2025 - Page 2 of 2

Year: 2025

ECONOGAL > 2025

Bridal Shower Murder Book Review

Posted on June 18, 2025June 18, 2025 by Econogal

True to her style, Meier uses multiple storylines in her novel. On a personal level, Lucy is managing the stresses of upcoming nuptials for her daughter. However, she is also reporting on the latest news from the fictional Maine hamlet.

The local historical society steps on the toes of area Native Americans with an unintentional exclusion of their participation as early loggers and the shuttering of an entire town by the government benefitting a logging company. Primarily, Eminent Domain unfairly benefits a few at the cost of many minority families. Lucy is in the thick of the story.

Naturally, the two stories end up dovetailing. And a murderer is on the loose.

Much of the story revolves around the differences between the two families of the bride and groom. Followers of the Lucy Stone series have the benefit of familiarity with the Stones. Lucy and Bill Stone are open-minded and could be described as hard-working progressives. But finances are always tight. On the other hand, the Nettleton’s are rolling in dough, a bit stand-offish and shy away from those with different cultural backgrounds. So, the two Moms have very different ideas on how to throw a bridal shower. And a wedding.

To complicate things, Penny Nettleton’s first son, Chris, left behind when she married Nate is accused of murder and then dies from an overdose. Penny is devastated and the bridal shower is cut short.

The Ageless Brain Book Review

Posted on June 13, 2025June 13, 2025 by Econogal

The 2025 release The Ageless Brain is the fourth release by Dale E. Bredesen, MD. As in the first three works, this non-fiction tome focuses on Alzheimer’s. Those who have read the blog since 2017 know this topic is germane to the origination of Econogal.

Bredesen’s knowledge of the subject is extensive. Furthermore, he brings a positive, uplifting point of view to a subject that remains devastating for those diagnosed with the condition. However, a major point of his premise is the need for early testing and intervention. Fortunately, the interventions intertwine with healthy living.

The terms and language are technical. Yet I gained much from reading this text without specific knowledge of the jargon. Lay people can gain much from reading since the author wrote for a wide audience. Indeed, reaching the greater populace is critical to ending diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s and ALS.

Bredesen posits a healthy brain for those in their 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and beyond need not be the exception as I wrote in a Century of Life. For those of us who know (or knew) centurions with sharp minds, the premise is real and not far-fetched. Additionally, the author presents both data and actions which can reverse damage that has already occurred. His findings verified my own research, trials and observations.

Healthy living and common-sense play into protecting the brain. The author highlights things that are harmful for the brain as well as what is positive. The NFL and the pharmaceutical industry are just two of many that will not like a wide-spread adoption of the tools shared in The Ageless Brain.

Prevention plays a large part in protecting the thinking process. Some things are generalized. But Bredesen acknowledges the need for individualized plans when he states:

“Conceptually, when it comes to battling neurodegenerative diseases, our job is straightforward: Identify the needed supplies and ongoing demands for each disease (including age-related changes) and then address those needs with a personalized, precision-medicine protocol to ensure the demands are once again met by the supplies. p.26”

In other words, one size does not fit all. Medicine in general needs to adopt this attitude. The author believes each individual needs to have tests, including blood tests, from the age of 35 on. Thus, stopping the diseases long before they appear in the later stages of life.

Furthermore, there are two approaches to a healthy brain. The first involves protection from environmental toxins, unhealthy eating and lack of essential vitamins. In other words, keeping track of various inputs and how they impact outputs. This includes not only what you eat but when to eat. Bredesen suggests on page 189 that fasting should include a three-hour window before sleep. This allows for better rest, another key component for protecting the brain.

A second approach to having a healthy brain in the senior years is one of creating new paths in the brain. This is a frequent topic on Econogal. Bredesen devotes an entire chapter, The Brain’s Flex Factor, to learning new things to develop an ageless brain.

Neuroplasticity is the technical term for brain growth throughout life. Learning new things thus creating new neurons and pathways in the brain is on par with life-long learning. Bredesen takes the concept one step further. He suggests daily, monthly, and yearly challenges.

Daily challenges can be as simple as taking a new route to work, trying a new recipe, or switching from Sudoku to Logic Puzzles. The key is in changing the daily routine or pattern. Simple in thought, but possibly difficult to implement since there are 365 days in the year.

A monthly challenge could be reading all non-fiction instead of fiction or listening to the classical music station instead of country. The author states the key is to “…vary not just the activity but the type of activity from month to month. p. 207” So, a different reading material one month then followed by a month with a new outdoor activity. Thus, not just a switch of genres each month. The brain needs new experiences on a monthly basis.

Bredesen suggests the yearly challenge should be incorporated with a longer-term goal since it is so time consuming. Examples given include learning a new language. This lengthy process increases understanding which is a different part of the brain.

May 2025 Wrap-Up

Posted on May 31, 2025May 31, 2025 by Econogal

Both April and May 2025 were full of travel and events. Books were read and some were reviewed. Plenty of hours were logged in both the garden and the quilt room. The only thing lacking was regular writing.

Two new babies were born into the family twenty days apart. One of each gender, identical in length and only an ounce apart in weight. Since the cousins live but five miles apart it will be interesting to see if they are misidentified as twins. I look forward to holding them simultaneously.

I try to keep up and acknowledge the emails that come into the blog. Unfortunately, the majority want me to let them publish what they write thereby skipping the cost of a website. Others want me to write on their topic of choice. The vast majority are literary agents doing the job of promoting a client’s book.

My favorite correspondence is from writers themselves. Some write in the comments, others reference my blog on their websites and still others send private notes. This month I learned Ken Steele was recognized by the Oklahoma Department of Libraries in May 2025 with an award for The Promise of Unbroken Straw. Kudos to Ken, I am still gifting his book to various individuals in my circle. I highly recommend it.

Much time is spent in the garden at this time of year. I have a row of potatoes and a row of tomatoes in the Big Garden. Green onions are interplanted with the tomatoes and basil with the potatoes. I also have a row of leafy plants. Multiple types of lettuce and broccoli are in this row with more green onions and some rather anemic artichokes.

The final row includes hot peppers, beets, carrots and peas. My early starts of peanuts did not make it. However, I threw some peanut seeds into this fourth row as well and was quite pleased to see a couple of plants pop through this week. No doubt the inch of rain accompanied by warm, seasonal temperatures helped the garden along.

But first, I need to attend to my health. Something is not quite right with my heart. Fortunately, I have an appointment with a specialist at UC Health in Denver next week. Those of us in small rural towns scattered throughout this country travel out of town when medical issues are complex. Hopefully the diagnoses will be quick and the remedy straightforward. In the meantime, I plan to live as stress-free as possible. And I do plan to keep all of you up to date. Happy June to all.

Encouraging Entrepreneurship

Posted on May 24, 2025May 24, 2025 by Econogal

Summers bring knocks on the door, salespeople young and old. Often the neighborhood kids are looking for a job. The older ones might need the flexibility of setting their own schedules. And the younger ones can’t be employed by businesses yet.

Other youngsters can be found setting up stands in front of their houses. Fortunately, where I live, lemonade stands are still legal. Often kids have a table in conjunction with a yard sale or auction. I have even seen stands along parade routes.

And occasionally other items can be found for sale. Last year my daughter and I stopped at a table manned by three middle-school girls. They were selling friendship bracelets. These hand-made items were no doubt inspired by a very popular singer. Naturally, we bought several thereby encouraging entrepreneurship. Swifties support fellow Swifties.

This week a group of nine- to ten-year-olds came by. Since one was a recognized neighbor, I found some work for them. They learned quite a lot. First, they negotiated a price. Then they discovered working together involves a bit more than just hanging out. The boys stuck with the task. They completed their job in three hours. And the work was satisfactory.

I don’t think it was as easy as the group thought it would be. But encouraging entrepreneurship means allowing for various discoveries. Maybe they will return looking for more work. They certainly were happy with the earnings. But they were also tired from their effort.

Each generation will have individuals that succeed. Furthermore, success will be measured in many different ways. Monetary success is the easiest to spot. But often the entrepreneurial spirit is stoked from a desire to create new things. That satisfaction does not always equate to monetary gains. Artistic value for instance, is in the eye of the beholder. Inventors may not personally take their inventions to the market.

Encouraging the young whether in making money or creating new “things” is crucial to developing tomorrow’s discoveries. Ideas need capital for implementation if not development. We need to keep encouraging entrepreneurship from an early age. Support your local budding entrepreneurs this summer!

One Good Thing Book Review

Posted on May 15, 2025May 15, 2025 by Econogal

Lili and Esti meet at university and become close friends. Both are Jewish, one Italian and one Greek. As Mussolini’s Racial Laws intensify, Esti and her husband become more radical, even after the birth of their son Theo. Meanwhile, Lili tends to avoid confrontations even though she feels the tension of the changing political climate too.

Once the Germans invade Italy, matters boil and the women must flee their homes with young Theo in tow. Esti remains outspoken and begins forging papers for the underground. Then disaster strikes and the two women must separate. Esti, unable to travel, begs Lili to keep heading south with four-year-old Theo in tow.

Hunter brings depth to the personal triumphs and tragedies of war through the introduction of a myriad of secondary characters. Good and evil characters as well as those with actions that are a bit blurry. People act differently during war. Even more so when the fighting is close by.

These personalities provide the heart of the story. Heroes and villains’ actions allow the reader to experience the atrocities of fascism, genocide and war. But also, the altruism and dedication of those fighting against the horrors of inhumanity. Most importantly, Hunter warns against a repeat of the past with her story.

We Were The Lucky Ones was on my best books list of 2018. I am sure One Good Thing will make this year’s list. Writers with the talent to evoke strong emotions are rare. Georgia Hunter can bring one to tears and yet have the reader close the book with an expectation of hope, love and certainty that today’s woes can be overcome. And tomorrow offers the promise of a better world.

Furthermore, books such as One Good Thing need to be read far and wide. History does not have to repeat. People can learn from the past, even from historical fiction.

Every Time I Go on Vacation, Someone Dies Book Review

Posted on May 7, 2025May 7, 2025 by Econogal

The heroine of Every Time I Go on Vacation, Someone Dies is Eleanor Dash. A “panster” writer, quirky, neurotic, and quite likeable despite her long-windedness. She is plotting to kill off the star of her book series, Connor Smith. There is just one complication; someone is trying to kill the real Connor Smith and maybe has sights set on Eleanor too.

As a mystery writer, Eleanor barely outlines her work. But as a real-life crime solver, she needs a bit of structure. Especially after several attempts on her own life. Author Mack develops her protagonist’s character through a series of footnotes. These notes are non-ending at first, yet by the end of the novel, this reader was glancing at the bottom of the page first.

There is a plethora of secondary characters in the novel ranging from Eleanor’s younger sister Harper to Connor’s ex-wife Allison. And there is Oliver. He provides the romantic hero figure for Eleanor. Of course, the multitude of characters means plenty of suspects to sort through. As the writer of the series within the series, Eleanor encourages the reader to solve the mystery. This is quite tough with all the twists and turns regardless of the many clues given in the footnotes.

Three Days in June Book Review

Posted on April 21, 2025April 21, 2025 by Econogal

In the final day of Three Days in June, Max and Gail re-connect. More flashbacks from Gail bring forth the pain of infidelity from both sides. Anne Tyler expertly writes of the trials and pains of adultery. Guilt and remorse from the cheater’s side and forgiveness from the betrayed spouse.

The writing is deep. Three Days in June looks at the possibility of conciliation long after a marriage breaks apart. Anne Tyler does a good job explaining the complexity of a relationship in the aftermath of a broken marriage. She offers hope and an olive branch for those who have made the biggest mistake of their life. Once again, the author strikes gold with her writing.

Every Time We Say Goodbye Book Review

Posted on April 15, 2025April 15, 2025 by Econogal

Natalie Jenner’s 2024 release Every Time We Say Goodbye is outstanding on many levels. First, the story takes a compelling look at Rome in the aftermath of World War II. The city became a refuge for individuals caught up in the Hollywood blacklists of the McCarthy era.

Then the author dives deep into the human condition of the era. She focuses on the emotions of the survivors, particularly on those who lost loved ones during the war. Naturally, each character showcases the many reactions to intense loss.

Finally, Jenner’s publication date makes Every Time We Say Goodbye prescient to current events. Fascism is once again rearing its’ ugly head. How did she know how quickly the status quo would unravel? Once again, parallelism brings deeper meaning to the written words.

Jenner uses a combination of fictional characters and fictionalized actions and dialogue from real life actresses and writers to create Every Time We Say Goodbye. Her story offers hope to the disenchanted. Yet, she does not overlook the evil in the world. Instead, her characters demonstrate ways to cope with those intent on disruption if not actual destruction.

The Roman Catholic Church plays a large role in the novel, like its influence on the city of Rome itself. The Church is shown without any colored lenses yet plays a pivotal role in one of the actresses finding solace in a discriminatory world. The existence of good and evil is a key theme throughout the book.

Variation Book Review

Posted on April 6, 2025April 6, 2025 by Econogal

The novel centers around ballerina Alesandra Rousseau. One of four sisters raised by a determined and domineering mother. All had a shot at greatness, yet tragedy struck and only the youngest two still perform. And not without jealousy intervening.

For those not familiar with ballet, variation equates to a solo dance. Yarros uses the title as a metaphor for where Allie is in life. Connections with family and the ballet troupe are strong but it may be time for her to fly solo.

A forced reunion between Allie and first love Hudson Ellis is complicated by a past tragedy as well as family secrets. Hudson’s adopted niece wants to dance even though her mother has forbidden ballet lessons. Furthermore, young Jupiter thinks Allie is her birth mother. The truth is closer than either Allie or Hudson know.

The pair are thrown together to help Jupiter find her history and pursue her dance dreams. Neither know of the possible danger. Allie is still healing from the past and Hudson is unwilling to pass on a second chance with his one true love.

March 2025 Wrap-Up

Posted on March 31, 2025March 31, 2025 by Econogal

March 2025 contained a variety of weather from balmy to frigid. Moisture was on the light side, but the last few days look promising for April showers. Travel, gardening and quilting took up quite a bit of time. Books were read and reviewed. All in all, it was a productive month.

On the economic front, tariffs are eminent, and the outcome is uncertain. Naturally this translates into an unsettled market. Young stock market participants need not panic but I am sure retirees and fixed income individuals are as jittery as the stock exchanges. I have added a New Market Basket to track how the coming tariffs will impact prices. The Misery Index fell slightly to 6.9%. This is opposite of what I expect going forward.

Politics in the United States continues to be acrimonious. Our united front after 9/11 is all but gone. There is plenty of blame to go around and none of it is helpful. Personally, I only know of a few people planning to locate outside of the country. But others may be entertaining the thought of moving abroad. The parallels to the 1930s and 1940s have the elderly population shaking their heads.

March is a good time to start seeds. So, the cool-weather crops were started in early March 2025 while the tomatoes were planted toward the end of the month. Lettuce, kale, spinach and Swiss chard make up most of the plants. Six different tomato varieties were planted. The Genuine Heirloom Marriage Hybrid tomatoes took longer to emerge, and the germination rate was about half. But the seeds were from 2023. Viability decreases over time.

Additionally, repairs were made to the raised rows in the Big Garden. Early March brought tropical storm and even Cat. One winds to the Great Plains. Dust storms still exist in this part of the country in the early spring. Fortunately, by the end of the month the wheat stands turned green and helped mitigate the dirt-filled air. Hopefully, April will bring rain.

New Market Basket

Posted on March 28, 2025March 28, 2025 by Econogal

It is time to look at a new market basket. The inflation check challenge focused primarily on food with a few other items thrown in. The United States government excludes food and energy costs from their price index because these items are so volatile. But food and other everyday items are key in the minds of consumers. If food costs go up, more of the household budget flows to this essential. Other items take a back seat.

However, tariff driven price increases will impact a variety of items. Food does come into play. And so, we will keep food goods in the market basket. But other goods come to mind.

One of the problems in tracking goods is that many items manufactured in the United States use parts from overseas. Thus, the goods will be impacted by a trade war. We will look at some goods made in the United States primarily with imported parts.

Finally, we will include non-edible direct imports. For example, I use a Samsung laptop for my work. Other items would be tougher to track due to multiple variables. Think of gemstones or furniture or even light fixtures. For a market basket to work you need comparisons that are exact.


Item	Amount	January 2021 Price Regular/Sale	April 2021 Price Regular/Sale	July 2021 Price Regular/Sale	October 2021 Price Regular/Sale	January 2022 Price Regular/Sale	March 2025 Price Regular Sale
Planet Oat Extra Creamy Original Oat Milk	52 OZ.	$3.49	$3.99	$3.99/$2.99	$3.99	$3.99/$3.79	$4.99/$3.49
Small bag Signature Select Sugar	4 LBS.	$2.99	$2.99/$1.99	$2.99	$2.99/$2.49	$3.29	$5.49
Signature Select Cream Style Corn	14.75 OZ.	$0.69	$0.79	$0.79	$0.79/$0.65	$0.89	$1.99/$1.50
Fleischmanns Active Dry Yeast	4 OZ.	$6.99	$6.99	$7.19	$7.49	$7.49	$6.99
Bananas	1 LB.	$0.59	$0.55	$0.59	$0.59	$0.69	$0.65
Kraft Real Mayo	30 OZ.	$4.99/$3.79	$4.99/$3.99	$4.99/$3.79	$5.29/$3.99	$5.29/$3.99	$5.99
Meow Mix	6.3 LBS.	$7.78	$7.78	$7.78	$8.22	$8.22	$13.99
Morton Salt	26 OZ.	$1.19/$0.94	$1.19/$0.99	$1.19/$0.99	$1.29/$0.99	$1.29/$0.99	$2.99
Crest Pro Health Toothpaste	4.6 OZ.	$5.99/$4.99	$5.49/$3.99	$3.99/$3.49	$3.99/$2.99	$3.99/$1.99	$3.99
Align Probiotics	28 Count	$26.58	$26.58	$26.58	$26.58	$26.58	$32.99
Tide Botanical Rain Detergent	92 OZ.	$11.97	$11.97	$11.97	$11.97/$11.39	$11.97	$15.99 Now 84 0z.
Kerr Regular Mouth Canning Lids	12 Count	$3.18	$2.88	$2.88	$3.38	$2.28	$4.99 @ Safeway $8.99 @ Walmart
3M Ad. Allergy Furnace Filter	1 Count	$15.88	$15.88	$15.88	$16.38	$17.47	$20.50
Dunkin Donut Boston Cream	1 Count	$0.99	$1.09	$1.17	$1.09	$1.17	$1.79
Regular Unleaded Gasoline	1 Gallon	$2.36	$2.79	$2.79	$2.79	$3.05	$2.89


Product	Price Reg./Sale
1Gal Whole Milk	$3.69
1 LB. Bananas	$0.65
1 Can Cream Style Corn	$1.99/$1.50
Dozen Eggs	$6.49
1 Dunkin’ Donut	$1.79
1 Gal. Reg. Unl. Gas	$2.89
Dozen Reg. Mouth Kerr Lids	$4.99
Scott’s Step Fertilizer	$104.00
Hamilton Beach 4 slice Toaster	$48.95
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook	$624.99
G.E. 2 Cu Ft 1200 Watt Countertop Microwave @ Lowes	$239.00

The Wolf Tree Book Review

Posted on March 24, 2025March 24, 2025 by Econogal

The dank, cold, windswept island of Eilean Eader, isolated in the North Atlantic Ocean, provides the perfect location for McCluskey’s multifaceted story. Remote and only accessible by sea, the sparsely populated locale lends itself to self-reliance and self-rule.

Inhabitants are leery of outsiders and those moving into the community face the same barriers to acceptance found in all rural, isolated hamlets across the globe. Transportation is limited to bicycle and foot. So, everything is at a slower pace.

Georgina “George” Lennox is the lead character in the story. Fresh off a medical leave for injuries suffered in a case, she and fellow inspector Richard “Richie” Stewart travel through stormy seas to confirm a suicide is the correct ruling in the death of a teenager. Autopsy findings are uncertain.

Opposites in age, experience and investigative approaches, the partners’ working relationship has been strained since George rushed into a scene without backup and barely survived. The tension increases on the barren island as George combats physical pain and self-doubt. Her police instincts have disappeared. And she questions the unbelievable sights and sounds of the island. Are they real or imagined?

Identity Unknown Book Review

Posted on March 19, 2025March 19, 2025 by Econogal

The series is known for the intense autopsy scenes and Identity Unknown is no different in that aspect. But the scenes that stand out in my mind were of an abandoned amusement park and two harrowing flights where a helicopter took on Mother Nature.

Cornwell’s prose brings scenes to life. Whether protagonist Kay Scarpetta is performing an autopsy in the lab or on site, the reader is a part of the action. The same holds true when she encounters dangers during her investigation. The scenes with the caves and mines of West Virginia make you feel transported to that location.

The first murder is solved in a traditional way. But catching the second murderer involves the use of AI. And secret military autopsy rooms. A stretch of the imagination leads to the possibility that these secret rooms examine beings other than humans. But in the end it is simple greed and vengeance, not “Others”, responsible for the death of Kay’s old friend and lover.

As the plot unravels, the author suggests a plausible explanation for the increase in UAP/UFO sightings. High tech secret flying machines produced by various countries, both friend and foe. To bring a touch of reality, the infamous Chinese weather balloon gets a mention in the story.

Identity unknown has multiple meanings in the novel. Both victim and villain need identification with respect to the second murder. Plus, what kind of unidentified flying machine left a circle of flower blossoms around the body? Finally, a decades long mystery kept by Kay of the mystery lover from Italy.

This last brings out a myriad of emotions during an interview by top military authorities. The attempt at discernment on Kay’s relationship with the victim stirs a wide range of emotions with respect to Kay, Benton and Marino. Thus, the examination of their feelings becomes a main thread in the story. For this reader, the approach is preferable to the suspenseful gore of earlier novels. The lack of intense violence makes the book more palatable.

Is Stagflation on the Horizon?

Posted on March 9, 2025March 9, 2025 by Econogal

Rapidly rising prices combined with wage freezes and layoffs created hardship for most of the 1970s. As a result, Arthur Okun devised a way to measure stagflation. The Misery Index at its’ simplest equation is easy to calculate:

Misery Index= Seasonally Adjusted Rate of Employment + Annual Inflation Rate

Much like the Inflation Rate Challenge of a few years ago, I plan to track the Misery Index throughout 2025. Currently the number reads normal. Thus, the January numbers do not indicate stagflation. However, they are just at the top end of the range. The Seasonally Adjusted Rate of Employment for January 2025 was 4% and the Annual Inflation Rate in January was reported at 3%. So, the numbers bear watching. We start with the Misery Index at 7%. Again, that number reads more like a normally functioning economy, not one experiencing stagflation. But these particular rates are lagging indicators.

We may just go through another rapid period of inflation similar to that of a few years ago. This time the supply shocks most likely will stem from a combination of tariffs and agricultural woes. Drought and disease are just two factors. Most farmers will agree there is climate change. The argument stems on the cause of the changing weather. But everyone can agree the unknowns of weather patterns have a great impact on farm production.

So, I plan to revisit the Inflation Check Challenge. I will keep some of the items from before. But I am now paying $8.00 for a dozen eggs so those will be watched as well. The first check will be after the February employment and inflation numbers are out so The Misery Index can be tracked, too.

There are a lot of ifs and maybes involved in predicting which way the economy will flow. Current variables include the impact of tariffs, the severity of governmental layoffs as well as private industry slowdowns. Personally, I don’t know of anyone laid off, just of hours cut. Furthermore, how other countries react to the tariffs is unknown.

Countries enjoying unfair competitive advantage can make more concessions than those who believe historical exchanges fall into the Fair-Trade category. Politics comes into play as well as does ongoing military conflict.

Governmental cuts, whether labor or goods, will tend toward a recessionary effect. These cuts are necessary as anyone looking at the Debt Clock can see. (For those who have not checked on the clock in a while, the powers-that-be have added a DOGE component.) The Federal Deficit is near a tipping point which, if reached, will make stagflation look pleasant.

So, while I am certain we will have inflation, I think we will also experience a recession. Thus, the country will undergo stagflation once again.

We can no longer kick the can down the road. In the short-term things will be ugly. But if we do not get the deficit under control, the dollar is in danger of default. And the strength of the U.S.A. will plummet. The country came together after 9/11. Can a unified response to the fiscal mess we are in occur? I hope so, but I do have doubts.

The Quiet Librarian Book Review

Posted on March 3, 2025March 3, 2025 by Econogal

A 2025 release by Allen Eskens, The Quiet Librarian is historical fiction at its’ best. However, the history is fairly recent. The book rotates between present day Minnesota and the 1995 civil war in Yugoslovia. Specifically, the ethnic genocide of that summer. Eskens is excellent at conveying the horrors of war. Men, women and children all suffer. Neighbors and friends turn against each other along ethnic and religious lines. When a country is at war from within, there is no escape; “war has a way of finding everyone.”

Flashbacks provide the backstory of Hana Babić. The atrocities of war transformed a teenager into a warrior. The author does not mince words. People change when fighting. Self-preservation and revenge lie in each individual. Peaceful lives are shattered. Killing and death become the norm.

As a young teenager, Hana escapes death but the only meaning left in life is revenge. Thus, she is a wanted woman by present day Serbians. And her friend may have lost her life protecting Hana’s true identity.

In the opening pages, Hana is shelving books in the Civil War section of the history stacks. The nuance of the foreshadowing is just one instance of the author’s ability to weave depth into the story. Casting Hana as a quiet librarian is another. War and its threats are spread across Earth as I write this. Causes vary. Hatred and fear of religious differences are on par with greed for another country’s land and resources, so justifications also deviate. The “why” of war takes a backseat to the horror.

This is the first novel from Allen Eskens that I have read. In the author’s notes, Eskens indicates it differs from his other work. I do not know what the differentiation is. However, the writing is outstanding. The romantic spark between the two leads is juxtaposed with each individual’s internal code of ethics. The conflict threatens their chance at happiness. But lives are at stake. The twist at the end was unexpected and satisfying to this reader. I highly recommend.

February 2025 Wrap-Up

Posted on February 28, 2025February 28, 2025 by Econogal

Early in the month before the bitter cold arrived a few seeds were planted in the warmest, sunniest spot in the garden. In the past I have had luck planting before a light snow. So, the predicted cold front was not a concern.

However, a week after the gentle blanket protected the seeds, a second front stormed in. Thirty-mile an hour winds brought in a heavier snow and below freezing temperatures for a solid week. Furthermore, on two nights the temperature dropped below zero (Fahrenheit.) The worst of the weather was a solid week without sunshine. February 2025 proved to be colder than past February’s.

I doubt much will sprout from those early seeds. And since the end of the month is here and no crocuses have sprung through the ground, I will wait before planting any more seeds outside.

The quilt I am working on is the most difficult one I have ever attempted. Lots of sewing followed by small bits of “un-sewing.” The process is complex. Twenty strips sewn together followed by crosscut strips. Those strips are taken apart and sewn in alternating combinations. The colors range from off white to teals and finish in blues so dark they almost look black. There is enough completed that it is easy to see the finished project will be stunning.

Thus, writing took a bit of a back seat.

My 40^th wedding anniversary was this past week, and we celebrated by going to the only restaurant in town that features steaks. Options are limited in a town of 7500. Furthermore, as long-time readers know, we live in the biggest town in a one-hundred-mile radius. Choices are a plethora of fast-food restaurants serving the highway travelers and a smattering of Mom-and-Pop places. No Big Box chains here.

We look forward to a family celebration in the near future with all of our kids. And a little warmer weather would be nice too.

After Sundown Book Review

Posted on February 16, 2025February 16, 2025 by Econogal

Sela Gordon is the main character in After Sundown. Most of the writing is from her point of view. A divorcee, she is content to interact with customers and her family. She sees no need to chase companionship. Ben is one of her customers. Interactions have been quick and quiet, typical for two introverts.

However, both are born leaders. So, they are thrust out of their comfort zones during this emergency. Sela supports and then stands in for her aunt as a De-facto leader of Wears Valley. Gradually, Ben is drawn in to help the inhabitants of the valley as well.

Naturally, life is different without electricity. Especially after sundown. The relationship between Sela and Ben becomes deeply personal. And the scenes are explicit. If you are averse to spicy romances, you can easily skip over these parts as they do not take up a majority of the book.

Furthermore, the authors include a lot of common-sense ideas for dealing with no electricity. Yet, the novel is at heart a story of love and validation. The prepping hints do not interfere with the plot.

The Next Mrs. Parrish Book Review

Posted on February 11, 2025February 11, 2025 by Econogal

I found The Next Mrs. Parrish difficult to read. It was the theme, not the writing. Even though the sister duo writing as Liv Constantine excel with their creation of characters, I find manipulation off-putting. And two of the characters are the epitome of manipulators. Plus, there was one small plot flaw that needs addressing.

Additionally, this is the third book featuring Amber Patterson Parrish. A master of evading punishment, one wonders if there will be yet a fourth novel featuring this con artist. Characters people love to hate, tend to re-appear.

In addition to Amber, Daphne Parrish (the first Mrs. Parrish), Jackson Parrish and Daisy Ann Briscoe all have pivotal roles and their own chapters/point of views. This approach connects the readers with the individual characters. Since the characters all have human flaws, misdirection by Constantine keeps the reader guessing as to how the story will unravel.

This technique could have been extended to Mason Briscoe. The one piece of the plot that did not make sense to me was the 180° turn by Mason concerning Daisy Ann’s quest to bring her father’s killer to justice. Most of the novel he was dead set against her actions. Then in the final pages he was by her side. An explanation was needed for this reader.

The novel is characterized as a psychological thriller. With a few exceptions, action scenes and physical violence are absent. Thus, focus is on the tremendous damage that can be inflicted through manipulation and lies. Perhaps this is why reading The Next Mrs. Parrish was so difficult.

Manipulators are everywhere. Most are not as evil as Amber Patterson Parrish. Many just want to have their own way. The phrase had her cake and ate it too comes to mind. Yet, everyday manipulation creates a rippling effect across lives. So, this novel seems so much more plausible and that is scary.

January 2025 Wrap-Up

Posted on January 31, 2025January 31, 2025 by Econogal

My part of the world experienced cold and snow in January 2025. But that is normal for the High Plains. The surprising weather is the snow and cold in the south which many of my family members experienced. While snow is not unheard of in places like Houston and the beaches of northern Florida, this month’s amounts rival those seen here on the plains.

Fortunately, the end of the month and the forecast for February paint a different picture. This will alter my activities. Much of January was spent indoors either quilting, reading or researching.

I bundled up on the warmer afternoons for a walk around the neighborhood, but there was no action in the garden. So, the pruning of the grape vines is still on the list of winter garden chores. New varieties of seeds were ordered after browsing seed catalogues and this was the only garden-related accomplishment.

Currently I am piecing a king size quilt with almost 3300 pieces. The pattern is from More Twist-and-Turn Bargello Quilts reviewed here. The baby quilt made in this style was quite easy. However, the size and pattern of the current one is challenging. Once the quilt top is pieced, I will share a photo. My goal is to finish the piecing by the end of February.

Quilt fabric navy blue background with large floral motif in pastels-pink, blue, yellow and green. — Fabric for both baby quilts.

Two more quilts are planned for this spring. Both are baby quilts for cousins to be. Pattern books have been part of the reading with nothing picked out yet, except for one of the fabrics. Since the two cousins are expected just weeks apart and their respective parents live about five miles apart, I have picked one key fabric to use in both quilts. But the coordinating fabrics for each will reflect the different genders. I am a bit of a traditionalist in that sense.

The very cold weather in January 2025 yielded much reading. In addition to Slow Dance and The Grey Wolf, the latest Janet Evanovich-Stephanie Plum book was greatly enjoyed. Additionally, After Sundown, The Next Mrs. Parrish and Identity Unknown have been read. Look for the reviews throughout February.

In addition to reading novels, I spent time in January 2025 reading family history including original documents written by family members. Of particular interest was two months of a diary from 1922 detailing passage from Kobe, Japan to the East Coast of the United States. Stops included two of the Hawaiian Islands, San Francisco, the Panama Canal and Cuba. The diary stopped at the canal but photos show pictures of Cuba. A search for more of the diary will be made.

Much of what I read is material saved at the last moment when emptying out my father’s house after his unexpected death. My youngest made room for a box labeled with a great-uncle’s name. Since he had no offspring, the historical artifacts made their way to the historian in the family-my dad.

Among things saved from my youngest’s insistence that I go through all photos was a booklet of drawings made by the mother-in-law of the diary keeper. Her artwork is exquisite, and I have treasured her oil paintings since I was a child. The scrapbook spurred a thought about writing a biography. Hence the research.

Much was accomplished in January even though I watched more television than usual. In addition to the funeral service for Former President Carter I watched the inauguration. President Trump became the second president to hold office a non-consecutive term. The first was Grover Cleveland.

I think it is important to have a smooth transition of power between the opposing parties. This distinguishes the United State of America from countries with other forms of government. The balance of power between Congress, the Supreme Court, and the administration led by the President is key. My hope is that every leader in Washington, D.C. remembers this importance.

Wishing you a productive month in February.

Slow Dance Book Review

Posted on January 23, 2025January 23, 2025 by Econogal

Shiloh, Cary and Mikey were fast friends in high school. Even though everyone, including Mikey, thought Shiloh and Cary were more than friends, they weren’t. At least not in high school. Since the theme of Slow Dance is one of star-crossed lovers, there was one hook-up during the “before.”

After parting as teenagers, each went their separate ways. Shiloh fell into a failed marriage and Cary dedicated himself to the Navy. The latter a barrier to the free-spirited Shiloh from a philosophical stand.

This is the first book by Rowell that I have read. I found it compelling and entertaining. I am so thankful for my local library as it was on the “NEW” table that I seek out every time I enter. If your library does not have a copy, it is certainly worth finding online or in a bookstore.

Slow Dance is perfect for book clubs and young adults. Romance fans like me may read it in one sitting as I did. There are many authors, and Rainbow Rowell is a very talented one. Another winner from the heartland.

The Grey Wolf Book Review

Posted on January 15, 2025January 15, 2025 by Econogal

Louise Penny’s The Grey Wolf released in 2024 looks at the possibility of bioterrorism. At the same time, the many layers of the Catholic Church also play a part in the murder mystery. Long-time fans will love this book a part of the series featuring Armand Gamache. Furthermore, newcomers should not worry about missing previous stories. The Grey Wolf not only does a good job of standing alone, but it also has the reader anxiously looking for the follow-up 2025 release-The Black Wolf.

Although quite a few of the minor characters are from previous books, Penny does an excellent job of weaving enough clues and background information into the story. This allows the occasional reader of her work and even a first timer to enjoy the developing plot. For this occasional reader, not remembering one key character was actually helpful. And in The Grey Wolf, the plodding Gamache did not lose my interest as did the last book read a year or two before the pandemic.

Misdirection is still part of the author’s writing skill. Dying words kept this reader guessing as to who would be disclosed as traitors. I was wrong.

Trust is the overarching theme of the book. Penny does an excellent job of demonstrating the importance of trust on both a personal level and a community/governmental level. Multiple characters in the story experience the question of who to trust. Furthermore, the inability to trust leads to self-doubt and second guessing. Naturally, this plays into the hands of the villains.

Key scenes emphasize the dangers of distrust including the one located in Washington, D.C. The author is clearly sending a message. One that is important to heed.

The Dignity of James Earl Carter

Posted on January 9, 2025January 9, 2025 by Econogal

Carter was one of the candidates in the first election I was eligible to vote in. I lived on campus in the heartland of the country. The university centered between the two large cities in the state. A majority of the population lived in these metropolitan areas and the rest of the state was rural and sparsely populated. The campus reflected these demographics.

Then First Lady Rosalyn Carter made a final campaign stop on campus just prior to election night. My roommate and I attended. Most of our fellow resident hall companions did not. Political apathy existed even then. And Carter was unpopular in 1979.

As history correctly indicates, Carter became a one-term president. Yet, his dignity allowed a country to see failure to attain a second term did not equate to failure as a person. A lesson for all of us. The presidency did not define who Jimmy Carter was.

Just a few years after leaving the White House, Carter began volunteering with Habitat for Humanity. The organization was founded in Americus, Georgia, just ten miles down the road from the Carter’s hometown of Plains. This work was in addition to founding The Carter Center. The two non-profits shared similar values.

For forty years, Carter spent untold hours helping build thousands of houses across the United States of America. He did not rest on Presidential Laurels, he grabbed a hammer and contributed to society with both physical labor and dignity.

In 2017, one of the twenty states visited was Georgia. My destination was Plains. I specifically went out of my way to see the place Jimmy Carter called home. The side trip did add a few hours to the last day of a long road trip. But it was worth it. People were friendly, helpful and willing to give insight into the former president without violating his privacy. (He had taught Sunday School the previous week.)

Peanut farms were as prolific as the wheat farms of the Great Plains. The downtown benefits from tourists. Even those just making a quick stop. I loved the peanut butter shake as well as the bag of peanuts bought along Main Street. Best of all, I appreciated the directions for a back way to the Georgia-Florida Highway so I could skip Americus and take a more direct route to the Sunshine State.

Planning The 2025 Garden

Posted on January 6, 2025January 6, 2025 by Econogal

First, a review of the failures and successes of the 2024 plantings. This past year was much better than 2023 although not as productive as 2020. The sweet potatoes produced a nice yield for the two of us. More than enough to get us through the winter months and a few to start new slips with. The 2024 crop came from just two slips which were grown from the 2023 harvest. However, not enough to share with neighbors and families.

The tomato crop also improved from the year before. Two reasons for this. Fewer plants were placed in the big garden. I was trying to increase the space between the plants so diseases would not pass as easily between the tomatoes. Tomato wilt has been a problem. Additionally, I changed the varieties planted. Crop rotation is ongoing.

Spinach grew in pots- and nowhere else. So, in planning the 2025 Garden, I plan to plant in one of the metal rings that usually grow potatoes.

The lettuces were great, so no changes there. But the brassicas need an earlier indoor start. Finally, the cucumbers also enjoyed less competition under and on the trellises.

Keeping the future in mind is an important second step in planning the 2025 Garden. So far on the calendar are the births of two babies, two weddings, and a combined 80^th Birthday celebration for an aunt and uncle. And it is just the first week of January.

So, a garden which will survive my travelling now and again is important. Crops that take all season to mature may find spots in the garden when they were left out last year. Peanuts come to mind in addition to sweet potatoes. And winter squash. Furthermore, this is probably not a good year for experiments or adding new plantings.

I like to use diagrams when planning. The Big Garden and side garden each get a page at the minimum. The raised boxes are usually placed front and back on a single page. The herb gardens also get plotted out. Since many are perennials, the planning is not as complicated.

Using a scale is helpful for creating diagrams. Tomatoes like Cherokee Purple need more space than Romas. Vining crops such as melons can take up a third of the row. Fortunately, favorite veggies, such as onions, can pop in almost everywhere.

The last step in planning the 2025 Garden is calculating when to start the seeds. One will need to know the average last frost. Then figure the amount of time a seed will need to germinate and transform into a plant before setting outside. Using a calendar, count back the number of weeks for indoor growth from the average last freeze. Then mark that date in your calendar. Plants vary greatly from germination to reaching the size ready to grow. One final caution- certain plants need warm ground in addition to frost-free temperatures. I often add a month to the last frost date for veggies such as eggplant and melons.

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