Railway to Murder by Danny J. Bradbury

 

Buck Greene, a man disillusioned by the war, embarks on a journey westward in search of a new beginning. His path is littered with the ghosts of the men he once led, driving him to seek a change of scenery. The news of the expanding transcontinental railroad fuels his aspirations, inspiring him to be part of a movement that could mend a fractured nation.

As Buck travels toward his destination, he stumbles upon the murdered body of one of the railroad workers. Shocked, he learns that this is not the first murder. With dogged persistence, he inserts himself into the investigation, racing against time to solve the crime. Can Buck stop the killers before it's too late and assert himself as a bonafide Railroad Special Agent?

Railway to Murder is the first in the Buck Greene, Railroad Special Agent, Mysteries series. If you enjoy a murder mystery set in the heady times after the American Civil War, you’ll love Danny J. Bradbury’s novel.

Get your copy today.

 

 

Danny J. Bradbury

 I have been writing historical fiction novels since I retired from the Insurance industry. I have a lifelong love of history and enjoy sharing my accumulated knowledge. I was born and raised in Colorado and Wyoming. I served in the U.S. Navy. My wife and I currently live in South Carolina. We have three grown daughters and four grandchildren.

 Amazon Reviewer

This is the author's first journey the mystery genre and it was a success. I will first state thar I received this book as an ARC with no anticipation of a positive review.

I loved the writing style that gave me the ability to picture every character and action in my mind as you moved smoothly from chapter to chapter. Each Chapter averaged 4 to 5 pages.

The main character Buck Greene is pulled in solving a series of Murders as the railroad moves West. His challenges include weather, rough railroad workers, wild Native Americans and much more.

There are many twists and turns until you get to the final chapter and an unexpected ending.

Highly recommend. This was my first time reading this author.

 

Content Rating:

 

Drug - G no drug use

Language - G clean

Violence - PG13  

Moral - Perseverance in the face of adversity can lead to justice. Understanding different perspectives and overcoming prejudices can lead to deeper connections and solutions.

Links: 

Amazon: https://books2read.com/u/3JB5OE 

Twitter:@DanBradbury52

 

Really? At Your Age?: A Better Late Romance by Jacqueline Diamond~By Chris Solaas @Lynvi

 

Really? At Your Age?: A Better Late Romance 

by Jacqueline Diamond

At 52, the doctor dares set her sights on love and motherhood!

Survivor of a painful divorce, Dr. Cody Matchett has a fulfilling medical career but no children. After a quake rattles her small town, she’s jolted into considering the fate of her frozen embryos—along with her long-simmering attraction to hospital attorney Ben Wright.

But as Cody seeks a lasting love and family, she and Ben uncover shocking secrets. Then there’s the tricky task of choosing a surrogate... a role for which Ben’s grown daughter volunteers!

My Take:

Dr. Cody Matchett appears to have it all together - a solid career in medicine at a local hospital in her small childhood California town. But appearances can be deceiving. She's managed to keep the attraction she has for the hospital attorney Ben Wright under control, since he's still loyal to his toxic wife murdered in a robbery. As if that weren't enough, Cody is 52 and can't have children, children she desperately longs for. A minor earthquake rattles Cody into considering the prospect of taking action on the six precious fragile frozen embryos she has in the vault. And it involves Ben too, as not only is his daughter being considered as surrogate mother to carry those embryos to term, he's the donor father for them as well!

As Cody tries to open dialogue with Ben about the embryos, Ben struggles with the attraction he feels for Cody, knowing that a relationship with her will prove difficult, as he's signed away any rights to the children they may have. And shocking secrets are about to hit the media that will upset both their lives.

 Content:

Drug Content:
PG – There's some drinking in this, bottles of alcohol in the fridge, casual drinking. A minor character has a drug addiction and makes bad choices that lead to disaster. 
 
Violence:
G – A murder occurred in the past, other than that, there's nothing at all.
 
Language:
PG – There are a few mild swear words.
 
Adult Content:
PG – There's adultery, pregnancy out of wedlock, discussion of fertility technology and sterilization surgery. There's a kiss or two but nothing further on screen.
 
Christian content:
Not much. There's some discussion of God, and a few characters pray. Still, there are positive character traits on display, such as loyalty, fidelity, diligence, and self-sacrifice. There are negative character traits as well, infidelity, murder, lying, and the like. Plenty of life as we know it.

 
Final Analysis:
I'm not usually a fan of lighthearted romances, but this one had me spellbound throughout. I can see why Jacqueline Diamond is a bestselling author. This book was well-written. The dialogue was on point, the settings were immersive, and the emotion raw and tangible. The characters were believable and the stakes were high. I found myself fully invested in the main characters and their struggles, unable to put the book down until the last page. I look forward to reading more by this author. Five Stars!

About the Author:

USA Today bestselling author Jacqueline Diamond has more than 100 novels to her name! A former Associated Press reporter and TV columnist, Jackie is best known for her Safe Harbor Medical romances (17 in all) and mysteries (four so far).

She is currently writing a series of romances about three sisters, all over 50, finding or rediscovering love. They are part of the Better Late collection of romantic comedies by Jackie and several other authors. Jackie's first romance in the series is Really? At Your Age?

Jackie has been honored with a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award. She and her husband, who have two grown sons, live in Southern California. You can learn more about her books at www.jacquelinediamond.net, where you can sign up for her free monthly newsletter. You can contact Jackie at JacquelineDiamondAuthor on Facebook or as @jacquediamond on Twitter.

 

A Common Man: The extraordinary tale of an ordinary 21st Century businessman from South Carolina who attempts to stop the assassination of Abraham Lincoln

 

The extraordinary tale of an ordinary 21st Century businessman from South Carolina who attempts to stop the assassination of Abraham Lincoln.

 William Campbell is a modern, middle-aged business man who lives in upstate South Carolina along with his wife Linda. William is an average man who feels he has not left his mark on the world. A student of history and an avid reader, he has often wondered how the South would have fared at the end of the American Civil War had Abraham Lincoln been allowed to serve out the rest of his second term and prevent the damaging effects of reconstruction to the Southern states and how that has affected race relations ever since.

After having a particularly bad day at the office, William takes a walk to clear his mind, and subsequently suffers a massive heart attack and blacks out. He awakens to a large crowd of people trying to help him as he lies in the street. He is confused by the dress and manner of these people, and as he is being examined by the local doctor, comes to the uneasy realization that he has been transported back to 1865. As the reality of this sinks in, he realizes that he has been given a golden opportunity to prevent the assassination of Abraham Lincoln.

Over the next three months, William takes a harrowing journey north, at times by himself, and other times assisted by all manner of people. It is a journey of self-discovery and peril, testing the very limits of what he can endure to complete his mission.

As William travels on foot, by wagon, and train, he comes into contact with a population that has been impacted by four years of war. He is soon given the precious gift of a few days in Washington to plan out how he will prevent the assassination. During this time, he becomes emboldened by his prospects, and even though he wants to make it back to his family, he knows that he can’t fail in his mission.

The rest, as they say, is history...or is it?

~Amazon Customer Review~ 

When an ordinary man is transported to the past in an isekai-like manner (as we wonder if he's really dead???), he grasps for purpose and meaning in his odd situation, with no prospects at finding a way home.

In a concise setup that put me in mind of Stephen King's 11/22/63, William makes it his mission to stop the assassination of Lincoln. After all, he's the only one who possibly can!

The story was a fun cat and mouse chase up through New England as William sacrifices his health, relative modern innocence, and time to beat John Wilkes Booth to that fated moment of murder, with suspicious agents of the South's military hot on his trail.

Packed with intriguing historical details and a fresh perspective on what it really might have been like during the Civil War, this is a great read for fans of historical time travel fantasies!

Ratings 

 Drug content: None 

Violence: Non-graphic battle, but suspense with danger.

Adult content: PG 

Language: No cursing, 

Religious or Moral: Moral...determination and purpose, sacrifice, responsibility and courage.

About the author

Danny J. Bradbury

I have been writing historical fiction novels since I retired from the Insurance industry. I have a lifelong love of history and enjoy sharing my accumulated knowledge. I was born and raised in Colorado and Wyoming. I served in the US Navy. My wife and I have three grown daughters and two grandsons.

 

Links

Amazon

https://books2read.com/u/3LdgRw

Twitter

@DanBradbury52 

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT: YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING! By Racheal Jamerson

This book contains a collection of Vignettes compiled by the author. They represent personal experiences but are not intended to reference any particular individual. Unless otherwise noted, the Articles are fictional strictly the author's opinion and premised on her own life experiences.

CATEGORIES INCLUDE America, Family, Spirituality, and Short Stories covering a variety of life experiences including award-winning articles. Material was complied for family but is available to any who wish to read it.

Racheal Jamerson

About the author

I have been writing for twenty-five years. My favorite resource is scripture. A hunger for God’s Word took me to the campus of Precepts International in Chattanooga, Tennessee. There I learned the Inductive Bible Study method, which completely changed the way I view scripture.

I served for five plus years in a local chapter of CONTACT USA. While there I served on the board of directors and as a crisis line specialist. In addition I am certified by the American Association of Christian Counselors in Caring for People God’s Way. I remained an active member until 2005. I am currently retired.

After becoming a Christian, my desire to write and quest for answers were dedicated to understanding God’s message to man. What exactly was He saying and why were there so many different interpretations? As a result, I became an avid student of scripture. My book ‘Spiritual Compass’ contains excerpts from various articles written over the years. It also takes the reader on a simple walk through the Word of God and offers insights derived from the personal journey of others.

I am a widowed grandmother of eight, retired and living in Southwestern Virginia.

Review

This was a very interesting read! It is based on the Author's personal thoughts and interpretation of the Bible and I found it to be very thought provoking.

At one point I got chills while reading. As I began from where I had left off the night before, the words on the page were almost identical to a prayer between myself and God the previous night! I was astounded! I wondered how it was possible! Had I read farther the night before than I realized? But no. It was a prayer that I had been talking to God about for weeks prior to reading this book.

I haven't yet processed the odds of reasoning behind this coincidence, but the word for word similarity to my prayers has certainly resonated with me!

While it is possible that not everyone will agree with this Author's thoughts and interpretations, I feel that every one of those same people will come away with something useful and helpful in their day to day lives!

It is an easy read and well written. In my humble opinion, it appeared to be well researched, and written with the intent to not only be a guide throughout life alongside the Bible to her family but to anyone else that finds this book in their hands.

I could feel the Author's love for her family shining through the pages!

Content Rating  

Drugs: None

Language: None

Violence: None other than one story contains a mild domestic encounter.

Adult: None

Moral: The power of personal reflection and faith can create profound moments of connection, where our deepest thoughts align with the words of others in unexpected ways. Even if perspectives differ, we can all find wisdom and inspiration through shared experiences and the heartfelt intentions of others.

 

Link: https://books2read.com/u/38lxGd

Clement: Land of the Zagwe Kings ~ by Craig Hipkins

Clement and Dagena return for another adventure. This time, they journey to Abyssinia on a quest to find a holy relic, and the legendary colony of Prester John.

 

 

About the author

Craig R. Hipkins grew up in Hubbardston Massachusetts. He is the author of medieval and gothic fiction. His novel Adalbert is the sequel to Astrolabe written by his late twin brother Jay S. Hipkins (1968-2018)

He is an avid long distance runner and enjoys astronomy in his spare time.

Review: 

In the fourth Clement book, we accompany Clement and Dagena on an exciting journey to Abyssinia, where they seek a unique relic and explore the mysteries of Prester John's colony. Set in medieval times, the story features Clement, a Templar Knight, exemplifying strong moral values such as loyalty, generosity, and duty, along with some good old mischief. Clement: Land of the Zagwe Kings is an engaging blend of adventure, chivalry, and romance suitable for all ages.

Content Rating:

Drug Content: PG- Only wine. This story takes place in medieval times where everyone, including children, drank wine. 

Violence PG- Nothing gory, however Clement does use his sword with effectiveness. 

Language G- No profanity. 

Adult Content- G- There is a romance between Clement and Dagena but only a few puppy love kisses. 

Christian Content: Clement is a Templar Knight, despite his youthfulness. Therefore, he is a follower of Christ and the Pope. Clement is morally straight, loyal to his friends, generous and giving in true Christian fashion.

Links 

Twitter: @CraigHipkins

Amazon: https://books2read.com/u/mKVgVy

Website:  hipkinstwins.com

Blog: crhipkins.blogspot.com

Things He Hadn't Told Her by Vicky Whedbee

Review By Chris Solaas: Things He Hadn't Told Her by Vicky Whedbee

Things He Hadn't Told Her

by Vicky Whedbee

Chad Edwards & Cole Rivers have been best friends since grade school. "Blood brothers forever" they declared, after Chad saved Cole's life. Years later in college at the University of Tennessee, Chad is a student of Sports Medicine, and Cole is the Vol's star quarterback. That's where they meet Maggie Thompson. Ask either one of them and they would tell you, "Maggie is perfect". So, it's no surprise they both fall in love with her. As fate would have it, Maggie falls in love too, but only one of them is the recipient of her affections. It's what happens next that will surprise you.
They made a pact as boys. Can they keep that pact as men?

My Take:

Chad Edwards saved Cole Rivers' life one day when he pulled him from a flood-swollen and dangerous river. Since that time, Chad has been looking out for Cole, making sure he doesn't flunk his classes and get tossed off the football team. Quietly making sure his reputation isn't ruined. Cole is destined for greatness, a star quarterback in High School who goes on to QB the Tennessee Vols in college. Chad, who wants to go into sports medicine, follows him there, and continues to keep Cole out of trouble. It seems that nothing could come between these two friends.

Except, perhaps, Maggie.

Beautiful, talented, compassionate, and full of life, Maggie is perfect. And Chad quickly falls for her. But Maggie falls for Cole. Devastated, Chad has to decide whether to keep his true feelings secret, hurt the two people he loves best, or quietly fade away.

Content:

Drug Content:

G - There is a little casual drinking in a few places.

Violence:

PG - Tragic accidents leave people somewhat mangled. There is no intentional harm done here. No graphic descriptions either.

Language:

PG - There are a few scattered mild expletives.

Adult Content:

G - There is romance and some kissing. 

Christian content:

The characters in this book struggle with where God is in their suffering, but remain steadfast in their faith. Church attendance is encouraged, and nightly prayers with the family are present occasionally. Prayer for healing and safety are not uncommon. Discussion is made about people being in heaven when they die. The raw conflict, self-sacrifice, and ensuing depth of character in the protagonist is stunning. 

Final analysis:

Things He Hadn't Told Her by Vicky Whedbee is a heartwarming tale of unrequited love. The characters have tragic real-life struggles and deal with them in a faith-filled and realistic way. The settings are immersive, and the dialogue engaging. The author has a talent for drawing on common emotional situations, and depicting them well enough to bring even an old granddad like me to tears.  This book covered multiple years of interaction in the main characters. During the first half of the novel, the level of detail in the interactions and experiences of the characters was a bit overwhelming, but it set a gorgeous backdrop for the back half of the story, when things really took off. I was well satisfied with the end, and thought Vicky Whedbee did an excellent job carrying the reader through. Good plot, excellent characters, raw emotions and a heartwarming conclusion. Five Stars!

About the Author:

Vicky Whedbee was born and raised in Daytona Beach, Florida, where she resided until her 40's when she relocated to San Mateo, Florida, where she currently resides with her husband. An avid reader, she wrote her first novel over a period of years as a labor of love and fulfillment of a life long dream that began with the encouragement of her Engish teacher in high school.
With a diagnosis of cancer for her dad, she decided to become an independent author and published her novel on her own in order to present a finished product to her father before his demise. She was in the process of reading said novel, "Things He Hadn't Told Her", to him at the time of his passing.
She wrote her second novel "Sarah's Song", which was a collaboration with her father set in the time of his childhood in the rural Appalachian mountains, with notes taken prior to his demise. Both books have been met with stellar 5-STAR reviews on Amazon & Goodreads, as well as awarded the 5-star review seal from Reader's Favorite.
After numerous requests, she wrote a sequel to Sarah's Song, titled Sarah's Home, which could also be read as a stand-alone. It, too, is being received with love and 5-STAR reviews.
She is currently working on her next novel.
Visit & contact her through her website https://crwvao.wixsite.com/vickywhedbee

Check out  Chris Solaas' blog at https://christianindiebookreviews.blogspot.com/p/interviews.html

 

Hidden Danger: Christian Romantic Suspense (Discipleship series Book 1) by Gail Pallotta

After Emily Hanover’s left standing at the altar in Blue Mountain, North Carolina, she goes to Sky High Campground to put her life back together. Because it’s February and few people come here this time of year, she’s alone on the premises. When noises in the middle of the night frighten her, she gathers her courage and peeks outside. A man carrying a body over his shoulder emerges from the dark shadows onto her front yard. Horrified, she collapses onto the floor.

The next morning, she visits ex-military officer turned security guard, Nick Lancaster. He listens intently to Emily, but dismisses her claim of foul play as a hunter carrying a deer. Finally, after he sees a freshly dug hole in Emily’s yard and finds two more in the woods, he agrees—there’s suspicious activity. Then he and Emily embark on a mission exposing murder and a far-reaching sinister plot, neither suspecting danger can bring romance.

 About the author

Award-winning author Gail Pallotta is a wife, mom, swimmer and bargain shopper who loves God, beach sunsets and getting together with friends and family. She's a former Grace Awards finalist, a 2017 Reader's Favorite Book Awards recipient and a TopShelf 2020 Book Awards Finalist. She's published six books, poems, short stories and two-hundred articles. Some of her articles appear in anthologies while two are in museums. Visit Gail’s website at gailpallotta.com

READER’S FAVORITE 5-STAR REVIEW FOR BARELY ABOVE WATER

reviewed by Deborah Stone (Sept. 19, 2016)

"Barely Above Water by Gail Pallotta has a powerful and heart wrenching message that we all need to hear. Suzie has something wrong with her, but no one seems to know what. Without a diagnosis, she is perceived, by some, to be lazy and complaining. No medical doctor has been able to help, so Suzie takes a giant leap of faith and trusts God to lead her. She moves to Florida to see an alternative medicine doctor that once helped her mother's friend. With no job, she relies on God and her savings while she looks for work. She ends up taking a summer-only job coaching a make-shift swim team with inexperienced swimmers. Although temporary, it will keep her going through the summer while she looks for other opportunities to support herself and pay for her treatments. Suzie meets Matt, the Park and Recreation Director and her new boss. When more than a work relationship begins to develop, Suzie feels she must tell Matt about her illness. Will he stand by her or walk away? Is telling him a risk that Suzie is willing to take?

Gail Pallotta introduces us to a world with options when it comes to taking care of our bodies. She speaks with authority on the subject because she understands it first hand. Gail Pallotta's characters are real and convincing because they come from a place of understanding. Gail's love story is fragile and tender, but with an inner strength that comes from trust and faith in God. Gail Pallotta's story is inspiring and resonates with hope when all hope seems to be gone. A lovely story with well-defined and well developed characters, and a story line with factual information that will help, or at least educate, readers.”

Content Rating

Drug: There are no drugs in the book. Lots of coffee and some tea.

Language: There is no foul language in the book. Just a bit of humor.

Violence: There are no violent scenes. However, murders occur off-scene and there’s one dead body investigation.

Adult: The book is for an adult general audience, women and men. It’s Christian Romantic Suspense (Discipleship Series Book 1)

Moral: It’s a Christian book with a new twist. The theme is discipleship.

Amazon: https://books2read.com/u/bPGvll