call me Case. This individual is, well, how do you describe a man who has one thing, no two things, no three, no wait. He never gets to the third thought. First and foremost is breeding the other sex. Yet not matter how hard he tries, I believe his best friend is Rosie and her sisters. I'll say no more. The second? He does his absolute best to portray himself as the great lover and hero so as too impress those he has taken an extreme interest in as long as he can be the hero while protecting the exposed flanks. Seriously, why would anyone take on the enemy head on when they are outwitting the enemy or foe by running away with dignity. Sounds like a good plan to me. I mean, if you can't be guaranteed (while risking your life) delving into sumptuous mountains and or perky peaks, why bother? He has a plan. Flawed but it is a plan.

This is a great book for those of us old enough to remember Marsha Brady (wonder why Case missed a trip to suburbia-he went every place else). Why? Because this adventure travels every important and unimportant cinema event the silver screens could host. Oops, there are few for the senior set also.

Bottom line. If you a few hours and need a trip down memory lane packed with humor anecdotes and travel back in time when we [ men] were buff and fighting off the droves of groupies (we never achieved), this the book for you.

It would behoove the makers of Cialis and Viagra to read the introduction. Could be a new marketing slogan. http://www.amazon.com/Bad-Book-ebook/dp/B007SAVB7G/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1342288923&sr=8-2&keywords=bad+book+hise.

I'm posting three reviews on books by Sandy Wolters. If you like books with a good pace, strong female characters and a bit of the paranormal thrown it, you won't be disappointed. She is a very talented writer. http://www.amazon.com/Justice-For-Emily-ebook/dp/B004VB8QJG/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1341508023&sr=1-1&keywords=sandy+wolters.

Justice is Served.

Hmm, where do I start? Did I like the story. Absolutely! I was a little slow in realizing it was a novella and was looking for more development. Seriously, Miss Walters kicks the book in gear and doesn't allow the reader a chance to "catch-a-breath" until the main characters Rachael and Patrick wind-up in each others arms for how shall I say, a very long intimate interlude. Now this is one of the scenes I didn't care for, not that I'm a prude by any stretch of the imagination, but because this was a novella, I really thought it lasted must too long for the length of the book. Is this part of the book well written, Absolutely. Was it hot and passionate? Oh yeah, just a little too long. I believe the time could have been better spent with Patrick's mom (deceased) talking with him and Rachael.

Whoops, got a head of myself. When I was reading the scene where his mom is talking to he and Rachael, I had to back away for a minute and recollect my senses. Why? Because his mom isn't some apparition floating about the house, she is as solid as you or I. I forget, Miss Walters writes paranormal books.

A little more information before I wind this up (don't want the review longer than the book).

A murder occurs in Brownwood, Texas. One of the nicest women in town is Emily Campbell who is married to police Chief Boyd Campbell. Patrick is called on the radio one night to come to the Campbell residence on an apparent suicide by his boss Boyd. None of the police procedural protocols are followed which doesn't settle well with Patrick, but going against his boss doesn't seem like the smartest career move on his part, so he keeps quite while a terrible feeling pulls in his gut. He wants to enlist help, yet has no one to turn to in town. Welcome in Rachael, a Phoenix (somewhat psychic) homicide detective crosses his path while on vacation yet gets lost along her way (she has a real problem with maps and directions). These two will combine forces along with a few town folk and a few other players who are no longer part our world. How they flush out the murderer of Emily is well worth the ride.

This book is for both males and females. Something for everyone and a very fun read.

I will be reading another one of Sandy's books in the coming months, just haven't decided on which one.

http://www.amazon.com/Maggie-Mae-ebook/dp/B004P8K2J2/ref=sr_1_4?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1341508023&sr=1-4&keywords=sandy+wolters.

Brilliant writing

This is the second book I have read by Sandy Wolters and it is wonderfully written. She has a true flair in prose.

The general plot is well devised and crafted. Little Maggie May has had a very rough five years. Her husband is murdered on their wedding night when they both decide to take a trip to the local convenience store. For the next five years she locks herself away from life thinking she will never fill the void her beloved Jimmy left in her heart.

She is out of town on business when her brother decides to lend a helping hand in bringing down a tree that is on its last leg. The tree (while coming down) mysteriously and unexplainably diverts from falling harmlessly to the ground and instead crashes onto the house she and Jimmy built. Her brother calls the local Chief of Police fearing for his life. He is convinced that his sister, (all 5' 2" of her) will promptly put an end to his life upon her return.

The catastrophe triggers a host of chain events that will pit the police chief and a long time family friend against each other in hopes of wooing Maggie to the altar.

This is a fast paced novel and you will be finished before you know it!

One other note. Since both of her parents have passed on, I wonder who is going to give the bride away if she makes a choice between her two highly competitive suitors?

Well done Miss Sandy. I will be reading A Brother's Love in the next month or so.

http://www.amazon.com/A-Brothers-Love-ebook/dp/B005CDAFOG/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1341508023&sr=1-3&keywords=sandy+wolters.

She did it again!

This is the third book I have read by Sandy and I'm here to tell ya it's just as good as the first two. Without going into the details of the book I'm going to address her style.

Sandy has an excellent way of developing her characters to the point the reader is thrust into the scenes becoming completely immersed. Her trait of inventing short, petite, firebrand females is amazing. All of her gals are true "show stoppers," but men, beware. There bite is definitely worse then their bark. Men are constantly falling over their own two feet vying for the affections of the heroine. Those males that are somewhat familiar with the gals realize that the wrong word will have extremely dire consequences to the male physical and mental psyche. Well done Miss Sandy.

A brother's love "in a tight" is about our heroine Pilar (FBI) agent and other agents who foil a bank robbery and shoot Thomas Baker (Founder of the Snowflake Militia) dead. His brother Boone puts a one million dollar bounty on Pilar's head. She is unwillingly whisked away to a safe house supposedly for her protection. The men on the farm - no ranch, aren't so sure who needs protecting. Them or she. Everything appears to be moving along nicely until Pilar is notified that her brother, sister-in-law and nephew have been murdered. Will her brother's love assist in hunting down the killer or will Pilar spend the rest of her days looking for the man responsible for taking away everything she ever loved?

Like the other two books, Maggie Mae and Justice for Emily, a Brother's love is faced paced and intense. The only critical thought on this story was maybe a little too much time was dealt with Pilar being in protective custody at the ranch. Other than that, the story is a wonderful fun quick read.

A little over a year ago, I was talking to my daughter about Mom. "Savanna, she doesn't have much time. If you want to see her one more time, I'll watch the girls. I think you need to make this trip on your own." She didn't hesitate and accepted the offer. She drove to Tulsa and spent the weekend with her grandma with no interference or distractions. She and mom had a wonderful visit. Sadly, it was their last. She was sad knowing the clock was ticking down, but she was very proud of herself (as was I) for making the trip. She grew up a lot that weekend.

Are you ready for vampires to regain their standing in the genre? Are you ready for them to stop "sparkling" and take on a worthy opponent? Then wait no longer. This book will satisfy even the most "bloody thirsty" appetites with an added twist; one of the clans is able to release a very nasty bacteria into their respective hosts which after ninety days or so unleashes a very ghoulish end to the recipients.

The Third Reich has Occupied Poland. The plan of "relocating" the population is well underway with one problem the Germans could have never imagined. They unknowingly are removing the food supply of the Romanov and Boirarsky vampire clans. Needless to say, they do not care for each other at all. Too much bad blood has been spilled over the past centuries. Will they be able to unite and take on the true enemy; the Third Reich, or will they perish as the food supply quickly diminishes?

Get a copy today and find out if the Romanov and Boirarsky clans will succeed in uniting and dealing the Third Reich their first of many defeats.

http://www.amazon.com/Occupation-ebook/dp/B005XA1FZQ/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1341330465&sr=1-3&keywords=jeff+dawson

Why did Everything Happen

Spring 2004: With another failed venture on the horizon, foundations were being shaken again. That one word was resurfacing, “FAILURE”. Not again. Why is history repeating itself? Everything was in place. There is no sane explanation for what happened. Joined a church, lived right, took care of the kids, donated to charities. We did everything right this time! So why is this happening?

The bus driver just kept his eyes on the road. “This is maddening! Say something! Where are we going? Get off this road now!” No response. A shift of the gears. The white stripes are flying by faster. There is no place to pull over and stop. STOP! PLEASE STOP! THIS ISN'T THE PATH WE WANT!http://www.amazon.com/Everything-Happen-Cancer-Recovery-ebook/dp/B004EPYUSA/ref=sr_1_5?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1341330317&sr=1-5&keywords=jeff+dawson.

This book by Charity Parkerson is a must for the gals.

Danger Undercoverhttp:http://www.amazon.com/Danger-Undercover-ebook/dp/B007JNKFKG/ref=sr_1_6?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1341330145&sr=1-6&keywords=charity+parkerson

Five stars for the gals/three-and-a-half for the guys.

Well now, this was interesting to say the least. I have read a few books over the years that tie characters together but never anything quite like this.

Charity has done a very interesting feat in combing the lives of all her characters: Avery, Caitlin, Autumn, Jake Lewis, Jackson, Ewin, Catriona, and Dan.

Nothing, I mean nothing appears as it seems. The reader is whisked right into the action with our heroin Caitlin (or one of them) finds herself in a not so appeasing situation. She is the unwiiling guest of Allie and James (her ex-boyfriend). From this moment on, the plot only thickens, thickens, and keeps thickening as more characters become involved with solving why Caitlin was kidnapped and almost unceremoniously eliminated. The reader will enjoy how when each new character is introduced. You find out there is connection, whether it is work, an old acquaintance or family? Yes family. From childhood friends to connections with the Underworld. Military contractors to a distant aspiring newspaper writer. Tell me that doesn't encompass the full spectrum. Tom Clancy might need to check this one out for future ideas.

Who do I think would enjoy this read the most? Women, hands down. No doubt about. Gals like a whole lot of romance with a bit of tension. She excels in this area. Being of the male persuasion, I prefer a bit more action, but hey, I can see where Charity could build a very large following with her description of males who rival the Gods of Greece or Rome. What women wouldn't enjoy sliding their hands over very well sculptured muscles. I chose not to look in the mirror at this time, thank you.

Why three and a half stars? If there would have a little more time spent on the scenes when the bad guys meet their demise and the aftermath, that would have garnished the extra half star. Could be because I might be just a tad jealous of the men she summoned to the pages. Personal problem I know.

So gals, if you are looking for a book that will keep you on the edge or your seat wanting more from the male characters, wait not another minute longer, get a copy with an ample supply of batteries and prepare to have your imagination rocked!

I have a lot of reviews to post and will try and do one every third day or so.

Okay, I keep forgetting I have this tool in the arsenal. It's time I started using it. I'll work on changing the background when I figure it out. Just finished a great book for YA by Christine Hughes. Below is the review and link.

Back off Buffy!

I raised an eyebrow or two before I decided to take a stab at this one. Seriously, my genre is non-fiction history. In the past months I've taken a moment and stepped away from the comfort zone to see what else is out there. Some of the books have been really good while others shouldn't have been written. This one falls into the first category.

We have all seen the same old story line concerning good and evil. It's been done a thousand times with the same results, but never have we seen it from the eyes of a seventeen year old who is about to find out what everyone else already knew; she (unwillingly) holds the key between darkness and light. She alone can decided the fate of mankind or will she straddle both worlds and play both sides? That's pretty cool. This reminds me of "Time Weaver" by Thomas A. Knight.

The key players are Lucas, Ethan and Samantha. Lucas and Ethan have been charged with training her for a coming battle. She hasn't a clue what is going on. Hm, how many seventeen years old (male/female) have we known with that quality? Can't count that high.

The most intriguing part of the book, it is told in the first person. No one is describing the events or adding unwanted commentary. The words are coming from Samantha and her feelings. This is right up there with "Scars" by Patience Prence.

As I read farther, the plot and action picked-up. I can see where every teenage girl who thrilled with the adventures of Buffy and today's True Blood and Vampire Diaries will fall in love with this story. What teenager doesn't want to be a true heroine while also exploring the sensations and feelings of love? They can also relate to the inner demons facing Samantha as she is forced to decided which side to take and which lover will do? Ah, but there is a problem. Are the potential mates there to train and watch over her, or is there a more sinister plot brewing?

Will Samantha's rage for her father's death guide her to the dark side or will she learn how to control her hate and channel it in the right direction? Think of the movie "Red Dawn" when the guerilla's learn that their parents were executed. How did that turn out? Yep, Samantha is full of pent-up energy that when used out of rage and anger has everyone ducking and taking cover, and I MEAN EVERYONE!

http://www.amazon.com/Torn-ebook/dp/B0089Z7QBY/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1340669038&sr=1-1&keywords=christine+hughes.

I recommend this book to all girls and women who are thirsting for a strong female character who never completely conquers her inner demons.

Today only, Occupation is free on amazon. http://www.amazon.com/Occupation-ebook/dp/B005XA1FZQ/ref=sr_1_5?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1336235865&sr=1-5.

I spent over two years looking for a competent editor. I talked with friends and colleagues. Many offered there services yet they couldn't meet the deadlines. Others reviewed the manuscripts and supplied thoughts and comments but still fell short of the desired product. I went so far as to use a service on  E-lancer. Elicited bids for the current book in publication. Received twenty-four bids and painstakingly picked a winner. I was convinced I had found the right person for the job. Not the case.

I didn't give up. I kept watching the Amazon threads and interacting with participants. I came across a gal who said she'd give it a go. To date she had gone through two other manuscripts and picked out mistakes others didn't catch. Her name? Bev Harrisson from Down under. Too date, I have suggested her services to other writers and it appears the results have been most satisfactory.

If you are tired of hunting around for a good quality conscience editor, look no farther. Bev can be reached on her website bevharro.livejournal.com. Trust me, you will not be disappointed.

I have four more books in the works and she will definitely be doing the work.

The website is up and running; lddjenterprises.com. Come take a look at all of the products currently available for purchase. With luck, will publish three if not four books this year along with another poster for Occupation.

Finally got a twitter account, JeffDawson59. Join in and add your thoughts and comments.

Deep Ellum Festival April 6th through 8th. Dallas,Tx.

I will be autographing copies of "Occupation," Love's True Second Chance," and "Why did Everything Happen" on Saturday and Sunday form 1:00pm to 3:00pm at the festival. I will be at Crowdus and Main street in front of The Deep End.

I will also be offering T-Shirts for the book Occupation. So, if you're in town during the weekend, stop by and say hi. It would be great to see everyone there.