Blog Archives
Wrath and Reckoning
When I picked up Wrath and Reckoning, I expected a tight political thriller, and that’s exactly what I got. The story follows Max Kenworth and his team as they chase after the elusive mercenary Bart Madison and a missing nuclear weapon. Layered into that chase are power-hungry politicians, corrupt deals, shadowy agencies, and a relentless undertone of betrayal. From Arlington Cemetery to Central America to secret meetings in hotel rooms, the book moves quickly. Every chapter pushes the stakes higher. It’s less about quiet deduction and more about the terrifying weight of what-ifs: a nuclear device in the wrong hands, politicians who gamble lives for power, and operatives caught between duty and survival.
I really enjoyed the book’s pace. Parker doesn’t give you room to breathe. Scenes cut fast, and dialogue snaps like a whip. Sometimes it felt like a military briefing, other times like eavesdropping on a whispered conspiracy. That intensity pulled me in. The writing style is direct, sharp, and often blunt. I liked that honesty. You don’t get purple prose here. You get grit, strategy, and straight talk. The moments between Max and Danya, or Gail’s uneasy alliances, offered glimpses of vulnerability that I craved more of. Those human flashes made the gunfire and secret deals hit harder.
Madison is a ruthless figure, and Parker paints him as cunning, resourceful, and frighteningly pragmatic. He’s the kind of character who makes your skin crawl because he feels believable. Meanwhile, the politicians strutted like clowns, reeking of smugness and deceit. Part of me enjoyed that exaggeration. It made the story’s critique of corruption unmistakable. The line between good and bad sometimes felt too sharp. Still, the moral weight of the book, how power twists people, how ambition corrodes, landed with me.
Wrath and Reckoning is the kind of book I’d recommend to readers who like high-stakes thrillers with a military and political edge. If you want a story that keeps the throttle down and doesn’t let go, this will scratch that itch. It’s not for someone looking for subtle literary flourishes or deep psychological portraits. But if you want a fast, tense, and conspiratorial ride, Parker delivers. I closed the book feeling unsettled, a little wired, and already wondering what Max Kenworth will be up against next.
Pages: 249 | ASIN : B0FKRYGQD9
Special Bond
Where’s My Wabby Dabby? follows a young girl looking for her father, who is away on a trip, as she asks all the animals in her yard where her Wabby Dabby is. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for this book came from a time when my husband was fighting COVID. He was in the hospital, and we were only able to talk to him on the phone and on FaceTime. My husband called one night, and we saw COVID winning the battle, but our faith in the Lord kept us strong. My husband called my granddaughter his Eva wava little baby. She was very emotional and called him her wabby dabby. When I heard that, I decided to create a story about their bond, showing how she would go out and speak to animals to see where her wabby dabby went. At the time, we weren’t sure if my husband would come home, but we prayed and believed God for a miracle. He came home. It was a long road to recovery, but he was home. The same way we were unsure he would come home, I wanted to create this story for those children who maybe one of their parents were absent, and they can use their imagination to remember something special about them, which would give them peace and comfort.
What was your writing process to ensure you captured the essence of Eva and the animals she talked to?
Discovery–I observed their special bond, which prompted me to start drafting and editing.
What was your favorite scene in this story?
When Eva is in her bedroom and she hears her wabby dabby’s voice say, “Goodnight, my Ava wava little baby.”
What is the next book you’re working on, and when can fans expect it?
My next book is in the illustration stage, and it’s called The Night We Followed the Moon. I’m not sure when it will be finished.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
Universal Theme of Love
Bella & Chantey: Mama Wants a Blue Mushroom follows a pig and her macaw sidekick as they set out on a rainforest adventure to find a rare mushroom. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
We work with the Ngäbe people who live on the Comarca or reservation where I had the story take place. The children do not have children’s books per se, and I wanted to write some stories for them and include their environment.
What is it that draws you to write children’s literature?
I love to watch young children learn about new places, different countries, and people in the world. I also enjoy seeing children being entertained and laughing over stories. I place educational material in the backmatter of my books to educate the children besides giving them an entertaining story. I also try to have a universal theme of love, family, or learning experience that children can see themselves in or identify with the story.
The artwork in your book is wonderful. What was the collaboration with illustrator César Meléndez like?
César is excellent to work with. He has unique ideas for illustrations and is very realistic in his drawings. He has emotions in animal faces and does a fantastic job with water scenes. He asks for suggestions and always asks if they are ok. An excellent fit between author and illustrator- we think alike.
Can fans expect to see more adventures featuring Bella and Chantey? What are you currently working on?
I am working on a chapter book with main characters from the Ngäbe Comarca, Double Trouble on the Comarca. Benny the Boa is an adapted Ngäbe folklore story, which is almost completed, and yes, a second book with Bella and Chantey, also taking place on the Comarca.
I had some people from a nearby church ask if I could write a children’s bible story picture book, so I have done that, and it is currently at a traditional editor to see whether they will accept it. Another editor I work with said if it’s not accepted, go ahead and self-publish it because she likes the story.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Bella & Chantey: Mama Wants a Blue Mushroom
Bella & Chantey: Mama Wants a Blue Mushroom is a quirky jungle adventure with a heartwarming twist. It’s the story of Bella, a determined little pig, and her macaw sidekick, Chantey, as they embark on a mission to find a special blue mushroom for Bella’s mother’s birthday. The journey takes them through the lush, mysterious rainforest of the Ngäbe-Buglé Comarca, past a grumpy black panther, and into the fantastical Land of Mushrooms. Along the way, they encounter colorful creatures, tricky riddles, and challenges that test their courage.
What I loved most about this children’s book was its charm. Bella’s personality shines through, especially with her dramatic “oh dear” moments. Like when she nervously tackles a suspension bridge blindfolded or builds a raft to cross a river because she can’t swim, each scene feels relatable and funny in that “overcoming your fears” kind of way. Chantey’s witty remarks, like reminding Bella to stop eating every mushroom in sight, add just the right amount of humor. It’s these little interactions that make their friendship feel so real and delightful.
The illustrations by César Meléndez absolutely stole the show for me. The rainforest scenes, with vibrant plants and exotic animals like giant anteaters and purple snakes, are nothing short of magical. The pages where they finally find the indigo milk cap mushroom, with its vivid blue “bleeding” juice, are amazing. The art pulls you into this lush world and adds so much depth to the story. Honestly, I found myself flipping back just to soak it all in again.
One thing that caught me by surprise was how the story introduced cultural elements, like the reference to Urracá, a Ngäbe warrior. It’s such a thoughtful way to teach kids about history while keeping the tone light and adventurous. Plus, there’s a handy mushroom facts section at the end, which is both fun and educational. Did you know some mushrooms glow in the dark? It’s clear that the author wanted this book to be more than just a story. It’s a window into the beauty of Panama’s rainforest and the importance of respecting nature. What makes this book even more special is that it’s a bilingual story, with text in both English and Spanish, making it a fantastic way for kids to learn or enjoy two languages while diving into Bella and Chantey’s adventure.
I think this picture book is a gem. It’s perfect for kids who love adventure and animals, and it’s a great pick for parents who want a story that sparks curiosity about the environment and other cultures. I’d recommend it for bedtime reading or as a fun gift for young explorers.
ASIN : B0BSRCVF16
Emotional Trauma & Healing
Of Ashes and Dust follows a Vietnam Veteran, now a professor, who is haunted by his past only to discover as the world is headed to Armageddon that the conspiracy theories he questioned are, in fact, truth and nothing is as it seemed. What was the inspiration for the setup of your novel?
There’s an obvious long-term cover-up by the US Government regarding the existence of ETs & UFOs, dating back to 1947. This, in part, served as an impetus for my “inspiration” to weave this narrative thread into the story arc. Also, I work with US military retirees, combat vets, many suffering from PTSD, as well as having served in the Army myself. This also added impetus to incorporate these elements into the plot.
The relationships that the characters form and, ultimately, the betrayals hook readers into watching everything unfold. What was your approach to writing the interactions between characters?
It came naturally. I’ve lived the majority of my life overseas having worked with the US military during almost all this time. Dealing with stress-related combat vets almost daily has led me to come face-to-face with their problems, often getting personally involved with their emotional trauma & healing.
What was the chosen theme of the novel, or did it develop organically as you were writing?
It pretty much “develop[ed] organically.” The story, except for one or two events toward the end, naturally unfolded for me. Wish all story arcs would do that!
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
Working on publishing a chapbook (small poetry book), then a children’s book, and then the sequel to Of Ashes and Dust (OAAD). The OAAD sequel will most likely be more psychologically-driven & deeply delving into the troubled mindset of the protagonist & first-person narrator, Prof. Will Watson, rather than mostly event-driven as in the original.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
Their tale traces back to two covert operations from the Vietnam War era–a revelation about UFOs from the U.S. Air Force and the clandestine Project Sixty-Seven.
At the heart of the story is Professor Will Watson–a war-ravaged Vietnam veteran, a fervent activist of the New Hampshire Liberty Militia, and a man haunted by specters of his past. As the world edges toward Armageddon, he seeks solace in the arms of his Japanese graduate student assistant, Kimiko Tanimoto. Amidst escalating pursuit by the State Police and FBI, Watson is confronted with the harsh realities of his traumatic past and the imminent downfall of a world crumbling around him.
However, the truth about his “friendship” with Mark Mercotti, a fellow militia member with a hidden sexuality, proves to be more sinister. During their service in VIetnam, Mercotti had Watson enlisted in the enigmatic Project Sixty-Seven and arranged for a covert implant to be placed in Watson’s head. This unsettling revelation forces Watson to question his sanity, but he soon learns that Mercotti’s web of deceit runs deeper.
As Watson navigates the aftermath of his military service, he stumbles upon a reality beyond his wildest dreams: the implant was a government ploy to monitor him. Meanwhile, Mercotti is far from the friend he claims to be. His conspiracies are more than mere theories; they’re cold, hard facts.
“Of Ashes and Dust” is a relentlessly intense tale of alternate history set against the backdrop of global Armageddon. It’s a thrilling exploration of conspiracy, survival, and unforgiving intrigue, culminating in a finale as explosive as it is unexpected.
Ghost of the Rio Grande
Ghost of the Rio Grande, by Don Allen Holbrook, is a riveting historical fiction novel inspired by true events, shedding light on the complex interactions between Americans and Mexicans in the early 1900s. Set in 1915, the story centers on Fabriciano Garcia, a cattle herder living in South Texas, whose life takes a dramatic turn during a tumultuous period of land disputes and cultural clashes.
Fabriciano’s troubles begin when a notorious land grabber, William Johnson, covets his land. During a confrontation, Fabriciano kills one of William’s rangers to protect his community, forcing him to flee to avoid certain retaliation. Leaving behind his beloved wife, Manuela, and their children, Fabriciano embarks on a journey of survival and resistance. On his journey, Fabriciano saves François LaBorde from an assassination attempt, forging a strong bond between them. Fabriciano soon becomes involved with a group of cattle rustlers, earning a reputation for his cunning and ability to evade capture. Known as “The Ghost,” he becomes a legendary figure, adept at avoiding his hunters.
Together, François and Fabriciano play crucial roles in thwarting Germany’s plot to incite a war between Mexico and the United States during World War I. Fabriciano emerges as a fascinating character, embodying the qualities of a family man, a romantic, a brave protector, and a loyal friend. His unwavering commitment to protecting his people, regardless of whether they are family or not, makes him a compelling hero. The novel effectively portrays the hostility between Mexicans and Americans, especially along the Texas-Mexico border, where territorial disputes were rampant. Through Fabriciano’s eyes, readers gain insights into the historical events that shaped North America’s history.
Holbrook’s storytelling is fast-paced and engaging, with events unfolding rapidly to keep readers hooked. The character development is robust, and the exploration of historical context adds depth to the narrative. The book is not only entertaining but also enlightening, providing valuable historical insights into World War I and the intricate dynamics between the countries involved.
Ghost of the Rio Grande is a captivating novel that offers a blend of adventure, history, and rich character portrayals. It is a highly recommended read for anyone interested in historical fiction that both entertains and educates.
Pages: 352 | ASIN : B0BMCSKYRK
Do What You Love
On Wahoo Reef follows a PR executive from Atlanta who quits his job to open a scuba diving operation in the Caribbean. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
In twenty-plus years of working as a scuba instructor and boat captain in the Caribbean, I’ve met a lot of visiting divers who fantasize about doing just that, without realizing how much hard work goes into running a small business in the tropics. Something’s always breaking. Something’s always going wrong. Nothing works the way it should. Getting parts from the hardware store isn’t an option when there is no hardware store. The pretty beaches, palm trees, and hammocks are for tourists.
Many readers will be able to identify with Wally. Are there any emotions or memories from your own life that you put into your character’s life?
Some of Wally’s predicaments are so close to real life, I winced as I wrote them. The dread of opening the boat’s engine compartment every morning to see what broke overnight. Will we be able to cover payroll at the end of the week? It costs how much to repair that? But there are good memories, too, the reasons you stay in spite of all that. I drew on those for the scuba diving scenes, for the nightlife scenes, and for making the island itself a character in the book.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Do what you love, and keep doing it no matter what obstacles pop up to complicate things. Every job has complications and negative aspects, but if you’re doing what you love, they’re worth the trouble.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
In a Sandy Lie’s protagonist is an unqualified land surveyor sent to Blacktip Island to scout land, on the sly, for golf course construction. He discovers the island is geologically useless for golf, but sends back glowing, bogus reports while using the company expense account to have an extended stay in the tropics. It’s a small island, so the locals know he’s hiding something, and concoct all kinds of wild rumors to explain his motives and doings. More comic misadventure in the same vein as On Wahoo Reef. It will be available as soon as I can get it finished.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Wally Breight’s a miserable-in-his-job P.R. executive who dreams of escaping to happily-ever-after in the Caribbean. When he stumbles across a run-down scuba diving operation for sale on Blacktip Island, he snaps it up and settles into paradise. But paradise has other ideas. His dive boat’s a lemon. His business partner proves the age of piracy isn’t dead. Scuba guests are scarce. And a free-spirited dive mistress might party him into an early grave. If Wally can’t get a handle on paradise, pronto, he’ll be leaving Blacktip Island faster than a coconut in a hurricane.
Torn
Vizard: An Ember Files Side Story follows a courageous thirteen-year-old girl whose entire family has been murdered and who must now go into hiding to survive. What inspired the setup of your story?
Juniper Berry is a character that’s in every novel in The Ember Files series, although this isn’t immediately apparent to the reader because lives her life in various guises. She is a master of disguise—a vizard—and she’s secretive, which gives her an air of mystery. Her story formed in my mind while I was writing Chimera and Curses. As I was writing, I realized there were a lot of unknowns about her that readers would be curious about and that there was more to her character that I still wanted to create and share. So, I marked the idea of her story with a working title—Torn—to be written as a prequel toThe Ember Files.
Juniper is forced to grow up quickly when her family is killed. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
I don’t consciously write with ideals and tropes in mind. With Vizard, I wanted to create a strong heroine whose strength came from deep inside her, giving her resilience and determination. Love, justice, and compassion are some ideals that Juniper Berry struggles with before they become an ingrained part of her personality.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Family, as a theme, runs through the entire Ember Files series. Juniper Berry’s experience of family is complicated: tangled with love, justice, and revenge. As a result, the paradigm of good versus evil is a theme that is built right into Juniper Berry’s internal struggles and growth; there is potential in her character to become either. The possibility for these extremes within her is part of what drives her and the story. I picked the working title, Torn, to write this story under because it described Juniper Berry and the struggles of her life. It represents being pulled apart, being uncertain, and the conflict between those uncertainties with the extreme being a woman who lives multiple lives wearing a disguise.
Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?
Juniper Berry’s story leads into the first book in The Ember Files, The Ember Stone, which occurs forty years after Vizard. Although Juniper Berry is no longer the main character, bits of her story continue to be revealed in the next books—the last book in the series is scheduled for release in July. The events and characters throughout the series intertwine with her story.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
A brutal deed forever alters the rules of survival.
Few Spellbinders know of the kill list’s existence; a list that marks multiple families for death. In the wake of one savage attack, there’s a survivor. Juniper Berry, a thirteen-year-old girl, without options, enters a cloak-and-dagger life—forced to care for herself. She plots a course of retribution. Her plan lands her in a world of intrigues and hazards that threaten to overwhelm the already unstable facts of her identity. As Juniper Berry’s noose tightens around her enemies, fate continues to take swings. What begins as a relationship of necessity becomes so much more—an unfortunate pattern—and Juniper Berry finds herself torn between irreconcilable lives.
LITERARY TITAN 