When Asked What I Read; And, A Peek At Upcoming Novels

I absolutely love reading, almost as much as I thrive on writing! For an author like me, reading and writing are beautifully intertwined.

My reading list is a vibrant mix of genres, and it's a rare moment when I'm only diving into one book at a time. Currently, I'm eagerly exploring:

• Taking Eve; Hunting Eve; Silencing Eve - A 3 book Paranormal Thriller series in Hardcover (yes, I still love to hold a book while I am reading).

• The President's Daughter co-written by James Patterson and Bill Clinton in paperback - a big shout-out to my Sister Marsha and Brother-in-law Dennis for the 70th birthday gift.

• Tracie Tanner Thrillers Volumes 1 - 7 - Espionage Thrillers set in the 1980s involving a female CIA agent and Russian spies which I am reading on my Kindle.

• Coach Mike Tomlin's biography: Tomlin:The Soul OF A Football Coach, also in Hardcover - a gift from my wife Michelle.

• As you can see, personal reading cover many genres and in multiple formats. Which is one of the reasons you will find my books in multiple formats. Not everyone reads in only one format. I am also proofreading my third installment of the 'killer on the loose' series by listening to it. Another format offered by me for my books.

  
  

Reading has always been an exhilarating escape for me, whisking me away to incredible alternate realities! I dive headfirst into every fiction book, effortlessly suspending disbelief and losing myself in the pages. As a kid, I was a regular at my local library, checking out stacks of books at a time. Westerns were my absolute favorite, though I haven't published in that genre yet. I devoured every Lois L'Amour book and anything else labeled 813.0874, for those Dewey Decimal aficionados out there. Now, here's the exciting part: I have two Western novels in progress! I'm aiming to publish at least one of them next year. The working titles are currently just the protagonists' names, but they're open to change. Stay in the loop by following me on Facebook and/or this website. Check out the synopses below!

Jarrod

Not long after the Civil War had concluded, a turbulent time in American history, sixteen-year-old Jarrod made the momentous decision to leave the family farm that had been his home for as long as he could remember. The oppressive atmosphere created by his cruel father, who had long held the reins of authority with a tyrannical grip, had become unbearable. Jarrod's father, a man embittered by the war and the loss of his slaves, was known for his harsh treatment and relentless demands. Seeking freedom and a chance to forge his own path, Jarrod set out on a journey that would take him far from the familiar fields of his youth.

His escape led him to the untamed lands of Indian Territory, a place rife with opportunity yet fraught with danger. The vast expanses of the territory were home to both settlers and outlaws, and it was here that Jarrod's life would take an unexpected turn. It was in this wild frontier that he encountered the legendary Wyatt Earp, a figure whose reputation as a lawman and gunfighter preceded him. Earp, known for his quick draw and unyielding sense of justice, became an unlikely companion for the young fugitive. Together, they rode through the rugged terrain, sharing stories and dreams of a life unshackled from the past.

However, their adventure soon took a darker turn when they crossed paths with Judge Isaac J. Parker, infamously dubbed the 'hanging judge' due to his strict enforcement of the law and the numerous sentences he handed down in Fort Smith. Judge Parker's courtroom was a place of solemnity and dread, where the consequences of lawlessness were met with severe punishment. It was during this tumultuous encounter that Jarrod and Wyatt found themselves in a precarious situation, as they were arrested by none other than Frank Dalton, the Deputy U.S. Marshal assigned to uphold the law in the chaotic Indian Territory. Frank Dalton, a man of imposing stature and a reputation that loomed large, was also the older brother of the notorious Dalton Gang, a group of outlaws infamous for their bank robberies and violent escapades.

The charges against Jarrod and Wyatt were serious, as they were accused of horse theft—an offense that carried significant penalties in a time when horses were essential for survival and commerce. While they awaited their fate in the grim confines of the jail, the duo plotted their escape, driven by a fierce desire for freedom and a determination to evade the clutches of the law. Their breakout was nothing short of daring, a testament to their resourcefulness and courage in the face of overwhelming odds.

Once free, Jarrod and Wyatt embarked on a new chapter of their journey, one that would introduce them to a host of other infamous characters from the annals of the Old West. Along the way, they encountered a colorful cast of individuals, each with their own stories of hardship, ambition, and survival. From outlaws and gamblers to lawmen and Native Americans, the people they met shaped their understanding of the world around them and the complexities of justice and morality in a land where the law was often as unpredictable as the weather.

As they navigated the treacherous landscape of Indian Territory, Jarrod began to realize that his quest for freedom was not just a physical escape from his father's tyranny, but also a profound journey of self-discovery. The experiences he shared with Wyatt Earp and the others they met along the way would forever alter his perspective on life, shaping him into a man capable of standing up for what he believed in, even in a world where the line between right and wrong was often blurred.

Justin McRae

Justin McRae's journey began on a cotton plantation in the picturesque hills of Northwest Alabama, a region rich with Southern history. His early years were set against the vibrant yet challenging backdrop of the pre-Civil War era, where the plantation thrived on the labor of enslaved individuals. However, the Civil War's aftermath turned his world upside down. Stripped of their wealth and status, Justin and his family faced the stark realities of a post-war society that offered little support or opportunity. Determined to forge a new path, Justin embarked on an exhilarating adventure beyond the familiar landscapes of Alabama.

With a heart full of hope and a thirst for new opportunities, he boldly ventured to South Texas. The vast open range and the thrilling promise of life as a cowboy were irresistible. Texas, with its expansive landscapes and booming cattle industry, was the perfect escape from his past. Embracing his new role, Justin quickly adapted to the rugged cowboy lifestyle, mastering cattle herding, horseback riding, and the nuances of ranch life. The camaraderie with fellow cowboys and the excitement of working with cattle became integral to his identity.

In Texas, a life-changing opportunity came Justin's way. He signed on to help drive a massive herd of cattle northward along the legendary cattle trails to the first stockyards in Kansas. This journey was not only a physical challenge but also a test of skill and resilience. As they crossed the vast, unforgiving terrain, Justin honed his shooting skills, practicing tirelessly with his revolver. His determination and natural talent quickly distinguished him as the best marksman among his peers. His sharpshooting prowess earned him respect and boosted his confidence for future endeavors.

Upon reaching Kansas, fate had an exciting twist in store for Justin. In a dramatic turn of events, he thwarted a bank robbery with his quick thinking and expert aim, earning the admiration of the townspeople. This act of bravery caught the attention of local authorities, who saw his leadership potential. Consequently, Justin was offered the prestigious role of sheriff, placing him at the forefront of law enforcement in the burgeoning town. This new chapter allowed him to use his skills as both a marksman and a community protector, solidifying his legacy as a man who rose from the ashes of his family's past to become a respected figure in the American West.

I'm thrilled you took the time to read my blog post! I'd love to hear your thoughts and comments, so don't hesitate to reach out!