Tag: westerns

Smoke on the Wind (Land Run Book Two) by Syvila Weatherford Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A cowboy and his Native American bride seek freedom and community in the novel “Smoke on the Wind” by Syvila Weatherford.

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The Synopsis

“Smoke on the Wind” is a captivating tale that weaves the perils and dangers encountered on the Western frontier by Will Lawton, a young Black cowboy, after kidnapping then wedding his young Native American bride, Niabi. He plods a path packed with uncertainty that ultimately winds its way to an unthinkable opportunity – a race for free land.

Follow the characters of Smoke: the beautiful Louisa Ortega, who haunts the memory of the Chief’s son, Nashoba; Captain Horton, head of Fort Townsend, charged with keeping peace between settlers and tribes, and Dakota Sam, a rambunctious Civil War veteran attached to his military blues and backwoodsman ways.

This is the second book in an epic series, following the success of Weatherford’s first novel, “Blessings from the Four Winds.”

In this sequel, new characters are introduced: Liao Ming Chow, a Chinese immigrant, Sargent Thomas of the Buffalo Soldiers, and Mr. Todd Morgan the railroad tycoon. Niabi and Will raise two children and enjoy the protective company of their horses: Rodeo and FireTip. Their journey is marked by resilience, the spirit of community, and the ongoing struggle for safety and belonging.

Learn more about Syvila Weatherford on her website: www.syvilaweatherford.com

The Review

This was an engaging and unique blend of historical fiction, romance, and western drama. The realism and detail the author pours into this narrative were astounding, as the language used and the historical context of these merging stories felt lifted right out of the history books without sacrificing character development or engaging dialogue. Although I had not been introduced to this series or its first book, the author wrote in a way that allowed readers to enter this story fresh, without bogging them down in story elements that would leave them lost. Instead, the narrative was both detailed and fast-paced, keeping the tension finely tuned within the context of this story.

The authenticity and personal history that the author infused from her own family into the backstory and development of these characters was remarkable. The exploration of how the black community lived in post-Civil War America, let alone in a lawless land such as the American West, and their contributions to organizations like the Buffalo Soldiers and others, was fascinating to delve into. The themes of interracial marriages and romances in such a dynamic point in American history were engaging, and the rich world-building the author provided to make this feel cinematic and atmospheric on the page was incredible.

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The Verdict

Entertaining, thought-provoking, and thrilling, author Syvila Weatherford’s “Smoke on the Wind” is a must-read western historical fiction novel and a grand second entry in the Land Run series. The twists and turns in the narrative, the intensity of the relationships and community found in this book, and the personal and societal dangers faced by these characters at this time will stay with readers long after the book ends. If you haven’t already, preorder your copy today or pick it up on October 1st, 2025!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Syvila Weatherford embarks upon a third career as a novel writer. Prior to this, she worked for over twenty years as an Electrical Engineer/Computer Scientist followed by twelve more years as a Patent Attorney. She was born and continues to live in California, but has lived on the east coast and has traveled abroad for business and pleasure including London, Egypt and South Africa. She hails from humble beginnings but owes her progress to pearls of wisdom learned from her mother, nurturing family and friends, and a strong spiritual foundation.

For more information about her or the book please visit www.syvilaweatherford.com and register at the contact page for any notices about book signings and similar events, as well as to ask questions about this and future books by her.

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/smoke-on-the-wind-syvila-weatherford/1147799152?ean=9798218645328

https://amzn.to/4nUUayi

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Lancer: Hero of the West: The Los Angeles Affair by Bob Brill Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

The infamous hero of the west returns to deliver justice to those in need in author Bob Brill’s “Lancer: Hero of the West: The Los Angeles Affair”.

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The Synopsis

The Los Angeles Affair is the second in the Lancer; Hero of the West series of western novels by Bob Brill. Lancer is a mysterious good-guy gunslinger who hires out to those in need of his services. He solves crimes first by using his wits, the his fists and then and only then, his gun. An excellent marksman, Lancer doesn’t lose when the gun is used. Based in Tombstone in the 1880’s, Lancer came from the East, a former Union officer. He comes from money so while his fees are high they are not important to him. Justice is. A respecter of women and children and a man “of the law” he is not a lawman.

Lancer is a compilation of the western television heroes of the 1950’s and 1960’s. Combined with award winning writer Bob Brill’s own ideas of what a man of justice of the 1880’s should be, Lancer is a man everyone would like to call friend. Women would like to call him more than a friend and they often do.

Lancer, a world traveler, likes the finer things in life but he’s not afraid to get down and dirty. Well bred and well read, he often quotes Shakespeare or the great poets and philosophers.

A man of the people, Lancer is someone you’d love to meet and you are certainly glad he’s on your side. He has a sweet tooth as well, always carrying in his saddle bags a small box of Turkish Delight.

His great horse Lincoln is a mighty steed and named after the Great American President, Lincoln is as trusted as it gets. A song about Lancer; Hero of the West, written by Oscar and Grammy winners (Al Kasha and Ron Dante) and performed by Dante, can be found on YouTube.

The Review

This is a fantastic sequel to a creative and engaging Western series. The author did a marvelous job blending international intrigue and mystery into the classic Western setting. The exploration of Los Angeles as a setting during this era before it became the metropolis that the city is known for today was thought-provoking, as it allowed readers to see what this land was like while being occupied by various representatives of different nations. 

The action and the wealth of character development made this story shine. The dynamics between Lancer and this cast of characters are stellar, with the intrigue of new romances, government mystery, and villainy with a powerful family running about. The hero is an icon, standing up for what’s right even in the face of a world that tells him he’s wrong and proving that even gunslingers and heroes of the West have what it takes to make a difference through masterful imagery in the author’s writing style.

The Verdict

Remarkable, entertaining, and thoughtful, author Bob Brill’s “Lancer: Hero of the West: The Los Angeles Affair “ is a must-read western. The shocking twists and turns in the narrative, from a political wedding gone wrong to a tragic death leading to a hunt for a mystery “Russian,” made this a compelling story that readers will be eager to get back into with a third book. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

A native of Pittsburgh, PA and a hardcore Pirates and Steelers fan, Bob began in radio career in 1972 and worked all over the western US, several times in the L-A market. He’s currently a news anchor at CBS Radio LA; KNX 1070 News Radio.

Bob has won multiple broadcast awards including an Edward R. Murrow Award (among others) for anchoring KNX’s storm coverage in 2011.

A baseball historian, Bob writes the very popular weekly column found at http://www.baseballinthe1960s.com. He also is a podcaster who has teamed with former NFL Quarterback Erik Kramer for a weekly Fantasy Football Podcast called Kramer and Brill, which can be found where ever you get your podcasts or at their website www.kramerandbrill.com. Both are always posted on Facebook as well as Twitter.

Bob made his mark with the UPI Radio Network when a gunman went crazy in a San Diego fast food restaurant and Bob covered the story. It was his first big break. He later became a UPI National Correspondent and Bureau Chief. He has interviewed presidents, covered Super Bowl games and Hollywood as well as major news stories.

He lives in L-A. He has survived earthquakes and a beating during the 1992 L-A riots while covering the story, which was recorded on audio tape.

Bob is considered to have an excellent voice and has not only done many voice overs and radio spots, he’s starred in television commercials. Bob authored “Fan Letters to a Stripper: A Patti Waggin Tale” from Schiffer Publishing and “NO BARRIER: How the Internet Destroyed the World Economy.” His third book “Al Kabul; Home Grown Terrorist” is sure to be a controversial novel as well as a great read. “Lancer; Hero of the West – The Prescott Affair” is the first in a series of western novels set in the 1880’s, centering on the central figure; Lancer. Lancer is a gun for hire, good guy, who works the West out of Tombstone.

http://www.lancerheroofthewest.blogspot.com/

Lancer, Hero of the West: The Virginia City Affair by Bob Brill Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A call to help an old friend leads to a confrontation with a killer and shocking secrets in author Bob Brill’s “Lancer, Hero of the West: The Virginia City Affair”.

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Th Synopsis

“The Virginia City Affair” is the seventh book in the “Lancer; Hero of the West” series and is the most aggressive to date. Our hero heads to the silver fields of Nevada to help an old friend, only to learn he’s up against a killer on a mission.

As justified in his mind as the killer’s mission may be, Lancer still finds himself caught between right, wrong and indifferent. When an old calls upon Lancer to save his family from a killer bent on revenge, Lancer answers the call as always. This time however, he learns he can’t always trust his friends. Lancer also learns someone else from his past is waiting for him; a woman from very long ago.

Plot twists, good detective work, old connections and a little pure luck mixed with revenge in the silver fields of Nevada. Another Lancer adventure to keep you glued to your seat.

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The Review

The author did an incredible job crafting a new narrative for protagonist Lancer that felt personal and action-packed. The reader will immediately be drawn in when the protagonist begins interacting with Wyatt Earp in the aftermath of the O.K. Corral gunfight. Trading Tombstone for Virginia City, the wildness the West had to offer in this era, and the imagery in the author’s writing style allowed these infamous sites to come to life on the page.

The unique character development in this book was incredible. From the strong yet vulnerable protagonist with a penchant for justice to the sudden loss of an old flame and the corrupt system for which he must fight, the reader is engaged with the hero’s journey. The personal nature of the story and the shocking revelations that this plot held allowed the reader to feel a sense of mystery that will stick with readers long after the book ends.

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The Verdict

Memorable, haunting in its delivery, and entertaining, author Bob Brill’s “Lancer, Hero of the West: The Virginia City Affair” is a must-read historical fiction meets Western novel. The twists and turns the author delivers in this narrative and the rich character dynamics will keep readers invested in the story’s driving force, protagonist Lancer. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

A native of Pittsburgh, PA and a hardcore Pirates and Steelers fan, Bob began in radio career in 1972 and worked all over the western US, several times in the L-A market. He’s currently a news anchor at CBS Radio LA; KNX 1070 News Radio.

Bob has won multiple broadcast awards including an Edward R. Murrow Award (among others) for anchoring KNX’s storm coverage in 2011.

A baseball historian, Bob writes the very popular weekly column found at http://www.baseballinthe1960s.com. He also is a podcaster who has teamed with former NFL Quarterback Erik Kramer for a weekly Fantasy Football Podcast called Kramer and Brill, which can be found where ever you get your podcasts or at their website http://www.kramerandbrill.com. Both are always posted on Facebook as well as Twitter.

Bob made his mark with the UPI Radio Network when a gunman went crazy in a San Diego fast food restaurant and Bob covered the story. It was his first big break. He later became a UPI National Correspondent and Bureau Chief. He has interviewed presidents, covered Super Bowl games and Hollywood as well as major news stories.

He lives in L-A. He has survived earthquakes and a beating during the 1992 L-A riots while covering the story, which was recorded on audio tape.

Bob is considered to have an excellent voice and has not only done many voice overs and radio spots, he’s starred in television commercials. Bob authored “Fan Letters to a Stripper: A Patti Waggin Tale” from Schiffer Publishing and “NO BARRIER: How the Internet Destroyed the World Economy.” His third book “Al Kabul; Home Grown Terrorist” is sure to be a controversial novel as well as a great read. “Lancer; Hero of the West – The Prescott Affair” is the first in a series of western novels set in the 1880’s, centering on the central figure; Lancer. Lancer is a gun for hire, good guy, who works the West out of Tombstone.

https://www.bobbrill.com/index.html

Lancer: Hero of the West: The Santa Fe Affair by Bob Brill Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a air and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

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A lone man must help save a child from a criminal grandfather and a town in the clutches of a racist regime in author BobBrill’s “Lancer: Hero of the West: The Santa Fe Affair”. 

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The Synopsis

In the third episode of the “Lancer; Hero of the West” series, “The Santa Fe Affair” our hero battles social injustice head on. Lancer finds himself doing battle with two men who control a town with a racist iron fist. As he attempts to rescue a small Chinese boy he’s also confronted by a War Lord who is the child’s grandfather come from China to take his grandson home over the objections of his paternal grandmother.

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The Review

This was a compelling and gripping Western. The atmosphere and imagery in the author’s writing style made this a phenomenal read, with the gritty nature of the genre and the action taking readers into the era ideally. The fast pace of the narrative still allowed enough tension to build between the protagonist and the foes he faced in his latest mission.

The author was able to bring some depth and heart into this narrative. The character development was perfect, allowing the reader to feel the nature of the Wild West and the trail that the lone hero must traverse in these books. Yet it was the exploration of different cultures and the examination of racism in our world that really separated this story from other Westerns, allowing us to see the need for change in our own society.

The Verdict

Captivating, entertaining, and mesmerizing, author Bob Brill’s “Lancer: Hero of the West: The Santa Fe Affair” is a must-read Western novel. The twists and turns in the narrative, and the compelling narrative that sees this lone gunman having to rescue this boy and face overwhelming odds against corruption made this a memorable read. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

A native of Pittsburgh, PA and a hardcore Pirates and Steelers fan, Bob began in radio career in 1972 and worked all over the western US, several times in the L-A market. He’s currently a news anchor at CBS Radio LA; KNX 1070 News Radio.

Bob has won multiple broadcast awards including an Edward R. Murrow Award (among others) for anchoring KNX’s storm coverage in 2011.

A baseball historian, Bob writes the very popular weekly column found at http://www.baseballinthe1960s.com. He also is a podcaster who has teamed with former NFL Quarterback Erik Kramer for a weekly Fantasy Football Podcast called Kramer and Brill, which can be found where ever you get your podcasts or at their website http://www.kramerandbrill.com. Both are always posted on Facebook as well as Twitter.

Bob made his mark with the UPI Radio Network when a gunman went crazy in a San Diego fast food restaurant and Bob covered the story. It was his first big break. He later became a UPI National Correspondent and Bureau Chief. He has interviewed presidents, covered Super Bowl games and Hollywood as well as major news stories.

He lives in L-A. He has survived earthquakes and a beating during the 1992 L-A riots while covering the story, which was recorded on audio tape.

Bob is considered to have an excellent voice and has not only done many voice overs and radio spots, he’s starred in television commercials. Bob authored “Fan Letters to a Stripper: A Patti Waggin Tale” from Schiffer Publishing and “NO BARRIER: How the Internet Destroyed the World Economy.” His third book “Al Kabul; Home Grown Terrorist” is sure to be a controversial novel as well as a great read. “Lancer; Hero of the West – The Prescott Affair” is the first in a series of western novels set in the 1880’s, centering on the central figure; Lancer. Lancer is a gun for hire, good guy, who works the West out of Tombstone.

https://www.bobbrill.com/index.html

The Brand of Brotherhood by T.D. Zummack Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Two brothers find themselves on opposite sides of the law, and heading for the ultimate showdown in author T.D. Zummack’s “The Brand of Brotherhood”.

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The Synopsis

Two brothers on opposite sides of the law . . .

Life is hard in 1869 Nebraska for the Warner family and brothers Colt and Brick. After the tragic loss of their mother, their father decides to take his sons west to California–but he dies along the way, leaving Colt and Brick, aged just twelve and ten, to finish the trip and fend for themselves in the Wild West.

With the help of a former gunfighter, Jim Borden, the pair forge their way together–until Brick decides to become an outlaw.

After years on opposite sides of the law, the two find themselves locked in a showdown where they must decide what matters more: following their own paths or their shared bond of brotherhood.

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The Review

This was a gripping and engaging Western. The author did an incredible job crafting a visceral and grizzled narrative, matching the Wild West’s tone and setting. The action and suspense that builds as these two brothers go down very different paths and the lives they lead separately help elevate the tension that builds not only between them but those in their lives as well.

To me, the heart of this story rests in the character development of these two brothers. The emotional toll that the loss of both their parents has on the brothers and the lessons they learned early on that created the divide between them made for compelling narrative decisions that helped elevate the overall arc for these characters. The test of loyalty and family is significantly explored here in this story and shows the depth of the characters and the high stakes that became a part of everyday life in those near-lawless days.

The Verdict

Memorable, entertaining, and captivating, author T.D. Zummack’s “The Brand of Brotherhood” is a must-read Western and a compelling drama following two brothers going down very different paths. The twists and turns in the brother’s stories and the roller coaster of emotions that help balance out the action and adventure elements of the story made this a truly marvelous story to behold. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Author of the captivating thriller ‘Amazing Grace’ and the exciting western adventure ‘The Brand of Brotherhood’

Member of the Saskatchewan Writer’s Guild

Avid reader of Westerns and Mysteries

True Crime buff

Writer of short stories that can be found at vocal.media/authors/t-d-zummack

Melinda West: Monster Gunslinger by K.C. Grifant Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A monster-hunting gunslinger must traverse the Old West and stop an army of soul-devouring monsters arrive on Earth in author K.C. Grifant’s “Melinda West: Monster Gunslinger”.

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The Synopsis

In an Old West overrun by monsters, a stoic gunslinger must embark on a dangerous quest to save her friends and stop a supernatural war.

Sharpshooter Melinda West, 29, has encountered more than her share of supernatural creatures after a monster infection killed her mother. Now, Melinda and her charismatic partner, Lance, offer their exterminating services to desperate towns, fighting everything from giant flying scorpions to psychic bugs. But when they accidentally release a demon, they must track a dangerous outlaw across treacherous lands and battle a menagerie of creatures—all before an army of soul-devouring monsters descend on Earth.

The Witcher meets Bonnie and Clyde in a re-imagined Old West full of diverse characters, desolate landscapes, and fast-paced adventure.

The Review

I love this book. The author does an incredible job of finding the balance needed to connect this horror and supernatural plot with the Western setting. The imagery the author utilizes in their writing comes into play brilliantly when setting the stage of gritty old-west drama and the visceral and haunting creatures that the protagonist comes up against. The balance of tone was great to see as well, as the author was able to bring camaraderie and lightheartedness in some sections of the narrative while also providing a depth and emotional connection that keeps the reader invested in these characters.

The driving force of this narrative was not only the action and suspense that comes with these supernatural threats but the well-developed characters that inhabit this world. The immediate heroism and complexity of Melinda, as well as her leadership alongside Lance, was great to see, and her evolution as a protagonist when coming up against these larger and larger threats was mesmerizing to behold as a fan of these genres.

The Verdict

Haunting, chilling, and entertaining, author K.C. Grifant’s “Melinda West: Monster Gunslinger” is a must-read western horror novel of 2023! The story felt like a natural blend of The Witcher, the cult classic video game Darkwatch, and a mind-bending Lovecraftian story. The twists and turns in the narrative and the powerful draw of the protagonist will have readers enthralled with this brand-new saga that introduces a hero worthy of the reader’s attention. If you haven’t yet, be sure to preorder your copy today or grab your copy on February 2nd, 2023!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

KC Grifant is a Southern Californian author who writes internationally published horror, fantasy, science fiction and weird west stories for podcasts, anthologies and magazines.

Her writings have appeared in magazines and podcasts including: Andromeda Spaceways Magazine (cover story for issue #70), Unnerving Magazine, Aurealis Magazine, Fission Magazine, Cosmic Horror Monthly, Dark Matter Magazine, Tales to Terrify, the Lovecraft eZine, Sley House Podcasts, and many others.

In addition to a Weird West horror novel, MELINDA WEST: MONSTER GUNSLINGER (Feb 2023), she has also written stories for dozens of anthologies, including: Chromophobia; Dancing in the Shadows: A Tribute to Anne Rice; Musings of the Muse; Field Notes from a Nightmare; The One That Got Away; Six Guns Straight From Hell; Trembling with Fear: Year One; Shadowy Natures; Beyond the Infinite: Tales from the Outer Reaches; and the Stoker-nominated Fright Mare: Women Write Horror.

In addition, she is a member of the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers Association (SFWA), as well as the co-founder of the Horror Writers Association (HWA) San Diego chapter, an organization that helps to connect writers and fans of horror literature.

KC Grifant | Author of Horror, Science Fiction, Fantasy & Weird West Stories
https://twitter.com/kcgrifant

Vendetta (The Mimosa Tales Book Four) by Linda Thackeray Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A local lawman hoping to put his past behind him finds that past coming back with a vicious campaign of terror in author Linda Thackeray’s “Vendetta”, the fourth book in the Mimosa Tales series.

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The Synopsis

Decades ago, Marshal Kris Jensen brought a man to justice.

Now his past is threatening everyone he holds dear…

Determined to put the tragedies of his life behind him, Kris Jensen tentatively courts community leader Holly Davis in the hopes of settling down. For Kris, Holly is the promise of a settled, peaceful life – something he now very much wants.

But when a hail of bullets unleashed in the night begins a campaign of terror that threatens Kris’s hopes for the future and the lives of everyone around him. As his friends reel from a reputation-damning scandal to a near-fatal shooting and vicious assault, Kris desperately tries to find his secret enemy before everything he loves is taken away.

Can Kris protect his loved ones and lay the tortured ghosts of his past to rest?

The Review

This was definitely the author’s most personal journey yet for the cast of characters. The rich environment and setting the author builds up in this novel and the imagery the writing deploys really bring the town of Mimosa and the surrounding area to life in a wonderful way. The captivating mystery surrounding Kris as a character and what his past truly was has been something hinted at throughout the series, but this book pays off all of the reader’s waiting as twists and turns of his story finally start to reveal themselves.

It was the characters that really drove this narrative home. The genius way in which the author not only delved into Kris’s past but his present, from the loss of his family and the enemies he made during one mission, to the love he found in this new home he helped build made the story shine so brightly. Alex was a welcome addition to the team, as the themes of feminism and social identities were explored with her arrival into town, and she added strength made for some great new character developments for others in the cast.

The Verdict

Gripping, awe-inspiring, and engaging on a very personal level for the characters, author Linda Thackeray’s “Vendetta” is a must-read book and the perfect addition to the Mimosa Tales saga. The twists in this novel will have readers hooked, and the pacing was fast-paced enough to keep readers invested until the final page plays out. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Born in a village in Malaysia and delivered by underpaid midwife, and Ann, an irritable new mother (who wouldn’t be after 48 hours in labour?), X was named by a deranged grandmother with too much creativity for her own good. Once out of her pain-induced stupor, Ann decided to give her new daughter a proper middle name to avoid the risk of being put into a home later in life.

And so, she was called Linda.

Linda was an unremarkable child, save a few notable incidents, the discovery that a pot lid is not a substitute for Wonder Woman’s tiara (five stitches), four-year old don’t need to shave (no stitches but lots of toilet paper) and utility truck drivers are not necessarily qualified operators of their vehicles (seventy stitches).

At eight, Linda received religious enlightenment when she saw Star Wars at the Odeon Theatre and hence began her writing career.

For many years, the cages of various pets in the Thackeray household were littered with pages from Linda’s scribblings. Subjects usually ranged from whatever science fiction show was on television or at the movies. There was lots of Star Wars.

At 17, Linda moved to Sydney, Australia and was disappointed it was not occupied by Paul Hogan types with big knives and croc skin jackets but pot-bellied blokes with zinc cream and terry towel hats. Linda’s father (also known as that bloke who buys me stuff to piss mum off when she’s mad at him) settled in the town of Young, a community of 6000 people with no movie theatre.

Linda survived this period in the wilderness by raising kangaroos and writing original works but eventually got saddled down with the necessities of life and though she continued to write, work came first. Work, HBO, comic books and rent. It’s a kaleidoscope.

Even the kangaroos left out of boredom.

In 2014, Linda decided to start writing seriously again. Mostly because Australia’s strict gun laws make it very difficult to ‘go postal’ in the workplace. Moving to Woy Woy, which is Aboriginal for ‘Big Water’, she’s dipped her toes into the Indie pool and found she needs a pedicure. Her books are labours of love and championed by her friends on Facebook.

Eventually Creativia Publishers, appalled by Linda’s inability to conduct any marketing, offered to publish her books out of sheer exasperation.

Supported by two cats named Newt and Humphrey, she spends her days trying to write novels while having unclean thoughts about Michael Fassbender and Jason Statham, sometimes together.

https://lindathackeray.wixsite.com/authorsite?fbclid=IwAR0nXB5-qWWI2JRHUM7FxleTQGctra5DXOxDIN7qKCc7szzlSteutgTCKbY

https://twitter.com/Scribe31oz

Owl Canyon (The Mimosa Tales Book Three) by Linda Thackeray Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A ragtag group of heroes finds themselves facing a terror that no one could have seen coming as something awakens deep inside of a series of caverns, with an insatiable hunger, in author Linda Thackeray’s “Owl Canyon”, the third book in The Mimosa Tales.

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The Synopsis

A lone survivor with a monstrous story to tell.

An enemy too monstrous to imagine.

Kris Jensen is sure he has seen it all as a lawman and now as the Marshal of Mimosa. Outlaws, shootouts, stagecoach robberies, and a renegade army, none of it surprises him anymore. Until word reaches him about a convoy of missing homesteaders lost in the Organ Mountains.

Kris and his men are led to Owl Canyon, a place even the fearless Apache avoid. They find six-year-old Heather with a story capable of sending chills through them all. Something is lurking within the catacombs deep beneath the canyon, and it’s hungry.

Joining them to remind him of his grifter past is Adrian’s old friend Calvin Chance who may have an answer to the mystery.

The newest chapter of The Mimosa Tales takes Kris and his friends on their scariest adventure so far. Will they survive, or will they be devoured by the evil secret hidden within Owl Canyon?

The Review

This was a truly captivating and chilling entry into the Mimosa Tales saga. The author did a great job of maintaining the gritty nature of the old west genre while also delving deeper into more horror elements in this narrative. As a fan of mythology and horror, I know that the old west was and still is filled with untold legends and myths that both the Native Americans who once populated the area and settlers alike discovered centuries ago and the author really did an incredible job of capturing the essence of that atmosphere and tone.

I loved the author’s ability to craft memorable characters and highlight the culture and reality of life in the west in this era while also providing an entertaining narrative. The exploration of Kris and Flynn’s friendship in the wake of book 2’s events was engaging to read, and the exploration of cultural identity and how the consequences of a people’s actions could impact another group of people so painfully was richly explored in this narrative.

The Verdict

Haunting, captivating, and entertaining, author Linda Thackeray’s “Owl Canyon” is a must-read western and slightly horror novel in the Mimosa Tales series. The shocking twists and turns the narrative takes and the harsh realities of the Old West made this a truly memorable reading experience. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Born in a village in Malaysia and delivered by underpaid midwife, and Ann, an irritable new mother (who wouldn’t be after 48 hours in labour?), X was named by a deranged grandmother with too much creativity for her own good. Once out of her pain-induced stupor, Ann decided to give her new daughter a proper middle name to avoid the risk of being put into a home later in life.

And so, she was called Linda.

Linda was an unremarkable child, save a few notable incidents, the discovery that a pot lid is not a substitute for Wonder Woman’s tiara (five stitches), four-year old don’t need to shave (no stitches but lots of toilet paper) and utility truck drivers are not necessarily qualified operators of their vehicles (seventy stitches).

At eight, Linda received religious enlightenment when she saw Star Wars at the Odeon Theatre and hence began her writing career.

For many years, the cages of various pets in the Thackeray household were littered with pages from Linda’s scribblings. Subjects usually ranged from whatever science fiction show was on television or at the movies. There was lots of Star Wars.

At 17, Linda moved to Sydney, Australia and was disappointed it was not occupied by Paul Hogan types with big knives and croc skin jackets but pot-bellied blokes with zinc cream and terry towel hats. Linda’s father (also known as that bloke who buys me stuff to piss mum off when she’s mad at him) settled in the town of Young, a community of 6000 people with no movie theatre.

Linda survived this period in the wilderness by raising kangaroos and writing original works but eventually got saddled down with the necessities of life and though she continued to write, work came first. Work, HBO, comic books and rent. It’s a kaleidoscope.

Even the kangaroos left out of boredom.

In 2014, Linda decided to start writing seriously again. Mostly because Australia’s strict gun laws make it very difficult to ‘go postal’ in the workplace. Moving to Woy Woy, which is Aboriginal for ‘Big Water’, she’s dipped her toes into the Indie pool and found she needs a pedicure. Her books are labours of love and championed by her friends on Facebook.

Eventually Creativia Publishers, appalled by Linda’s inability to conduct any marketing, offered to publish her books out of sheer exasperation.

Supported by two cats named Newt and Humphrey, she spends her days trying to write novels while having unclean thoughts about Michael Fassbender and Jason Statham, sometimes together.

https://lindathackeray.wixsite.com/authorsite?fbclid=IwAR0nXB5-qWWI2JRHUM7FxleTQGctra5DXOxDIN7qKCc7szzlSteutgTCKbY

https://twitter.com/Scribe31oz

The Execution (The Mimosa Tales Book Two) by Linda Thackeray Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A ruthless baron seeking vengeance for his nephew’s execution goes after an innocent woman, and the law bringers who brought his nephew to justice must fight to protect her in author Linda Thackeray’s “The Execution”, the second book in The Mimosa Tales series!

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The Synopsis

An innocent woman fearing for her life

A marshal trying to prevent her murder.

No one is safe when cattle baron William Cahill, enraged at the execution of his nephew Carlton, vows to take revenge on those responsible, especially Judge Evan Davis who delivered Carlton’s sentence. Judge Davis is going to suffer, and so is his widowed daughter-in-law, Holly.

Already foiled by Marshal Kris Jensen once before, this time Cahill finds sets into motion a wicked plan for vengeance..

Cahill wants his pound of flesh, and he wants anyone who stands in his way dead.

Can Kris and his men save Holly from her fate?

The Review

This was a brilliant follow-up to the author’s first book in the series. The author’s ability to capture the raw tension and gritty nature of the old west is without equal as this book shows. The author does a great job of following up on the world she crafted in her first book, taking readers into the town of Mimosa as it now begins to adjust to having some law and order thanks to Kris and his band of heroes. The harrowing journey the narrative takes the cast of characters on is so much more personal this time around, bringing new threats both on the outside and from within into the group.

The character growth highlighted this personal danger in the novel. The threat to Holly helped elevate the personal growth of Kris and Holly as characters, showing their chemistry and strength both on their own and together. The personal journey of Flynn was also deeply emotional, as he found love in his life and discovered a threat that threatened to undo him. The tension that built as a result of this threat amongst the group really did a great job of adding tension to the overall narrative.

The Verdict

Heartfelt, shocking, and heart-pounding, author Linda Thackeray’s “The Execution” is a brilliant action western and the perfect addition to The Mimosa Tales series. The brilliant storytelling and fast pace of action kept readers on the edge of their seats, and the personalization of the threat and the motivations of the villains of this tale made readers more emotionally connected to this novel and the characters. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Born in a village in Malaysia and delivered by underpaid midwife, and Ann, an irritable new mother (who wouldn’t be after 48 hours in labour?), X was named by a deranged grandmother with too much creativity for her own good. Once out of her pain-induced stupor, Ann decided to give her new daughter a proper middle name to avoid the risk of being put into a home later in life.

And so, she was called Linda.

Linda was an unremarkable child, save a few notable incidents, the discovery that a pot lid is not a substitute for Wonder Woman’s tiara (five stitches), four-year old don’t need to shave (no stitches but lots of toilet paper) and utility truck drivers are not necessarily qualified operators of their vehicles (seventy stitches).

At eight, Linda received religious enlightenment when she saw Star Wars at the Odeon Theatre and hence began her writing career.

For many years, the cages of various pets in the Thackeray household were littered with pages from Linda’s scribblings. Subjects usually ranged from whatever science fiction show was on television or at the movies. There was lots of Star Wars.

At 17, Linda moved to Sydney, Australia and was disappointed it was not occupied by Paul Hogan types with big knives and croc skin jackets but pot-bellied blokes with zinc cream and terry towel hats. Linda’s father (also known as that bloke who buys me stuff to piss mum off when she’s mad at him) settled in the town of Young, a community of 6000 people with no movie theatre.

Linda survived this period in the wilderness by raising kangaroos and writing original works but eventually got saddled down with the necessities of life and though she continued to write, work came first. Work, HBO, comic books and rent. It’s a kaleidoscope.

Even the kangaroos left out of boredom.

In 2014, Linda decided to start writing seriously again. Mostly because Australia’s strict gun laws make it very difficult to ‘go postal’ in the workplace. Moving to Woy Woy, which is Aboriginal for ‘Big Water’, she’s dipped her toes into the Indie pool and found she needs a pedicure. Her books are labours of love and championed by her friends on Facebook.

Eventually Creativia Publishers, appalled by Linda’s inability to conduct any marketing, offered to publish her books out of sheer exasperation.

Supported by two cats named Newt and Humphrey, she spends her days trying to write novels while having unclean thoughts about Michael Fassbender and Jason Statham, sometimes together.

https://lindathackeray.wixsite.com/authorsite?fbclid=IwAR0nXB5-qWWI2JRHUM7FxleTQGctra5DXOxDIN7qKCc7szzlSteutgTCKbY

https://twitter.com/Scribe31oz