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I Know Why Old Men Plant Trees Book Review

Posted on February 6, 2026February 6, 2026 by Econogal

We meet Wendell Jones on an executive bonding retreat for the various compliance officers of Peregrine Perch. He is out of his natural element and quite concerned about the first day task, rock climbing in California. He completes the task and immediately quits. Both the retreat and his job.

Back in Colorado, he begins walking dogs for a living. And starts a rebellion against his old boss. Key to Wendell’s transformation from compliance officer to renegade leader for common sense laws are friends, Michael Porter, Mr. Tuttle, owner of an area landscape company, Erica, and the many residents of Peregrine Perch.

Wendell becomes a hero to all as he sabotages park landscape rules and regulations.

The overarching theme in I Know Why Old Men Plant Trees is the dark side of algorithms and artificial intelligence. Common sense goes out the window when a society tries to keep everything within a narrow window of parameters. Exceptions and anomalies are part of life, but it is easier for bureaucrats to maintain conformity. Otherwise, those in charge must engage in critical thinking to ensure fairness and justice. Algorithms and AI are restricted by their inputs. At least for now, computers cannot think for themselves.

Innocence Road Book Review

Posted on January 19, 2026January 19, 2026 by Econogal

Leanne Everhart returned to Madrone, Texas following the death of her father. She now works for the Madrone Police Department just like he did. Following in his shadow is not easy.

Tough and experienced by a stint in the city, Leanne faces a complicated life back in the small town. Her brother is a recovering addict with a secret girlfriend. And then there is her mom. Since her mom remarried just weeks after her father’s death, Leanne holds a bit of a grudge.

Finally, Duncan Harper, a sheriff’s deputy has a soft spot for Leanne. But she is keeping him at arm’s length despite her feelings for him. Why, is a bit of a mystery. So, life is complicated for Leanne even without two major cases popping up to catch her off-guard.

The Black Wolf Book Review

Posted on January 9, 2026January 9, 2026 by Econogal

Climate change is central to the novel. Specifically, the author writes about wildfire, similar to the huge wildfires North America has experienced over the last few years. She deftly ties the wildfires to water quality. Furthermore, Penny takes this point one step further. “What happens when the water runs out?” Historically, wars are fought over resources and power. Penny stresses this fact throughout The Black Wolf. And as often happens fiction can be a precursor to life. Is it possible that Canada could become the 51^st state?

One of the complexities of the Gamache series is the plethora of characters. It is possible for the reader to become confused. Another difficulty relates to Inspector Gamache inability to decide who the mastermind is. And who can be trusted. This is intentional. The twists and turns engage the reader.

The characters are divided into three groups, those always in the books, those appearing from time to time and first-time appearances. New readers will have a hard time keeping everything straight in The Black Wolf. Perhaps even devoted followers.

One of the zingers in the novel relates to the current political climate. The plot of The Black Wolf hinges on strained relations between Canada and the United States of America. Penny proposes in her fiction that a plot is underfoot to merge the two countries. Both misinformation and disinformation play a part. Power figures include politicians and the mafia as well as various police forces. The current real-life idea of a fifty-first state iterated by President Trump mirrors the fiction. Penny unknowingly foreshadowed this power move. Again, it boils down to “What happens when the water runs out?”

A Matter of Pedigree Book Review

Posted on November 26, 2025November 26, 2025 by Econogal

Three generations of Capobianco’s are introduced in the novel. Frank and Carole are the sandwich generation. Big Frank and Mom are Frank’s parents (and very close to Carole). Connie, a lawyer, and Frank-O, a student artist are the younger generation. Eventually, Polly, Carole’s mother, arrives on the scene as well. All feature in A Matter of Pedigree.

Additionally, residents of the original condo as well as the apartments where Frank and Carole ended up, take part in the story. All fall under Carole and Mom’s investigative eyes. Of course, Poopsie steals the role of heroine.

Posted on November 6, 2025November 6, 2025 by Econogal

Ryan is a career military helicopter pilot. And a confirmed bachelor. He is in Shelter Springs to care for his thirteen-year-old niece Audrey, while her mom Kim is in rehab after an accident. His loyalty to Kim stems from the loss of their mother when they were both young teens.

However, he must also interact with his estranged father who lives in nearby Haven Point with his second wife Diane, who broke both an arm and leg in the accident. Ryan genuinely likes Diane but has no desire to be around his father. Most importantly, he must care for Audrey.

Holly and Ryan make a deal to help each other. Holly needs a date to a wedding she must attend since Lydia is the flower girl in her dad’s sister’s wedding. And Ryan needs help making Christmas bright for his niece and sister.

Idaho weather makes a romantic backdrop for the growing attraction between the pair. Snow kissed nights of family-oriented outings allow the attraction to grow. Naturally, both fight their feelings because a long-distance relationship is not easy.

I Cheerfully Refuse Book Review

Posted on October 6, 2025October 6, 2025 by Econogal

I Cheerfully Refuse is set in the not-too-distant future in the vicinity of the Great Lakes. There were references to events taking place in the twentieth century. Also, the book alluded to lots of pollution and great storms. Finally, the stage is set between “haves” and “have-nots.”

The “haves” are the uber-wealthy and the ones that work for them. Perhaps there is a parallel with the billionaires of the early twenty-first century. The main villain of the story is a bureaucrat named Werryck. He and Rainy cross paths multiple times.

Ranier, known as Rainy, is married to Lark. Their marriage is solid and their lives happy even though they do not live among the astronauts. Apparently, those with money live on the coasts of the country and are referred to as astronauts. But money doesn’t buy happiness.

Rainy is a musician and Lark is a bookseller. She is the optimist and her upbeat way of looking at life while pushing the edges allows Rainy to get through the dark days of life. He is one to learn from others. Furthermore, Rainy is the person who is always there for others, even at a personal cost.

Parents Weekend Book Review

Posted on September 29, 2025September 29, 2025 by Econogal

I very much enjoyed this thriller. Although this was a library check out, purchasing the book is certainly an option with respect to gift-giving. The author is not the happily ever after type. Furthermore, there is more than one male character with sexual exploitation as a character flaw. But when it comes time to reveal the culprits, Finlay packs a surprise punch. Buy a copy or check it out from your local library. The depth of cultural observation coupled with a fast-paced mystery/thriller creates a winning novel.

These Summer Storms Book Review

Posted on August 9, 2025August 9, 2025 by Econogal

Franklin Storm exerts control from the grave. Three of his children and widow receive letters. And each missive contains one final challenge. Per the will, all must succeed, or no one will inherit.

There is no fairness to the requests. Furthermore, protagonist Alice Storm wants no part of the game. Since she was banished five years ago, no letter was included for her. However, she is instructed not to leave by her father’s second in command.

Greta Storm has the hardest task from an emotional standpoint. Thus, Alice tells her not to comply. Second born Sam, the only male offspring is determined to make everyone comply. Even if it means detaining Alice on the island. Emily, the youngest, has secrets to disclose and the widow Elisabeth is compelled to tell the truth.

Jack Dean, Franklin’s second-in-command, is present to see if the rules are followed. But he has already broken one. Seemingly he is attracted to Alice. The feeling is somewhat mutual. Unsurprisingly, there are complications and greed shines through. Can the siblings work together?

I love this novel, and it is perfect for summer reading. However, the writing leaves nothing to the imagination when Alice and Jack come together so it may not be acceptable to some readers. Plus, I do not recommend for readers under 18. But for those who enjoy spicy romance novels with more substance than just a love story, this is a winner. My understanding is this is MacLean’s first contemporary novel. I plan to look for her historical releases. Furthermore, I hope she continues to spin tales filled with rich characters such as those in These Summer Storms.

Strangers In Time Book Review

Posted on July 29, 2025July 29, 2025 by Econogal

Readers of the action-adventure genre are familiar with David Baldacci, author of Strangers In Time. However, this novel is a stand alone instead of one of his many series’. Since I am not familiar with his previous non-series novels, I can’t compare. All I can say is, Wow!

Strangers In Time reminds me of a classic story such as Tale of Two Cities (Charles Dickens), The Sound and The Fury (William Faulkner) or The Sun Always Rises (Ernest Hemingway) and yes this is high praise. The kudos are well-deserved. One caveat, historical fiction is not for everyone.

Baldacci captures the reader’s interest with the actions of young Charlie Matters trying to pilfer from those with excess in order to eat. He stumbles onto a bookstore run by Ignatius Oliver and scores a great amount of cash. Unbeknownst to the scamp, he has witnessed wartime intrigue.

The final main character in the story is Molly Wakefield. She is just returning to London from a five-year exile only to find both city and home drastically changed. Molly, Charlie and Ignatius Oliver form a bond more like family than friendship.

But can the bond survive the secrets of the three?

Historical fiction is one if my favorite genres. Additionally, David Baldacci is a favorite author. In fact, Baldacci has made an Econogal Best Books List. Since we are over half way through the year, I believe Strangers In Time will easily make the 2025 index. While there is action and intrigue, the heart of the story is the relationship between the main characters and their struggle to both stay alive and sane in the midst of war.

Baldacci’s writing is not formulaic. His storytelling stands above. I highly recommend this book for both reading and gift-giving! Find a copy today.

Summer In The City Book Review

Posted on July 23, 2025July 23, 2025 by Econogal

Elle is a very successful screenwriter with a hidden identity. She is up against a deadline to produce a script centered around New York City. But her last stay there ended on a bad note. Because her instant attraction to Parker Warren was spurned by his “I can buy anything” billionaire attitude. She hopes to never run into him again.

However, Elle returns to the city hoping to break her writer’s block with free rent in exchange for overseeing a remodeling job. As luck would have it, (or perhaps bad luck) Mr. Warren lives across the hall.

With a case of opposites attracting, Elle and Parker try to ignore the tension. Furthermore, each needs the other for business reasons. So, they agree to “see” each other just for the summer.

Parker tries to ferret out her true identity and Elle fiercely protects her anonymity. All the while slowly falling for each other. Finally, they run into someone who knows, really knows Elle and her story tumbles out. Parker falls more in love than ever. And like a true romance-blows his opportunity.

I enjoyed Alex Aster’s love story and found her characters compelling. The romance is real as is the angst when things don’t work out right away. Aster keeps the reader hoping for a happy ending and then delivers. This was a library checkout, but between the title, the map highlighting NYC on the inside cover and the blurb on the cover, it could have been an easy buy if I first spotted it in a bookstore. It is a spicy love story with explicit scenes so I would label this for adult eyes only.

Where the Rivers Merge Book Review

Posted on July 6, 2025July 6, 2025 by Econogal

As Eliza shares her history with a younger generation, the reader becomes a part of the learning. The 20^th Century arrived on horseback and by 1988, the current time period of Where the Rivers Merge, rocket ships and women CEOs were present, if not the norm. A lifetime of change.

Monroe’s writing touches on technological, political, racial, and gender equality progress. Yet, she is not preachy. The story unravels naturally, allowing the reader to experience history. Eliza is the vehicle to convey past, present and perhaps the future.

Flashbacks in Where the Rivers Merge occur through the stories Eliza tells Savannah and Norah. Both women are eager to hear her story, as was this reader. The author masterfully employs this technique to bring the past to life while simultaneously creating resonating characters.

At the end of the novel, Eliza is only partway through her life story. Hence the abrupt ending. Mainstream literature has yet to develop devoted followers of lengthy novels such as those readers of fantasy or sci-fi. If Where the Rivers Merge belonged in either of those genres we would have but one book. However, Monroe is mainstream and so Book Two: The Rivers’ End cannot be published soon enough for this reader.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 Promise of Unbroken Straw

Posted on December 10, 2024December 10, 2024 by Econogal

The Promise of Unbroken Straw, a debut novel by Ken Steele blew me away much like the fictional tornado in the story. This book rivals Crow Talk for the best of 2024. Since this is the first book penned by Steele, it may get the edge to the top. The author offers depth, commentary and historical reflection. Furthermore, The Promise of Unbroken Straw reminds the readers death is final and the time to make amends is short.

The story opens in 1986 and then travels back in time a few decades. Thus, a tale of historical fiction. The setting is rural Oklahoma in an area probably not much changed to this day. Wheat fields provide income as well as hope. And small towns gather under Friday night lights. A star football player and his younger brother are raised by a father and grandfather. The tornado and accompanying hail destroyed a crop needed to keep the land from foreclosure during World War II. Only a small area of unbroken straw remains. Yet there is hope in those stalks. Just as there is biblical hope in rainbows.

Then oil comes to the rescue.

Paul, the younger brother, is the protagonist. His brother Tim is a star athlete drawing notice while just a sophomore. Their mother died while they were still young. Paul only has vague memories. Jake Landrum presents as a father without emotion. Yet he provides a home with values, including strong ties to the church.

In contrast, is Paul’s best friend Teddy. Both parents are alive. The father, an alcoholic, beats both Teddy and Teddy’s mom on a regular basis. As the story unfolds, other women were victims too. The late 1930s and early 1940s offered little recourse for such behavior. This backstory is pivotal for the growth of the protagonist.

Paul is the opposite of his brother as he is without any athleticism. After the family’s fortune changes and they move to the big city of Tulsa, Paul has his own talents recognized but the move is not an easy one.

When tragedy strikes, Paul blames himself for an accidental death just as his father blamed himself for his wife’s deadly illness. The many parallels in the story provide complexity for the readers.

Familial relationships stand out. Steele offers comparisons throughout the story. First among farm families and then in the city. Parenting is critically examined as are bonds between brothers.

Of note is how wisdom is passed down through the generations. And how families sacrifice for one another. Most importantly the author creates division in the family in allowing young Paul to reach maturity. Estrangement shows his weaknesses. However, the willingness to return to his hometown indicates the strength of his upbringing.

I highly recommend The Promise of Unbroken Straw. Ethics and reliance on faith through the church are a large part of the story. But familial love is even stronger. The importance of making amends and forgiveness is ever present without explicit statements. And forgiveness of oneself is key.

New authors reaching publication is one accomplishment. Then they face the arduous task of finding a spot amongst the already known. Ken Steele may find this even harder as his name is somewhat common with “other” successful Ken Steele’s including an author and a series character in the United States.

Yet, The Promise of Unbroken Straw is a great gift from the author. Top on my list for 2024. I wish him great success and hopefully other novels to follow. Buy a copy or find a copy at your local library. This story is tremendous and deserves acknowledgement. Kudos to the Ken Steele formerly of Oklahoma and now a resident of Colorado.

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