Shades of Murder: Lauren Carr

The name is Gnarly. I am a really great German Shepherd who lives in a mansion. Not bad for a dog.  The guy who lives here is a millionaire several times over but I have the run of the place and usually do my own thing. I was dishonorably discharged from the United States Army but that really has no bearing on this story but I thought you might want to know before hear it from someone else. Living with Mac Faraday is definitely great because you never know what’s going to happen, who is going to wind up dead and what help he is going to need from me to solve the murder. It all started in 2006 on a beautiful day before I was born and came to live here. Several police officers were called to scene of two different deaths. One was said to be a murder and the other an accident. The accident victim, Charlie Smith was not who he appeared to be. When the real Charlie Smith learned of the accident did not seem to care about the demise of the man in the accident. Turns out, Mr. Smith was a thief who enjoyed stealing the identities and of course funds of the victim whose identity he stole. The second death was a murder. Ilsya Ramsey was a noted artist and was about to have a showing at the Louvre in France. Completing her self-portrait the day before the murder she was excited about the showing but never shared her work before completing it.

Spencer Police Office David O’Callaghan is hot, smart and definitely the one officer you want handling any investigation. You should see the girls ogling him. On his way to Robin Spencer’s Labor Day celebration he gets called to a murder scene of a well-known artist. Ilysa Ramsey had just started taking the art world as the author states by storm when she is found murdered. Neal Hathaway might be rich and have power but all the money in the world could not revive or bring back his wife. Someone bludgeoned her to death.  But, there is much more that I have to relate to you because we cannot forget Charlie Smith. Could these deaths be related?

Let me flash ahead to the present time where I can tell you first hand what is going on in Deep Creek Lake. I am Gnarly and as I said I have the run of the mansion. As two deliverymen find their way to my home, my curiosity got the better of me and I made sure to blindside them before they could deliver their package. Mac, our millionaire, has a flare for getting involved in mysteries and solving them.

Archie Monday was Robin Spencer’s assistant and lives in the guest cottage at Spencer Manor. A package, as I said, is about to be delivered to Mac that would once again envelop him into a murder investigation. But, having a serious mind of my own, I high jacked the deliverymen, disobeyed all of Mac’s commands, and definitely got everyone’s attention. What was in the box delivered that nobody but Mac and Archie were curious about? Let’s not forget me: Gnarly.

Let’s bring the past into the present and tie some events together right now. In this package is a letter addressed to Mac’s late mother, which explains its contents. Within this box was a painting by Ilysa Ramsey. The painting in question had been stolen and her murder is still unsolved. The value of the painting- priceless. Was Mac thrilled? That still remains to be seen because this book definitely has many different Shades Of Murder.

Deputy Police Chief Art Bogart was one of the officers, along with our Police Chief David O’Callaghan, who investigated this murder. Just in case you did not read the other books by Lauren Carr and have no idea just who this great guy is, Mac Faraday inherited millions of dollars, the estate, his mother who was a famous mystery writer’s journal and one hot half-brother named David. Hope you got it all.

The Ilysa Ramsay painting is a self-portrait adding to its value. Within the painting were family members, friends and associates. The one person not in the picture was her husband. As Bogart identifies each person in the painting to Mac, they formulate in their minds which one or ones might be suspects. Since Ilysa was just starting to become part of the art world and her husband was a big patron of the arts, completing this painting before the showing was paramount to her. The showing was at the Louvre in France. As the events are recounted, they state that she had a disagreement with her manager who has since disappeared.

Let’s add another player and hot guy to the plot, who many of you might know from Lauren Carr’s earlier novels. Hancock, County, West Virginia prosecuting attorney, Joshua Thornton is visiting SCI Green Maximum Prison to see serial rapist and murderer Oliver Cartwright. Asked to see him by Reverend Brody, Cartwright wants his name cleared for a murder he claims he never committed.

Cartwright was convicted of killing and raping seven women. But, he claims only six. Jane Doe, or Victim Number Four, was not his and he wants Joshua to investigate the murder and find her killer. Joshua promises to help only for Jane Doe’s family. Searching for the names of the lead investigators led him to Pennsylvania and a chilly welcome from the officers at the police station. As the discussion continues with the officers, the reader and, of course, me, wonder if they ever really looked past Cartwright for the murder. The end result is not what you would expect and what follows adds not only humor to the plot, but explains why I said this guy was not only a great prosecutor, but hot too. A phone call from Detective Cameron Gates would change everything as they decide to meet in an unusual way and manner. But, let’s not forget her friend Irving. As Gates reveals the information from her informant known as the Ghost, more information about Jane Doe comes to light. But, Joshua notices something that everyone overlooked. Could this be a copycat murder? Where did this victim come from and was that the reason no one identified her? But, Gates had more than just the case in mind after meeting Joshua.

Let’s get back to our millionaire and the painting. Staring into the face of Ilysa, Mac gets a strange feeling that she is crying out to him to find the killer. Mac, David and Bogart pay a visit to the Hathaway’s and their meeting is quite telling. Meeting the different family members, you begin to wonder whether they even cared about poor Ilysa. When Mac tells Neal and his son Scott that they are going to reopen the case and investigate, Neal’s primary concern is the painting that Mac has in his possession and not the murder. It takes Neal a while to register why they are there. We meet Rachel, who is Scott’s wife, and the housekeeper Greta.

When the fingerprints come back from the forensic lab what they find out will definitely astound the reader as author Lauren Carr once again supplies a twist so devilish and cunning you won’t see it coming. Would you believe that the murder that took place in 2004 was the second murder of the same person? How can that be? Well, some facts cannot be revealed and only if the author allows me to bark out the evidence (and she won’t) will I divulge the answer to that question and many more. Besides I was able to get the police officer’s submarine sandwich away from him just by being cunning and staring at him. But, what follows is even more mindboggling as an another murder similar to Ilysa’s occurs, her manager is found dead and the pieces of the canvas will definitely paint a whole new picture when the portrait of this killer is finally done. Just what was behind the murders and what was Ilysa really doing besides painting? How was one police detective involved and why?

What happens next to Mac really is quite startling as his boat goes up in flames. I protect everyone and the house and get the thief, too, but will I be praised for my efforts? Only trying to do my job. Thank goodness Archie is on my side or they might send poor me to the pound or worse!  Deceit, lies, betrayals, cover-ups and much more before all is said and done. Wait until you see how this plays out and who killed Ilysa and who lives to see another day. Don’t worry, I will be back again as soon as this amazing author decides to create another plot for me and, of course, Mac. Maybe he and Joshua will team up for good or maybe they will be smart enough to deputize me once and for all. This is Gnarly until next time.

 FIVE SUBMARINE SANDWICHES FOR MY PAL GNARLY 

http://www.worldcastlepublishing.com/home.html

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winds of redemption

Winds of Redemption

Harvey Goodman

Clint Smith is dead. He played his final hand and lost. Five stud poker was his game and three bullets were his hope of taking the pot away from the other players. But, Lucius Hammond was clever, elusive and definitely not exactly what he appeared to be. Entering the bar, ordering a bottle of whiskey and deciding to share it with one woman who came on to him was the perfect set up to gain her trust. Invited to drink with her and then and invitation to a high stakes poker game allowed him access to his mark. Lucius Hammond was a hired killer. Clint his victim never knew that he argument that would ensue during the game and his accusations that he was cheating would be the last words he ever said. Pretending to be a novice at the game our killer made sure to lose a few hands before taking control of the game. When accused of cheating he denied it of course and what happens next you can figure out for yourself as Lucius Hammond claimed he drew in self-defense. Before anyone could figure out the chain of events he was gone.

Sammy Winds just bought a great ranch from the Taylor brothers and is getting ready to return home with his new herd. At the same time a group of men approach a young Indian Squaw about the whereabouts of Clint Smith. What happens next leaves several dead including the Indian woman. The men are part of a posse run by the same man who hired Lucius to kill Clint. Boothe Haney is the man who keeps order and makes sure the rules of the gang are followed. Anyone crossing him or defying the gang would pay dearly. An ex-priest and several orphans lived with the Indian woman but would have to hide from these men. Approached by this gang of men realizing they were in danger the five children and the padre hide.

Sammy Winds encounters a white man and a Chinaman on his land. Questioning him about his ownership of the property alerts him to possible danger. Explaining to these men that prospecting on his land was not going to happen was just one message he hoped they got. But, there is much more as the author reveals the man behind the corrupt organization who has set his sights on the best land in the area and will stop at nothing to get it. New Mexico, Territory has not attained statehood yet and this one man, named Lambmorton wants it all. A discussion with Mr. Han, the Chinaman yielded information this man wanted and might explain why Clint Smith was now dead. As Han explained the value of the land and the fact that Sammy Wind’s property might be replete in gold, silver, emerald, garnet and other resources, Mr. Han explained the problems that would be involved. Rupert Crowder would file the abandoned homestead claim in court for the late Clint Smith’s property. When Rupert Crowder offered Smith a generous sum for his land and he refused our friend Lucius handled it.

From the best selling award-winning novel Along the Fortune Trail comes the next chapter in the life of Sammy Winds. As Sammy is returning home with his supplies and thinking of his future wife, Jenny, he recounts and replays in his mind the encounter with Mr. Han and a man referred to as Stanley. Author Harvey Goodman takes the reader inside the home of the man behind the corruption, his mind and his thoughts as he leads us through the dangerous missions, encounters and Sammy’s fight to keep what he worked so hard to get. So, saddle up your favorite horse, make sure that you hang on tight to those reins and ride along with Sammy and his crew. Even though this is a western the author brings to light many issues involving corruption, murder for hire and creates his own form of mystery and suspense keeping the reader pinned to the saddle until the bumpy ride is over and you are once again on solid terrain.

But, the ride home would prove even more interesting as he meets Padre Thomas and five amazing young orphans. But, would he tell them about the men and would this all link together as they came to stay at his ranch. Explaining how they came to stay in the shed owned by Clint Smith and their encounter with the men who shot the woman and several that worked for Smith the pieces of the broken trail are beginning to fit together as Sammy offers the Padre and the family one hundred acres of land on his property for his family.

Rupert Crowder is not done yet and he approaches Sammy Winds about his land and the answer he gets is definitely not what his employer wanted to hear. But, before all is said and done many lives would be lost and the dangers of the west apparent. Loyalty, trust, understanding and families unite to save so many. When danger ensues 12 year old Rory saves the Padre and is able to warn the others. Jing Lu and Camille are taken prisoner along with Jenny but when Sammy receives a note from the Sheriff and learns that he was being set up what happens next you just won’t believe. The laws were different back then and the right to protect yourself of utmost importance. As Sammy goes after the men who kidnapped his wife, killed some of his workers and tried to take his land.

Welcome back Margaret and Blaine as they visit with Sammy and he learns of Claire’s death and the birth of her son Robert. Just how will Sammy help her keep her land and what will happen between them you will have to read for yourself.

Five really smart kids and one young Rory who you just have to love with spunk, tenacity and the drive to save those he loves author Harvey Goodman takes the reader inside the minds of these killers as they go after Sammy, his family and his friends. An ending that will teach any outlaw that you don’t mess with Winds and a surprise twist that will endear you to one of the villains, Winds of Redemption is more than just a book about one man, his land and his life. It is about fighting for what is yours, standing up for what you believe the loyalty of his family the Taylors and the trust of the woman he loves. Will they survive and will he get there in time to save Jenny and the two girls? What happens when the Padre is shot? Will they get Boothe, Crowder and the person behind the murders? You just won’t believe who was running the show and the explosive ending that will let you know That Winds of Redemption is one book you want to read and hopefully the author will bring them all back for more. Along the Fortunes Trail was one of my picks for 2010. It just might be one of my picks for 2012. Redemption:” The action of saving or being saved from sin, error, or evil.” Find out what that means when you read this outstanding novel. Hope you enjoyed the ride.

This book gets: five gold nuggets

Fran Lewis: reviewer

         

The Exiled Element: A Beck Novel: My review

The Exiled Element: A Beck Novel: My review

The Exiled Element: A Beck Novel: My review

The Exiled Element: A Beck Novel: My review

A Bonnie Moss Adventure

Warning! A Bonnie Moss Journalistic Adventure!

Author: Anna Shaw

The outer shell of an egg is quite fragile. Place it in your hands and hold it too tightly and it will crack and fall apart. Take a piece of blown glass and gently place it on a glass table. What would happen if the table accidentally tips? What will happen to the beautifully crafted piece of glass? Bonnie Moss and so many others are about to find out just how fragile life can be, the dangers that can cause their lives to fall apart or break at the hand of crooked politicians, contractors and nature.

Bonnie Moss is a news reporter attending the Torrance County Fair. Observant, smart and definitely hardworking she becomes embroiled in some dangerous situations while covering the fair and photographing the events. While speaking with the officer in charge of Dixie’s Animal Control, they observe a dangerous tiger, which is part of one of the exhibits off his leash and able to roam freely. Approaching the trainer and asking him to please take all safety precautions, they are surprised at his unorthodox response or lack of concern for spectators. But, there is much more. Arkansas where this story takes place has been riddled with small yet dangerous earthquakes and tremors that ignite at any time. Hoping that these quakes will distract the locals and those in charge of building codes one politician has enlisted the aid of a corrupt contractor to build a shopping mall using downgraded materials because they are less expensive. Safety does not come into play just profit.

Martin Anders an on air newscaster for one of the local radio groups is working the fair along with Bonnie. While they are discussing the fair and the quakes something happens that distracts them both. As tremors come closer and the rides and exhibits need to be closed down one albino tiger runs lose and what happens next could not only injure many but kill on little girl if no one gets to her first. One judge gave permission for this tiger to be allowed to stay off his leash. What happens you won’t believe as many lives are endangered before the solution comes to pass.

Nathaniel Holmes is rich, greedy and coldblooded. He is behind the development of the Dixie Sunshine Mall. At the age of 32 he has risen to the top of the business world. Working in an investment brokerage firm he hoped to become a full partner. But, not everything turns out the way you want it. What his partners found out cost him more than just his job. The words embezzler and crook are only two of the words that define his character. But, life dealt him a different hand and he was lucky. When his father passed away he left him millions enabling him to open his own investment counseling business and because no one was able to prove what he had done before he was able to return to Dixie unscathed.

Bonnie Moss was not only a news reporter and photographer but she did investigative reports, created special design sections for the paper dealing with events and festivals. Entering the newsroom her editor motions for her to come into her cubicle to discuss the gravity of the quakes. As the author whose research is extensive shares with the reader information concerning these quakes, where Bonnie got her information for her upcoming articles and just how these quakes come about. Reading the prologue you will learn even more and just when and how these quakes affected the area and state where this novel takes place.

Why doesn’t Dixie have a disaster plan and when will Judge Marge Wilson decide to create one? With phone calls about the quakes and the fact that the United States Geological Survey maintained that most of the quakes were over New Madrid, something had to be done in case it got worse and a plan had to be in place.

Something happens at the site of the new mall while at the same time Bonnie is meeting with the Dixie Chamber of Commerce to discuss funding and the quakes. As another reporter is called to the site of the mall we learn about the structural damage, those injured and the possible cause attributed to the quakes. But, is that the real reason and when Holmes shows up and discusses it with the site engineer why does the engineer go with his assessment?

Lies, deceits, corruption not only in the government but in the business world too. Many different players will benefit from the mall but what happens when the specs and the work are under par and the end result just might mean lives?  How desperate is one businessman to cut corners at the expense of an entire community?

Suspicions rise and the three close friends begin putting the pieces of the puzzle together. Holmes was hoping that everyone’s focus would be on the quakes and not on the mall project hoping to funnel money from the project into his own bank account. But, can they prove it and what will the end result be for the people of Dixie?

A council meeting is quite revealing as the quakes and the ramifications of them are being swept under the rug in order to highlight the opening of the mall. But, strange events are happening all over including at the Animal Shelter as well as the structural damage at the mall that has yet to be brought to light and will be fixed after the opening. But, events that follow will leave the reader wondering why so many want to ignore the danger of the quakes and are more concerned about the opening of the mall. The lakes are becoming filled with dead fish and one man is found dead. Suspicions rise but will anyone really look deeply into the cause of these unusual events? There are many truths that will come out as one young wife finally learns what kind of business her husband is really into and one young woman would have to ward off a stalker. With the information Marty and Bonnie have gathered about the quakes and their meetings with CERI and other agencies why does the Mayor want to cover it up? The end result just remains to be seen as the big quake might hit but will anyone take heed to the warnings before it is too late?

The end result and what happens you will have to read for yourself. The starling events will definitely make you think twice about the gravity of quakes and what happens when corners are cut and the public needs to have a more watchful eye. Interesting book and definitely researched quite well. If you look up the CERI you will learn see as I did today the startling results as earthquakes are reported daily in so many places in the world. Bonnie, Marty and Ephraim work hard to get the word out but will they succeed and will they survive the big one? Let’s hope they work together to solve more mysteries. Some outer shells can never be repaired.  Bonnie is really an interesting character and the newspaper staff is quite good. But, you have to love Ephraim and Marty. Find out why when you read this book.

Fran Lewis: reviewer

Chasing the Red Car: My review

Chasing the Red Car

Author: Ellen Ruderman

Who would want to leave the Bronx? Certainly not Kim Lebow whose parents have decided to uproot the entire family to California. While sitting on the stoop of her apartment on Bolton Avenue she tried to convince herself and her friends that this trip was just a short three-month vacation. But, Kim and her sister, Jonna, knew better. Jonna was truly upset and when she voiced her opinion to her mother, she was told in no uncertain terms that the decision was not hers but her parents. Arthur, their father, was up for a job at a major University and was glad to be leaving his present position at City College. Politics can often come into play in many jobs and expressing his feelings obviously created dissention for him. Convincing herself that the Route 66 trip would be fun she related to her friends how excited she was about even seeing Roy Roger’s horse Trigger, Dale Evans and some movie stars. As the author relates the beginning of the story I have to say that living in Pelham Parkway up until a few months ago this story brings back great memories. The trip to Lydig Avenue, which is still filled with great stores today and going to the RKO Pelham, really brings back great memories. Jonna had only one friend, Harry. Jonna was truly shaken up about leaving the one person who made her feel safe. Kim was concerned about her mother who never seemed to leave her bed and when she did she was always in a foul mood. Many people leave places for different reasons and Kim began to understand her father’s more after taking this special walk with him.

The trip to California was exciting in some respects and enlightening in others.  His father’s friend lost his job because of his political viewpoint. A discussion at dinner one night would enlighten the reader and both children to the political dissent going on in the country and to her father’s outspoken ways. Listening to her mother, as I did mine living in the Bronx, playing Mah Jongg brought back great memories. When Kim’s vision is to ride the Red Car with her father when she gets older. The Red Car is his way of getting from place to her and her link to another world. Kim is bored and the hot valley summers and the tension between her parents and the political unrest causes her to want to take that ride in that Red Car over the Cahuenga Pass and find out what is on the other side.

As the story continues we meet many of Kim’s mother and father’s new friends, hear their discussions concerning the political arena, their concerns for many of the jobs of the college professors and the hint that the colleges are going after anyone that might be considered a Communist. The turbulence of the times takes its toll on many people as one teacher pays the price for his free thinking opinions and his ability to draw the students out and allow them to question. One teacher refuses to allow her students to question causing others to wonder why she is there and for what reason. Kim and her fellow students are devastated when this one teacher is discharged as he helped draw her out using the school newspaper as an outlet for her thoughts and ideas. Both Kim and Andrea helped support a Senatorial Candidate and once again the shift was pointed against her as Nixon’s smear campaign not only caused her to lose but also tarnished her reputation accusing this candidate of being a Soft Communist or Red. The end result is tragic and one young girl loses more than just a good mentor and friend. As the story continues we learn more about the political situation and Kim is now in college overcoming many other hurdles. But, the one thing that is constant and in the back of her mind is the volatile situation between her parents and the lack of care for her sister left behind. Jonna shows and has a great deal of resentment for her mother Lila and feels neglected in so many ways. Kim is torn and turned into many different places as she is constantly called upon to come home when her mother takes too many pills and tries to end her life. The last incident more serious than the rest and her father nowhere in sight. With only the help of her Aunt Marion, who she finally bonded with, Kim needs to decide where her life is going. Meeting a young man named Lucien and hearing their discussions about the political issues is truly enlightening as the author brilliantly brings the reader back in time to this period where just a mere sentence or a few words expressing a different opinion could get you tagged or labeled as a Red and losing your job or even more. When the Red Car is dismantled and the people of the Valley are left with only a bus, Kim and her friends become disheartened. Trying to follow her dreams and her aspirations of becoming a great writer, this is one more thing that makes you wonder whether these people really lived in a democracy at the time or was censorship going to be the norm.

As the years move on we learn that Kim’s family has many tragic endings as she loses her mother, sister and father for different reasons. Each death has a different impact on her and many of her ideals and relationships change as a result. Truths come out and Kim learns the secrets that have been hidden for so many years as her Aunt Marion relates the truth behind her relationship with her father and much more.

A circle has no beginning and no end as Kim finds out. Flashbacks to the past come full circle in the present as her thoughts and her department heads questions voice as The First Amendment is tested once again. Just what the end result is and how her life turns out you will have to take the ride on the Red Trolley Car yourself to find out what happens at the last stop. From 9/11 to the Bush Administration to 2006 when the same things started over again, just when will open thinking be aloud and just where does Kim wind up? The Red Car was the “spirit of freedom and unity and linked those in the Valle with the city beyond.” The ending will definitely surprise you and many more secrets and truths revealed as Kim learns that something’s never change and the world is still the same as it was when she was growing up but one thing does change: Her ideals, thoughts and goals. Keep Chasing those Red Cars and your path will remain solid. This is one book that provides much research about a many highly volatile periods in America’s history and that of many other countries when these Witch Hunts might have started in the 50’s but after 9/11 they continued front and center as you learn from the author and you hear Kim’s final thoughts when she receives an important letter. This is one book that everyone should read.

Fran Lewis: reviewer

Let’s give this book: FIVE RED TROLLEY CARS TO FREEDOM

Don't Cry Daddy's Here

Don't Cry Daddy's Here

Searching for Sassy: My review

Searching for Sassy: My review

Blogger: BlogThis!

Blogger: BlogThis!

Temptation: My review

Temptation: My review

Dave Riggler's stories

Dave Riggler’s Stories

Author: Brian Hartman

Challenges come to each of us at different moments in our lives. Some are physical and others emotional and each one of us has to decide how we handle these obstacles and roadblocks placed in our paths. Handicaps do not always hold people back. Success comes in many varied and unique ways when determination and perseverance are part of the person’s makeup. Spinda bifida is a birth defect that “involves the incomplete development of the spinal cord or coverings.” Dave Riggler was born with this condition and when detected at birth they do not have problems from it. However, in some cases if it is more severe it can and will make walking and daily activities difficult to do without help. Dave RIggler was born with this illness and from an early age you can tell he was determined to live his life to the fullest no matter what. As author Brian Hartman introduces us to Dave at an early age we learn from the start that he gets around from place to place by crawling. Big brother, Richard, is determined to help him learn to walk before he goes to Kindergarten and the conversation between them is warmhearted, funny and definitely lets the reader know the love they have for each other. With grandmother there explaining to Richard that some things will never happen, like Dave walking, he tells him not to give up on it there is always tomorrow. Next, we meet Dave when he’s meeting with his analyst. He is now in the seventh grade and has developed upper body strength in order to wheel himself around in his chair. He is smart, intelligent, sassy and definitely not a kid to be trifled with, as he explains to the doctor in no uncertain terms the reasons why walking makes him feel more handicapped and why some although some think that getting up to walk is a victory and closer to their definition of normal, to him it is like “suffering a defeat.” The pain and agony required to move his legs and walk is too great a price to pay each time he tries to be like everyone else. Looking less handicapped because he can walk does not really make him feel normal. He says and I quote,” I feel more handicapped and helpless.” Dave Riggler knew himself and understood his limitations and how to deal with them even at this age.

Next, we meet him at the age of 25 in a story titled Last Call where he is having an evening out with a close friend. But, not everyone you are going to meet in this book of 6 stories is physically handicapped. Some are handicapped in other ways like Carole a woman who comes into the bar where he and his friend Lue are having a drink and some great conversation while celebrating his birthday. Dave is definitely a caring person who tries to help others even when they don’t want to help or hear what he is trying to say. Carole is upset. She vents to him about her life, her kids and her feeling of homelessness. Expressing her feelings you get the feeling that she has given up on life and does not see anyway out that would make her feel worthy of being in this world. The startling end you will have to read for yourself and decide just what happens to Carole and why. Surgery is next as Dave goes into the hospital to have a shunt put in and his determination, stamina and great courage shine through as his mother is there with him and he seems to be able to give her the support she needs to know he is going to be okay.

Friendships are rare and hard to cultivate but next we meet Dave and his friend Jeff who discuss work, his friend’s son and how hard he worked at making a great CD for his band and Dave’s feelings towards his job for searching for information for people in an area called Dialog searching which the author explains for the reader in detail. But, this story, titled Tuesday will remind us of what happened on September 11, 2001 as the author relates through Dave the events that took down the Twin Towers and the effect it had on so many. But, what really endears you to Dave is when he meets Ed a homeless man that lost so much because of a simple mistake he was late for work and was fired. Imagine being fired for being 15 minutes late. That 15 minutes cost Ed more than just his job. Dave and Ed seemed to bond and understand each other but when Dave wanted to buy something for him to eat, he was told they would not allow Ed to stay there and had to give him the good outside of Penn Station. Trying to once again help someone overcome his handicap or find a place in this world he gives him a number to call to get help. But, will he read the rest of the story and you decide for yourself what happens to Ed. This is the first part of the last story titled Penned. There is much more. Love at first click on the net! Emails back and forth to determine if someone is right for you before meeting them. Warning signs are often overlooked and many fall into the trap set by online predators or just women looking for love for all the wrong reasons as we meet Pam. Pam is Dave’s online love at least for this story. Meeting her to go to dinner would definitely be enlightening. Warned by Ed to be careful just might be a great piece of advice. As the reader listens to the conversation between Dave and Pam you realize that she is a complainer, nagger and user. Pam complains about her ex, her job and life in general and has only one agenda in mind for a relationship. She is also after Dave or any many for one reason. Just what happens to enlighten Dave and what Pam is really about you have to read in the story Penned. Penned does not only mean Penn Station in this case you just might feel Penned or caged in if you were to meet Pam and stay with her. Just how this plays out and how penned in Dave felt talking to her you have to read for yourself. Will he fall into her trap or will Dave decide to set himself free?

Handicaps do not have to get you down or limit your mobility or successes in life. This is a story of friendship, loyalty, determination and one man named Dave Riggler who had enough faith in himself and determination not to let one handicap get in his way. Life: is too precious and Dave intends to life it! Author Brian Hartman reminds the reader and everyone that people that are handicapped are human and need to be treated like everyone else. People that are homeless need our help and support to find them a place to live and not shun them when we see them on the street. People that use others are truly handicapped and need to find help to release their grip on others. These stories are truly inspiring and a great read.

I dedicate this story to anyone that has ever overcome an obstacle and did not let him or her get it down. I dedicate this to my cousin, Mark Swerdloff, who lost his legs over 40 years ago when a drunk driver sideswiped him on the highway because he was drunk. Mark is a well-known oral surgeon.

The Tangled Web : My review

 The Tangled Web: J.P. Lane

One decision would change the course of more than just the lives of those on this boat. When followed by vessel known as a Cigarette the passengers being followed allowed one man to board on the pretence of wanting some ice. Just what happens in a flash would change the course of events and five lives would be taken but why? One man Logan Armstrong knows the answer but has not revealed why so many had to die at his hand. Back on shore he meets with another man who has information that would further clarify more situations.

The niece of the Minister of France is summoned to her home for a special reason. Asked to deliver a package to London to an unknown recipient Lauren Armstrong has to decide whether to assist her aunt in this mission. Thinking about it she reflects that it has to do with the government but a quick and rash decision cannot be made.

Mike Graham and Logan Armstrong are friends and Mike has some information that is secret and can only be revealed to Logan. Just how all of these webs and threads fit together will only be learned when I continue my review of The Tangled Web which captures the reader’s interest and snares you right into tightly woven web that the author has creatively weaved from the first page. As we get to know Logan and reporter Lauren Anderson the web gets more tangled as each one hopes that the other will reveal information needed to find out what happened to the passengers on the McGuire boat and who is behind the drugs and corruption in the government. One detective would pay the ultimate price as his cover is blown when he realized that cocaine was being transshipped through the port and where and who was involved would revert back to someone close to Logan. Could someone have infiltrated the Criminal Investigation Department and just how far up does it go? How can we link this to the package that Lauren is supposed to deliver for her aunt? When all is said and done will the web get longer or remain so tangled is will never unravel? Lauren invited to meet Logan’s sister and brother-in-law in order to cover their party just might find out more than she bargained for. Next, we meet the Deputy Prime Minister and Frank Sterling the Minister of National Security and Defense. As Lauren relates all of the players are present at this party but just what part do they all play in this web of deceit and lies has yet to be unraveled or revealed.  Mike Graham and Virginia Matthews have a definite history one that she cannot seem to forget. A master at manipulating situations as she managed to get both Lauren and Logan to remain overnight after her huge gala and more of the pieces would start fitting together we hope but just how wait and see as Gordon was sort of blindsided by her when finding out he had house guests.

As Lauren questioned the portrait in the guest room where she spent the night, Logan flashes back to his time at Bishop’s College and the reasons for his expulsion. One parent floored and upset, and the other hoping he will change his ways. Success is what Logan is all about so just maybe he might have learned something. Next, an important player is introduced as we meet the Prime Minister himself Erick Freeman whose morning is destroyed when made aware of a serious situation and decisions involving his three ministers would have to be made. Just what part does he play in all of this and why is his government unable to control all of the crime and murders taking place in his country. Threats were being issued all over to many top officials including the Prime Minister and the head of Criminal Investigations. Slaughters, murders, cover-ups and many lives lost because procedures were not followed, greed got in the way and one Caribbean country became riddled with crime you could barely see through the dense fog and fires that often lit up the sky. C.I.D Chief Inspector Robert Palmer knew that it was by a stroke of luck he had come upon the evidence needed that someone in the government was corrupt and cost his detective his life and he needed to watch more than just his back. Author J.P. Lane has set the stage with her expert craftsmanship and intricate where many players who think they are strong will learn at the hand of others they are not. Some fall prey to the wiles of women while others fall prey to the brilliance of this author who weaves a dangerous plot for each one of them hoping that the maze will allow them a solid path of escape. But, just who comes out alive and who won’t remains to be seen. Who will bring down some powerful government officials and how will they do it? Who is the man that is working with those involved and how will they pull it off in order to bring some respectability back into the country and hopefully rid them of all the drug trafficking. Just who can be trusted? What about the Prime Minister and just what was Lauren’s aunt really into?

The plot really gets more intricate as many other players are brought into it and the reader begins to wonder just who can really be trusted and who was behind the murders of five innocent people that let to more than just their deaths. A seaplane, cigarette boats, Fisherman’s Key and a powerful drug cartel able to buy off some really powerful people added to the suspense is a conversation Lauren over heard that sent her reeling from her aunt’s house. Yet, an invitation from Logan would change it all for both him and Lauren. Would the police end the search for the killers by finding out who is really behind the murders? Would they be able to stop what both sides have planned? Detective Doran is on the case and is trying to sort out what really happened that day that caused five innocent people to be killed at the marina.

The Prime Minister is assassinated and chaos breaks out. Just who decided to take him out you won’t believe. Erick Freeman was not exactly the epitome of what a minister should be nor did he have the ethics one needed for the job. The murder being investigated and two ministers resigned. Logan concerned about Lauren and end game about to be played when a definite twist the plot occurs as the web just might entangle a bit but the ending will leave room for much more. What happens between Logan and Lauren when certain realities come to light? Just who is behind the murders and what will happen to those involved? Where will the killer strike next and just when will the drug cartel be taken down? The answers to these questions will only be answered when you read this fast paced definitely well written book with more surprises than you will expect and an ending that leads the reader to hope that Logan, Lauren and the entire cast of characters might be back for more. Loyalties are tested and friendships are frayed as the truths come out and the police try to close in on a killer. But, will they? Author J.P. Lane keeps the reader on edge from page one until you read the last page and find out the dramatic ending. But, is this over? Only the author knows the answer to that. The Tangled Web: One book that deserves FIVE MORE TANGLES TO KEEP THE PLOT GOING!

Fran Lewis: reviewer

Cry Into the Wind: A True Story

Cry Into the Wind: A True Story

Management Culture

It is great to be able to finish each other’s sentences or even ignore the ten pounds your spouse might have gained but when your sex life becomes lifeless then you need to ref if up and really find out what you can do as the author’s say to get the MIND BLOWING SEX. Imagine the answers and the help are right here in this great book. Keep turning the pages but make sure you read every word. When you’re done you just might turn down the lights, send the kids to a friend’s house or your parents and get under those silk sheets and use this special guide to ignite more than just your sex drive you inner you too. Beginning with what happens outside the bedroom and the factors that hinder your relationship. Anger, emotions, fear, money problems and daily life in general can all play a part on what happens in that room that should be use for more than just snoring and sleeping. Couples that have sex after an argument sometimes have great sex. But couples that stay together in a bad relationship for the great sex should realize that sex is not a permanent fix for staying in an abusive or bad relationship at least not forever. 

Conduct in Question: My review

Conduct in Question: My review

Annie Mouse: Meets a New Friend

Annie Mouse: Meets a New Friend

Annie Mouse Meets a New Friend

The Adventures of Annie Mouse: Annie Mouse Meets a New Friend

Author: Anne M. Slanina

Since this is a special book that teaches friendship I decided to create a unique and special review just for young readers and Annie:

Dear Annie:

Being a true friend requires work. Understanding that not everyone is the same and embracing our differences is a special gift that I noticed you definitely have. School is out and I know that you are looking forward to summer vacation. None of your school friends live close by so you must have been excited when a new family moved in down the path near your home. Molly the Mole seems nice. She loves to play with you and you have accepted the fact that she is blind. But, when school starts Molly is afraid to attend Mouse Field Elementary School. She even tells you that she is afraid that the other kids won’t accept her. Not only is she blind but also she would be the only Mole in the school. Just how would the other mice act when they meet her?

Friendships are tested in many ways. Just what will you do if your friends are mean to her? How do you choose between Molly’s friendship or will you stick with Gina and Mindy? Let’s find out a little more about what happens when they all meet before you decide.

The first day of school will be a definite test for you and your true character. Meeting Mindy and Gina on the playground and at lunch you learn just how mean they can be. They do not want to eat lunch with your new friend and they won’t let her sit at the same table with them. They do not want to include her in any games on the playground. What are you going to do? The next day you do something that really disappointed me too. Poor Annie: How would you solve this problem? That is why I am so glad you turned to me for guidance and help. Listen to your heart and decide how you would feel if you were Molly. “Would real friends make you choose?” Think long and hard before making up your mind. What are you going to do when Gina and Mindy are mean to Molly again? What are you going to do at lunch? What can you learn from Molly? What will happen at the end is up to you!

You have to decide for yourself, Annie. What is the true mark of a real friend? Would a real friend hurt your feelings just to be popular and accepted by the in crowd? Would a real friend stand aside while others hurt you? Find out what Annie does and if she digs deep in her heart and listens to my advice and answers the questions put forth before making her final choice and deciding whether she wants Mindy and Gina as friends or Molly.

I am here if you need me. Close your eyes and pray and ask for me to come;

Your own Guardian Angel

Author and educator Anne M. Slanina asks the reader to define meaning of a true friend. Questions such are where do you place are loyalties is a great discussion question. She brings out the fact that some kids do not accept others that are different and can be really mean. Many lesson area learned in this book. This is a great book to teach kindness, understanding, friendship and love to students. It is great that the author shows the reader how Molly can use her other senses to see the world. The illustrations help tell the story and young readers can look at the pictures and create the story in their minds. They are colorful, cure and bring Annie and her friends to life for everyone. Character Education is important and so many lessons can be taught using this book. Adults just might learn something too. Annie: It is all up to you to decide what is right.

You friend: Fran Lewis: reviewer, educator and fan of Annie the Mouse.

FIVE GOLDEN GUARDIAN ANGELS