FEATURED BOOK
Old Man Winter has held much of the nation in his tight icy and snowy grip. Some people use their time wisely during this often-harsh season, while others turn to nefarious ways to disrupt other people’s lives.
In our featured book – Matson’s Case No. 5 – the fifth in the Matson crime/detective series, we meet one such character – Oscar Ortiz. Matson reflects on headlines in the New York Times that gave Ortiz a platform to protest his incarceration based on denial of his religious freedom. No mention that his incarceration was due to gruesome murders, extortions, and rapes, all committed in the name of his occult rituals. Matson and his partner, Smith, need to use innovative ways to find the elusive Ortiz, make sure he never harms another person, and bring justice to his young victims.
ANOTHER 5-STAR REVIEW
The Apocryphal of Lazarus
In The Apocryphal of Lazarus, the protagonist, Lazarus, presents a compelling journey through pivotal moments in human history. His unique perspective, being both a witness and participant in these events due to his ageless nature, adds a fascinating layer to the narrative. Lazarus’ dual roles as a pastor and physician enable him to intertwine spiritual guidance with a healer’s compassion, enriching the story with depth and complexity.
The book effectively explores the emotional and psychological toll of Lazarus’ immortality, particularly the challenges of perpetually restarting his life in new places. This aspect resonated deeply with me as a reader, bringing a poignant understanding of the hardship and weariness that accompanies an endless existence. Lazarus’ character development is a standout feature, evolving from his experiences and interactions. His journey is marked by compassion and a caring presence, making him a memorable and relatable character. The book’s thematic exploration of life, rebirth, and the human condition is thought-provoking and consistently engaging. The story’s length is amply justified by its rich narrative and historical depth, offering an expansive scope that enriches the reader’s understanding of Lazarus’ journey. This detail allows for a comprehensive exploration of the character’s experiences, enhancing the overall depth and enjoyment of the book.
The Apocryphal of Lazarus is a commendable addition to the historical fiction genre. Its unique blend of historical context with a timeless character study makes it a recommendable read for those who appreciate nuanced storytelling within this genre.
GUEST AUTHOR – WILLIAM A. ALLEN
William “Bill” Allen is a fifth-generation Floridian who grew up in Kissimmee in the 1940s and 1950s. He is now retired from Virginia Tech where he served in the Department of Entomology for fifteen years, before moving into administration. He retired in 1995 as Director of Virginia Cooperative Extension and Associate Dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
Bill enjoys writing and published his first book, Mangrove Island, in 2021. While the book is fiction, Bill draws on his knowledge of the area as a native of Florida. If you like mysteries, you’ll enjoy Mangrove Island.
You can find Mangrove Island available on Amazon.
COMING SOON
Pablo’s historical fiction, POPE JOAN, takes some novel liberties in presenting the true story of the only female pope. Joan employed some uncomfortable tricks to conceal her female anatomy. She fell in love with a priest and moved in the right circles to reach the top – the papacy. How did she keep her secret?
