September 3, 2025 by D. Wallace Peach

August: a Meadow, a Beach, and Book Reviews

The dry days of August brought more changes to the meadow. The deer have flattened the crisp grass, and the dog sneezes on our berry-picking walks. My legs and arms are scratched bloody, but I have gallons of blackberries in my freezer for winter jam.

August heat shimmers
through hints of autumn color
as seasons transform
meadows sharpen and grow soft
blackberries and thistledown

We took off to the beach for a weekend to beat the heat.

the cold Pacific
lonely sunsets, windy dunes
irresistible

And now, August Book Reviews!

I’m getting back to something of a normal reading routine, and have some excellent books to share. You can start stocking up for the cold (or hot) weather that’ll be here before we know it. Below are my reviews of a feel-good novel about friendship, a four-footed poetry collection, book five of a fantasy series, and a reimagining of Baba Yaga folklore.

Click on the covers for Amazon global links.

*****

A Bold Bargain, The Bargainers Series Book 3, by Jan Sikes

New Release

This is my favorite book of the Bargainer series, and what a wonderful way to end these feel-good stories. The tale will resonate with anyone who loves an old person, has chosen to overcome a difficult childhood, or wants to make a difference in the lives of others, especially those in need. It’s an uplifting story, and at times, quite emotional.

Jack Blaine had a role in the previous books, and in this tale, he takes the lead. He’s nineteen and has a job with the Missouri Conservationists, responsible for dealing with illegal poaching, among other wildlife and land-use issues. One plot line of the story is Jack’s investigation into the poaching of minks on private property. This task is responsible for most of the book’s danger and action. It also delivers him to the doorstep of Coralee Fletcher, one of several characters that Jack befriends and is committed to helping. Coralee is an elderly woman very near the end of her life, and she makes a bold bargain with Jack.

The pace moves along, and I read the book in one sitting. As a caregiver, I related strongly to Jack, his personal commitment, and how life can get very, very busy quickly when people depend on you. The story also dives into end-of-life topics: declining health, frailty, fear of death, the dying process, and grief. It’s written with heartfelt care and compassion, and it felt authentic based on my experiences with hospice. Jack has a heart of gold.

A delightful part of the story was reconnecting with the characters from the other books. There’s a lot of goodness happening here, and the series is a testament to the strength of family, and the power of kindness to transform lives. A highly recommended series to readers who enjoy uplifting stories about good people overcoming obstacles and choosing to make a difference. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry, by Lauren Scott

New Release

Anyone who’s ever loved a dog (or another furred or feathered family member) will be able to relate to this lovely collection of poetry about the author’s Chocolate Lab named Copper.

Copper’s transition over the Rainbow Bridge and the author’s immense grief provided the inspiration to chronicle the lab’s personality, relationships, and life in poetry. The poems are heartwarming, joyous, funny, loving, and sad. A few of them are written from Copper’s point of view. The style of poetry ranges from silly limericks to deeply emotional free-form pieces.

The collection is written in two parts, each beginning with a short section of prose. The first piece of prose describes adopting Copper, the love-at-first-sight experience of meeting the perfect pet. The second describes losing Copper after 13 years and the author’s devastating grief. The poems in each section follow the theme accordingly.

Tour De Force (From the first part, a limerick)

Prancing on the left like a well-bred horse
Staying in step, no drifting off course
Stopping for sniffs
And frequent leg lifts
His character is a tour de force

Thunder Booms (From the second part)

No nails click
on the kitchen floor
house of silence
thunder booms

Between the poems are photos of Copper: smiling, playing, rolling in the yard, taking walks with his humans, and calmly contemplating life. Highly recommended to readers who have loved and lost a cherished pet and enjoy poetic memoirs.

*****

Vengeance Borne: New Blood Book 5, by W.D Kilpack III

In Book Five, the epic battle between good and evil moves a step closer. Some plot lines continue their gradual trajectory, some take a dramatic and heart-wrenching turn, while others escalate, pointing to increased conflict and terrible decisions down the road. As with the other books in this series, the pace varies from a slow burn, heavy with detail, to a breathtaking sprint that had me holding my breath.

Nathaar, the Guardian of Maarihk, and his friend Ellis the Fist both leave the main group of Rilari warriors on separate missions. Nathaar returns to the Ancient Wood for one of the most tense, heartbreaking, and emotionally riveting scenes in the series so far. I was so immersed in what was happening that the physical book completely disappeared. I was there, and I think I stopped breathing. Now that’s some great writing.

Both Nathaar and Ellis end up encountering new allies to add to their amassing force. These are the slower-paced sections of the book, and they add a number of new characters, names, and descriptions, including more women who want to woo Nathaar. For some reason, I find most of the women annoying, probably because I’m still committed to Darshelle, his first love, despite everything that’s happened. Anyway, there’s an extensive appendix in the back for those of us who lose track of details.

Nathan’s story, which I always find gripping, occupies most of the book’s second half. His identity as the Crown Prince is still a secret from all but Bu, his demon lover. Their relationship is complex, and her hidden motives alone keep me on edge. A dangerous and powerful character from the second book returns to the story and takes command of Nathan’s future, drawing him closer to the evil domain of the Emperor who now rules Maarihk.

This book ends dramatically with Nathaar again in the Ancient Wood, enduring a test that assures him the allegiance of the Great Beasts. I can feel the story building and look forward to learning what happens next. Book 6 isn’t out yet, so it will be a bit. Recommended to readers of epic fantasy who love a sweeping story, with marvelous world-building, and a promise of more good stuff to come. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

the House with Chicken Legs, by Sophie Anderson

I loved the cover of this book (and I’m a sucker for a great cover). The story ended up being just as delightful. In Slavic folklore, Baba Yaga is often described as a hag-like witch who lives in a hut on chicken legs. Sometimes she’s depicted as helpful and wise, other times as fearsome and destructive, existing on the edge of the human and magical realms.

In this revisioning of the Baba Yaga myth, she’s a kind and loving grandmother, Guardian of the Gate through which the newly dead must pass on their journey to the stars. The nightly ritual begins with a wonderful meal for the dead, and an opportunity to tell their stories and make meaning of their lives.

Thirteen-year-old Marinka, Baba Yaga’s granddaughter, is destined to be the next Yaga and Guardian of the Gate. But being stuck in a house with chicken legs that are constantly on the move is the last thing she wants. She wants a normal life, to stay in one place, to go to school, and to make “real live, living friends.” When she attempts to do just that, things go terribly wrong.

At its heart, this is a coming-of-age story about growing up, learning what matters, and crafting a life around those people and things we value. Love, friendship, duty, and loss are some of the themes woven into the tale. Typical of most personal-growth journeys, Marinka’s is full of mistakes, and yet she wouldn’t have discovered her place and happiness without them.

The characters, including the house with chicken legs (who is definitely a character), are wonderfully fresh and creative. This is a fast-paced, light-hearted, and heartwarming read with some powerful messages. Highly recommended to readers who love a creative tale. Appropriate for ages 9 and up.

*****

Thanks for stopping by and…

Happy Reading!

August 5, 2025 by D. Wallace Peach

July: Midsummer Meadow, Art, and Book Reviews

Through the dry days of July, my meadow never failed to enchant me. Green surrendered to purple, gold, and feathery seed. Blackberries started to ripen, and I nibbled on the little gifts despite their tartness.

I love the way the evening sunlight slants through the leaves and across the grass. Light, the intensity and tone of it, can alter a whole landscape. I wish it could change a whole world.

*Caught one early evening on my trail cam.*

a doe and her fawns
bed down among the thistles
safe in my meadow

I also spent some time creating art for my forest. It kept me from sinking into the terrible news of the day.

*A painting on the glass panel of a salvaged door*. The door’s bottom half was rotted, so I sawed it off and used the window half – hung sideways.

Gigi, from Rethinking Life, posted a beautiful wind chime on her blog. She inspired me to make one with things I found in the Gnome Forest. Mine doesn’t chime, but it does twirl.

And now, July Book Reviews!

I only read two books in July, but they were long ones, so they count as four, or maybe six! Hehe. I popped five stars on both of these. Below are my reviews for a historical fiction set in 15th-century Transylvania and book four of a massive fantasy series.

Click on the covers for Amazon global links.

*****

When Secrets Bloom, by Patricia Furstenberg

New Release

This work of literary fiction is intricately crafted, a spider’s web of delicate strands that slowly intertwine as the story unfolds. In 15th-century Transylvania, superstitions abound, ethnic hierarchies create tension, war with the Ottomans is an ever-present dark cloud, and Vlad of Wallachia has yet to become Vlad the Impaler. And, naturally, there’s greed, deception, and murder.

The story follows two characters, Kate and Moise, and though their tale is interconnected, they never actually meet. The book starts with Kate’s story. She’s a successful healer with inherited wealth, and those qualities raise the hackles of Kronstadt’s powerful men. How better to remove her than to accuse her of witchery? Within her story are regrets about a lost love. Also, memories of working as a healer during the war at Vlad’s side, a sympathetic character for whom she feels a great deal of fondness.

Moise is a Jewish man who works in a print shop and is determined to find a stolen book, a mesmerizing tome with a hidden compartment that once held a treasure map. He’s not the only one who knows the book’s secret, and there are men who will murder to obtain it. Within Moise’s story, there is also a search for love, and shadowy memories of Vlad when he was a young soldier and visited the print shop about a secret book.

The descriptions of books in this tale are magical:

“Books, child, are not to be swallowed whole like broth on a feasting day. Lo. They are to be tasted, questioned, turned upon the tongue of the mind. When you open one, do not ask only what it says, but what it dares to mean.”

Furstenberg’s sentences flow, and her use of language is captivating. I noticed early on that this book is very light on physical descriptions, instead focusing on the characters’ thoughts, feelings, and memories. It’s one of the more “internal” reads I’ve encountered. The lack of grounding in sensory descriptions gave the story a mystical/shadowy sense of darkness.

The story unfolds at a moderate pace, and it ends with only a few loose ends tied up. In the afterword, the author shares that another installment of the story is in the works. The end matter also includes historical data and a list of references for further reading. Highly recommended to readers who enjoy historical novels, tales full of secrets, and literary fiction. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Rilari: Book Four of New Blood, by W.D Kilpack III

This book marked a much-anticipated pivot for me. The story splits from two character-threads into three, following the actions of Natharr, the Guardian of Maarihk; Nathan, the naïve and misled Crown Prince; and Darshalle, the abandoned woman who lost not only Natharr, but the boy she raised and loved like a son.

The pivot was marked by the completion of Natharr’s and his Rilari warriors’ preparations. These preparations dominated the last two books and had a slowing impact on the pace. Finally, at this book’s 40% mark, they’ve acquired their magical weapons and are ready to act. And act they do. The pace responds, ramping up significantly. I relished the shift and the tension that came from navigating new peoples, both tolerant and dangerous. There are battles, of course, and not without losses among Natharr’s group.

Nathan’s story takes a dark turn, and I continued to be captivated by his gradual alignment with the forces of chaos. He’s naïve and finding his way in a strange world. His slow slide into darkness and brutality feels realistic, which is especially frightening since this isn’t a behavior limited to fantasy novels. Darshalle’s story and the losses in the Ancient Wood are just plain distressing, and that’s all I’ll share about that.

The danger and violence definitely increase with this book, and I don’t doubt that there’s more to come – the fate of mankind is in balance, so it’s bound to get intense. For those who enjoy epic stories about good versus evil, this book is a keeper. For those who want to read about fairies and butterflies, look away. Just saying…

Finally, I want to mention that there were bits of research in the story that demonstrated the author’s attention to detail. The fact that it’s challenging to draw a sword sheathed on one’s back is one such fact (unlike in the movies). And there are some realistic descriptions of “impaling.” Eeek.

This series must be read in order as it’s one long epic story. I’m on to Book Five, the last published to date. Recommended to readers of dark fantasy along the lines of George RR Martin’s Game of Thrones. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Thanks for stopping by and…

Happy Reading!

August 4, 2025 by D. Wallace Peach

Sally Cronin Shares Some Great Reads

Today’s my second visit with outstanding blogger, author, and supporter of the indie community: Sally Cronin.

She’s drawn from my blog archives and shared one of my book review posts. These are all highly entertaining reads, and if you missed one or need another nudge, head over.

Smorgasbord Posts from Your Archives 2025 – My Pick of two of your posts- November Book Reviews: Part Two! by Diana Wallace Peach

While you’re there, you might check out Sally’s books. They’re all excellent, and this one’s delightful. Here’s my review:

Just an Odd Job Girl, by Sally Cronin

One of the books that flew west with me was Sally Cronin’s Just an Odd Job Girl. In more ways than one, it’s a great summer story.

I picked up this book while on vacation and thoroughly enjoyed it. A quick read at 156 pages, the book begins with an older Imogen. At 50, she’s on her own, traded-in by her husband for a younger “fast-tracker.” After 25 years of raising children and keeping house, she feels frumpy and bored, and decides to find a job.

The temp agency asks for a resume of her work experience, and all she has is a long list of pre-marriage odd jobs, starting with a summer stint as a teenager at a seaside gift kiosk and rambling through temporary positions with a dental office, department store, bar, funeral parlor, boys school, and country inn.

As the reader joins Imogene on a reflective journey through her odd jobs, it’s impossible not to laugh at her antics, the colorful characters she meets along the way, and the predicaments she gets herself into and out of. What I enjoyed most was young Imogene’s humanity. She’s a wonderful combination of funny, compassionate, resourceful, and fearless. I couldn’t wait to see the fix she got into next.

In addition to laughs, Just an Odd Job Girl has a lovely message for young adults as well as those of us getting on in age: that life is full of opportunities, that wonderful people are everywhere, and that you are never to old to grow. Get your copy for the beach or backyard hammock. You won’t be disappointed.

***

Comments are closed here. If you get a chance to stop by Sally’s, I’ll see you there.

July 21, 2025 by D. Wallace Peach

I’m visiting with Sally Cronin today

Today I’m visiting with awesome blogger, author, and supporter of the indie community: Sally Cronin.

She’s raided my blog archives and shared one of my posts. I had to chuckle at the one she picked. If you have a chance to visit, I’ll see you there.

***

Sally is one of the most generous bloggers I’ve met, and how she manages to keep up her wide range of posts continues to amaze me. I don’t think she sleeps.

If you’re not already a fan, check out her blog for book and author promotions, reviews, music, humor, food and health tips, short stories, and poetry. All that, and . . . she’s an exquisite writer. If you head over, take a moment to check out her books!

Smorgasbord Posts from Your Archives 2025 – My Pick of two of your posts – #Roleplay Pirates, a Mural, and a few Mountains by Diana Wallace Peach

Sally’s Books

(Comments are closed here)

See you at Sally’s

June 26, 2025 by D. Wallace Peach

June Meadows, Book Reviews, and an Award

I have a horse pasture, but no horses. Over the years, my neglect has transformed the pasture into a wild meadow, resplendent with life: oxeyes and blackberries, bees and dragonflies, moles and mice, song birds, the scat of coyote, deer, and elk. And a vast variety of grasses. I’ve taken daily walks through the June meadow and marveled at her changing face.

a study of grass
enchants my evening ambles
so ordinary
a sea of subtle color
sunlit waves, ripening seeds.

(a gallery of grass)

And now, June Book Reviews!

June wasn’t a huge reading month, but that doesn’t mean it wasn’t satisfying. I have three wonderful reads to share today. Perfect for July’s pile! Below are my 4 and 5-star reads of a fantasy novel, a poetry collection, and a historical fiction.

Click on the covers for Amazon global links.

*****

Daniel Boone and Me, by N. A. Granger

New Release

I enjoyed Granger’s historical fiction novel “The Last Pilgrim” and looked forward to this newest novella about the life of Daniel Boone. The book begins with the tragic death of Eliza and Thatch’s parents at the hands of the Shawnee. Both children are taken in by Boone and his family, and Eliza becomes the narrator for the story of Colonel Boone’s life. The book mainly covers the events that occurred in Boonesborough, KY, from 1775 to 1779, with a summary of the following years until Boone’s death in 1820.

The story is well researched, and Granger provides her resources. She also acknowledges that the story reflects the “white man’s” version of history, and I appreciated that she shared reading recommendations that tell the tale from a Native American perspective. Because the book is historical in nature, it narrates the actual events of the time and is filled with factual information about life on the frontier, including its hardships.

The characters’ words and actions, told through Eliza’s young point of view, bring it to life. Eliza’s POV makes this story more hers, in a personal and emotional way, than Boone’s, and some of the events that he experienced (his encounters with the Shawnee, for example) are told to her by Boone rather than shown to the reader directly.

This story about the American frontier and one of its legends contained historical information that I didn’t know, about Boone, his encounters with Native Americans, and the fight for American Independence in Kentucky. There are battles, strategic maneuvering, bad guys, a court case, tragedies, and weddings. Highly recommended to fans of the American frontier, history buffs, and readers of historical fiction.

*****

Gratitude & No Fairy Tale: Just Her Poetry Book Three by D. L. Finn

New Release

This is the third book of poetry in Finn’s “Just Her Poetry” series. It’s a combination of new poems as well as poems once published as part of the author’s memoir No Fairy Tale: The Reality of a Girl Who Wasn’t a Princess and Her Poetry.

Under the heading “Gratitude Poetry and Photos,” Finn combines her photos and haiku (short syllabic poetry) into haibuns (a form of poetry that links the two). One of my favorites is Love’s Journey, a haiku that complements a photo of gentle waves on a beach.

love’s journey begins
leaving its footprints behind
wisdom’s waves renew

The book transitions shortly into poems from No Fairy Tale…. The author shares that the original collection is no longer available, but is being reworked into a different format, and these poems won’t be included there.

These poems are longer free-form pieces, many but not all based on nature and the author’s experiences and impressions of the natural world. Those that diverge from the subject of nature touch on poignant parts of the author’s personal life. Some include photos; all are beautiful. I have a bunch of favorites, among them A Winter’s Night:

The silvery snow sparkles
From the moon’s illumination.
All is quiet and hushed
As the stars gleam brightly
In the black winter sky.
A lone howl off in the distance—

The soulful silence gone.
I glance out once more
At this rare winter beauty,
Then snuggle into heated heaven
To sleep the slumber
Only nights like this can bring.

Highly recommended to poetry readers, especially those who enjoy poems about nature.

*****

Demon Seed: Book Three of New Blood, by W.D Kilpack III

This is book 3 of the New Blood series, and I have to start being careful about spoilers in these reviews. I decided to talk a bit about the story’s pace, first. This is an immersive story, the world building vast, the characters and their relationships deeply developed. The attention to detail is part of the fun, and it’s easy to forget the real world when reading. These factors do lend toward a moderate pace, not a bad thing for most fantasy readers, but something to be aware of.

The book is still divided into two strong subplots. The first centers on Natharr. He and his Order of Light are finding their way in a changed world, with new psychic skills, new peoples and beings, and for those who enjoy dragons, there be dragons! Relationships are changing, and I’m not always happy about it. That’s one of the compelling things about dark fantasy – unpredictability. Authors don’t mind when the heroes are flawed, when they defy readers’ expectations, and break their hearts. It’s a love/hate thing that keeps me glued to the pages.

The other subplot is the crown prince Nathan’s story. This part moves quickly and is loaded with tension and danger, and I just knew Nathan was naively heading into serious peril. He just can’t see it, and it’s breathtaking to watch. Poor Darshelle is a mess, and I really felt for her. I wanted her to make it. I wanted Nathan to get a grip – but he’s a teenager – enough said.

Like previous books, this installment of the story doesn’t have a distinct conclusion and should be read in order as part of a single, ongoing epic tale. Part of the danger of a long series like this is that it will sag in the middle or lose some of its cohesion. That hasn’t happened. I’m looking forward to Book 4. Highly recommended to readers of epic fantasy. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

And finally, a little unabashed self-promotion…

Last Thursday, I learned that The Tale of the Seasons’ Weaver won Gold for Fantasy at the Next Generation Indie Book Awards. I won’t be attending the awards ceremony in Philadelphia, but it gave me something lovely to celebrate on my back deck.

Amazon Global Link

*****

Thanks for stopping by and…

Happy Reading!

May 27, 2025 by D. Wallace Peach

May Book Reviews

Perhaps you’ve noticed that I’ve been missing a lot lately. My muse has emigrated to parts unknown, and I’ve been spending my days outside, working on a host of projects, some creative and others with a hammer and paintbrush. I’ve decided to stop badgering myself about writing and blogging, to retreat into the trees, and to simply take the summer off. Except for my monthly book reviews….

I’d miss you if I disappeared completely.

I have five highly satisfying reads to share today. Perfect for the lawnchair, hammock, or beach. Or for an overstuffed chair by a cozy fire (in the event you’re heading into winter).

Below are my 4 and 5-star reads of a fantasy novel, a poetic memoir, a poetry collection from South Africa, a Gothic murder mystery, and a cozy/chick lit mystery.

Click on the covers for Amazon global links.

*****

Embracing the Power to Live, by Marsha Ingrao

New Release

I don’t think I’ve read a book quite like this one before. It’s a memoir in some ways, a poetry collection in others, and perhaps most of all, a nostalgic reflection on the memorable moments of the author’s life. Ingrao defines it best in her afterword: “…part memoir, part advice, and part fun and silliness.”

The book has nine sections, each “Embracing” a theme in Ingrao’s life: the Power of Language, Love, Laughter, to Learn, to Listen, to List, of Locality, of Leisure, and to Live. Within these sections are her thoughts on creativity, poetry, and writing, her first love and mature love, her faith in God, pampered pets, dealing with change, finding her voice, life in Arizona, her activities, and the challenges and grace found in aging.

Within each theme, she reflects on bits of her life’s experience in both prose and poetry, the two linked and complementing each other. Bible verses are sprinkled in as a further reflection on a particular memory or musing.

Ingrao uses a number of poetic forms from limericks to rondels and pantoums, to freeform and found-form poetry, to a wide variety of syllabic forms, including haiku, haibun, and tanka (to name just a few). There’s an appendix explaining each of the forms in the back of the book. I found many of the poems and experiences relatable, particularly those that mirrored my own journey through aging.

As an example of what readers will find within the pages: the author, as a kindergartner, had an unrequited crush on a sixth grader. This poem (a double tanka) accompanied her learning about keeping her crushes to herself:

Mike rode all the kids
on his twenty-six-inch bike
up and down the street
one at a time he pushed us
giggling and begging for more

sweetest sixth-grade boy
my heart popped when he came by
I knew where he lived
stopped by and walked him to school
each day until his mom called

A highly recommended collection to readers of memoirs and poetry, who might be interested in something unique. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Burning Butterflies, by Robbie Cheadle

New Release

Similar to Cheadle’s poetry collection “Lion Scream,” her latest book is a testament to the raw beauty of South Africa’s wild animals, birds, and plant life, as well as the danger they face due to loss of habitat and climate change. In her foreword, the author shares her mission: to educate readers about Africa’s natural treasures and share her concerns about their survival. Some, like the Atlas Bear of West Africa, are already gone—forever.

The book includes Cheadle’s poetry, artwork, color photos, and short video links. My very old Kindle can’t follow links, so I read the book on my phone, and it was well worth it. Much of the poetry is educational, sharing the physical features, habits, family life, and other facts about different species.

The collection is divided into four parts: Animal Poems, Bird Poems, Plant Poems, and Nature Chaos. It includes free form and syllabic poetry, micro poems, and song parodies. Some of my favorite pieces were: “Lone Elephant,” “Leopard in the Rain,” and “Sleeping Lion.” A beautiful poem, titled “My Love” (a heptastich) seemed to wrap up the theme of the collection for me.

My Love

untamed
gold and orange veld
rolling in autumn-colored waves
symbolic
of Africa’s savage spirit
therein lies its beating heart
my love

I highly recommend this multimedia collection of poems, artwork, photos, and videos, to both children and adults who are fascinated by African wildlife. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Draakensky: A Supernatural Tale of Magick and Romance, by Paula Cappa

A living wind, a mysterious white wolf, an old yew tree, and river magic add to the haunting feel of this paranormal mystery. I picked it up for its beautiful language and imagery, and wasn’t disappointed. Gothic creepiness not only pervades the excellent writing, but the setting, tone, and pace.

Heida Morland was murdered, her body discovered wrapped in the branches of an old yew growing by the river that runs through the Draakensky estate. Her devoted sister, Jaa, is determined to finish Heida’s project—a book based on the poems of Rainer Maria Rilke. Jaa hires sketch artist Charlotte Knight to draw interpretations of the poems while staying at the estate. Conflicts with Jaa only heighten Charlotte’s unease. Disembodied voices, visions, a vigilant wolf, and threatening owls add to an ominous sense of foreboding. Something wants Charlotte gone from Draakensky.

The point of view is shared by Charlotte, Jaa, and Marc, a local bar manager who adds an element of romance to the story. The characters are well-designed with full personalities, and they each have their share of secrets, secrets that kept me on guard. Charlotte was more transparent than Jaa and Marc, and I didn’t know if they were trustworthy through most of the book, especially Marc, whose motives I regularly questioned.

This isn’t a high-action story, but there’s a lot of mystery and tension that persists from the beginning to end, and it kept me engaged. I appreciated the way the paranormal elements were deftly entwined into the very nature of the Draakensky estate. They felt timeless, indomitable, tied up with ancient lore. Highly recommended to readers of dark Gothic novels, creepy supernatural stories, paranormal romance, and lovely writing. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Order of Light: Book Two of New Blood, by W.D Kilpack III

Book Two of the New Blood fantasy series didn’t disappoint. This is a lengthy series with some pretty hefty installments, but I’ve loved getting lost in the characters, the worldbuilding (both immense and intricate), and a plot full of unexpected twists and turns. This is one of those stories where a reader has no idea about what’s going to happen next.

The tale picks up where the first book left off. Natharr, our main protagonist, has left the woman and child he loves in the magical Ancient Wood, and returned to the world of men to resume his duty as Guardian of Maarihk. Time has passed more quickly than it did in the forest, and the world is in ruin. But Natharr isn’t alone; he has an ally in a mysterious old man named Ellis, a crafter of magical contraptions, who seems to know him almost better than he knows himself. Together, they gather the forces that become the “Order of Light.”

This half of the book has a lot of new characters to remember. Some personalities rose to the forefront, memorable as the ground is laid for them to play pivotal roles. The rest, I suspect, are placeholders and will come into their own later in the series. The assembling of the Order, its evolution, and its preparations for battle, result in a moderate pace for the second quarter of the read.

Then, at about the halfway mark, the story shifts to Nathan, the crown prince, (though he doesn’t know that’s who he is). Seven years have passed since Natharr left him and Darshelle in the Ancient Wood. The magic, mysteries, and danger of the forest mold Nathan’s experiences and perspectives as he becomes a young man. He develops secret relationships with strange beings that seem to support him, though as a reader, I distrusted almost all of them. This was the best part of Book Two for me—it was unpredictable, emotionally wrenching, and fraught with danger. I couldn’t look away.

The character-driven nature of the read continues through Book Two. The characters are emotionally complex, richly developed, and believable. I was particularly taken by Ellis’s character and his genuine respect and love for Natharr—it’s a touching brotherhood shaped by a heroic and tragic history that Natharr is only beginning to understand. His “Sight,” his ability to obtain glimpses of the events spanning the arc of time, gives the story an epic feel.

The book ends with Natharr and Ellis emerging into a new time and place in the world with the Order of Light ready to enter behind them. It’s a great hook for the next in the series, and I’m eager to jump into Book Three. Highly recommended to readers of fantasy series who enjoy deep worldbuilding, wonderful writing, rich characters, and an unpredictable plot. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Death by Sample Size, by Susie Black

Holly Shlivnik works in the bustling world of California swimsuit fashion, a competitive industry full of backroom deals, strong-arming, and gossip. When Holly finds Bunny Frank’s body in the elevator, and her coworker Sophie is arrested, the gossip machine takes over. Holly, unable to keep her nose out of the investigation, rallies her female cohorts to find the killer.

I’d characterize this story as part Chick Lit and part cozy mystery, with a large dollop of humor. This is the first book in the series, so there’s a bunch of colorful characters introduced in the first few chapters. Holly carried the point of view. She’s one of those people who can’t help being witty and snarky, and her act-now/think-later approach gets her and her friends into some tight spots that are quite entertaining.

Except for Detective Martinez, the men in the story are gossip-worthy, and there are some vicious women, including the deceased Bunny. Bunny isn’t the only one who gives up the ghost along the way. The pace speeds along, and the plot works, little clues dropped along the way for the epiphany and final showdown. The cast of conniving characters generated several red herrings, and I was in the dark about the murderer until the end.

Though the women’s personalities drive the story, I also enjoyed the glimpse into the swimwear industry, which provides the backdrop for all the action. I highly recommend this book to readers of cozies who also want something light-hearted and fun. The book stands alone and is a delightful introduction to the rest of the series.

*****

Happy Reading!

May 8, 2025 by D. Wallace Peach

April Book Reviews

Spring has definitely arrived in Oregon. I’m late on my April reviews, but I have six excellent books for you. Need some summer reads? I hope you find one or two here.

As you can probably imagine, I receive a handful of review requests every day. I figured it was time to add a review policy to my blog. My policy continues to be: “I read for fun. I read to give back to the wonderful indie community that has supported my own adventure in writing.” But now it’s a little more official and can be found on my side menu.

Below are my 4 and 5-star reads of a fantasy novel, a global poetry collection, a collection of dark short stories, a prehistoric adventure, and the final two books in a story about family love in South Africa.

Click on the covers for Amazon global links.

*****

Crown Prince: Book One of New Blood, by W. D. Kilpack III

I’ll start off by saying this is one of the best fantasies I’ve read in a while, and I’m glad it’s a series because I’m eager to begin the second book. In fact, I’ve already bought the next four! This is high fantasy, loaded with rich worldbuilding and steeped in magic. At the same time, the characters are deeply drawn, making this a character-driven and emotionally complex read.

Natharr is the main character, and most of the story is told from his point of view. He’s the Guardian of Maarihk and gifted with “sight”—an imperfect ability to gain glimpses of the future. When the Kingdom of Marrihk falls in battle, he flees with the king’s newborn heir and the infant’s protective wet nurse, a strong-willed woman named Darshelle. They enter the Ancient Wood, a dangerous place populated by strange creatures and beings, fashioned by the Olde Gods long ago. Natharr’s task, with the aid of Darshelle, is to keep the child safe until he is old enough to claim the throne.

There are some great battle scenes at the start of the story, including difficult decisions for Natharr since he must hide all traces of his flight with the prince. I love stories that put characters between a rock and a hard place. Natharr takes his role as Guardian seriously, but he’s not above second-guessing himself. His relationship with Darshelle and the prince (whom they name Nathan) provides an opportunity to see him as a man struggling between duty and the love of a “family” he never thought was possible.

It’s a fascinating world, peppered with wonderfully unique creatures with distinct personalities—some helpful, some deadly, and many somewhere in between. The characters are all nuanced, multi-layered, and thoroughly believable. All this sets the stage for what’s to come, when duty requires Natharr to leave the prince and Darshelle behind. The ending has a couple of cliffhangers, so be prepared for that urge to read onward. Highly recommended to any reader who loves a good fantasy series! (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku, edited by Gabriela Marie Milton

New Release

Nearly 240 poets from around the world contributed to this best-selling anthology of haiku, sharing their reflections on the theme of tranquility. Haiku often emphasizes simplicity and nature, reflecting on impermanence or a moment caught in time. Tranquility is the perfect theme for the form, and this collection didn’t disappoint with its poetic pearls, each worth savoring.

Haiku is a Japanese form of short poetry—typically written as three lines with a syllable count of 5/7/5. In its traditional form, haiku includes a kigo, a word or phrase indicating the season and connecting the poem to nature’s cycle of life. This anthology includes haiku that abide by the ancient form as well as poems that allow for greater artistic freedom, all while maintaining the original tone and intent.

Each poet provided five haiku, arranged together on a single page, and I’m honored to be among them. The sheer volume of poetry makes this a generous collection, and yet, it isn’t meant to be hurried. I read it in a week, but will happily read it again, a page or so a day.

Some of my favorite poems were visually vivid with beautiful imagery, or they evoked a mood, emotion, or memory. Here are five examples of what I found inside the pages:

By Nise Griffin:
The lichen oak fence
leads the eye to the border-
where nightingales wait

By Matthew Rhodes:
She walks, glancing back,
her summer dress a shifting
symphony of silk.

By Cheryl Batavia:
Newly fallen snow—
Our footprints, ephemeral,
our breath, transient clouds.

By Susan Canganelli:
sitting on a rock
ancient winds blow through my soul
a sparrow flies by

By Tess:
from one bookmarked page
emerges a butterfly
wise are her tattooed wings

*****

Dark Nocturnes, by Suzanne Craig Whytock

New Release

I’ve read Craig-Whytock’s short stories before and knew I was in for a treat. This collection of 32 dark tales didn’t disappoint, and though I could have spread them out over a week’s time to savor the fun, I ended up devouring them in a day.

This speculative fiction collection has a lot of variety within its pages. Almost all of the stories have a dark, creepy vibe. Some are sinister, for sure, with twisted characters and horror plots, but others are campy or quirky; a few are heartbreaking, and there’s even a touch of humor. A number of tales are told from a child’s strange point of view, and you know how creepy kids can be in horror stories.

As I browsed back through the collection for the purpose of writing a review, I was surprised to discover I’d dog-eared 13 favorites before I was halfway through. I narrowed them down to some standouts:

Landscape with the Fall of Icarus – exquisitely written and deeply haunting
Dark Nocturnes – another beautifully written story with a gothic feel
Heading for Shore – a heartbreaking story about sibling loss, and one of my favs
Salvage – wonderfully quirky and creative, as well as oh so weird!
Just the Right Size – a creepy kid tale; this one gave me goosebumps
The Women’s Circle – how some practical women deal with a Peeping Tom
The Woods are Lovely, Dark, and Deep – a dark revenge tale
Misophonia – another excellent story from a child’s point of view.

Highly recommended to readers who enjoy twisted, dark speculative fiction, wonderful variety, and excellent writing. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Badlands: Savage Land Book 2, by Jacqui Murray

New Release

Book Two of the Savage Land series continues where Book One, Survival of the Fittest, left off. (Review of Book One is here.) A devastating volcanic eruption has forced a mass migration and a search for a new homeland. The characters from the first book break into three groups, planning to reunite at the Shoreless Sea. Yu’ung and the Old One head for the mountains, where the Old One will remain. Shanadar leads the People (the Neanderthals), and Fierce leads the Tall Ones.

This book focuses mostly on Yu’ung’s journey, touching to a lesser degree on the other groups. She faces not only the environmental challenges of earthquakes, fire, ash, and a dearth of food, but her worst enemy—the roving groups of aggressive Tall Ones who lack the reasonableness of Fierce and kill or enslave anyone they encounter. Yu’ung is brave, intelligent, and competent, and uses her wits to protect herself and the stray survivors she’s collected on her journey.

Once again, Murray’s research shines in this novel, demonstrating the many skills developed by the Neanderthal people, as well as their ability to observe and learn from others and their environment. The story’s pace eases during these “teaching moments” but there is plenty of action to spur the reader on. Intellectually, the Neanderthals seem on par with modern humans, though much tougher and more capable of living successfully off the land. Changes in weaponry, medicine, clothing, and language, as well as an evolving spiritual element, demonstrate their advancement over their more primitive ancestors.

The author provides ancillary information in both the front and back matter of the book, including a fascinating glimpse into her research and a bibliography for further study. It was interesting to see how her discovers about the Neanderthals were threaded through the book. There is a paranormal component to the story that adds interest, though it seems more speculative than other aspects of the research.

This second leg of the journey concludes at the Shoreless Sea. It’s not without casualties. And it’s certainly not over. Highly recommended to readers who enjoy an action-filled adventure and learning about prehistoric peoples as they faced and overcame challenges to their survival. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Sticks in a Bundle: Transitions by Pat Spencer

The account of Eshile Liyema Mthembu’s life continues in this second book. (Review of Book One here.) The year is 1972, and Eshile is 11 years old. Her family has departed from Soweto, leaving behind beloved aunties, uncles, and grandparents for a new life at the Ilanga Safari Lodge, where her father has found a job. The first half of the book takes place there, and it’s a time free of the violence and oppression of Soweto, offering a glimpse of South Africa’s beautiful landscape and treasure of wildlife.

This is a place where racial tensions are almost absent, and it serves as a sharp contrast to the first book as well as what’s to come. I enjoyed getting to know the characters more deeply, especially Eshile’s parents. Her maturing perspective was relatable and endearing, reflecting to me the genuine way that growing children begin to see their parents as complex people. Her newfound respect for her father was touching.

At about the midway mark, a tragedy befalls the family, and they must return to Soweto, where little has changed, and certainly not for the better. Eshile is reunited with her extended family and has a deepening perspective regarding the oppression and injustices of apartheid. Eshile finds herself caught up in the rising protests, increased danger, and feels she must make choices about her future, her duty to family, and her need to speak out.

This book isn’t loaded with action, especially during the first half, but I found the story engrossing nonetheless, particularly for its historical perspective, fascinating setting, child’s POV, and rich characters. It reads very much like a memoir, and Eshile and her family members are easy to root for. Highly recommended. Book 3 coming up! (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Sticks in a Bundle: The Decision, by Pat Spencer

This is Book 3 in the Sticks in a Bundle series, and I’ll be careful not to give anything away. Eshile is 15 years old, a woman according to cultural standards. Like the previous two books, this one reads like a memoir, and though there are intense action scenes, terrible violence, and plenty of danger, it’s the family’s strength, love and care, and determination to make a good life for each other that makes this a compelling read.

Once again, the story unfolds in Eshile’s point of view. And once again, life is complicated and full of choices where she must weigh her own desires against her family’s needs, and her safety against a desire to protest the cruel ideology of apartheid. Again, the bonds of family strengthen, but also the bonds of community as neighbors support each other.

I’m not an expert on apartheid or South Africa’s cultural struggles, but I appreciated that the book seemed to avoid stereotypes. Characters are nuanced, both black and white, gang members, medical professionals, business people, and church goers. Only the police seemed entirely unreliable, from indifferent to downright murderous.

This series is beautifully written with vivid descriptions, wonderful characters, and ultimately lots of heart. It ends on a high note, though Eshile’s story certainly continues. Highly recommended to readers who enjoy memoirs and South African fiction, stories about families overcoming difficult situations, and wonderfully crafted characters. I’m sorry to see the series end. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Happy Reading!

April 22, 2025 by D. Wallace Peach

Dragonwood Poetry

I’ve been spending hours in the Dragonwood, my little mountain heaven with its mossy trees, feathered ferns, and singing frogs. I found a forest trail carpeted with three-leaf clovers and tiny silver ferns. The mosquito witch hasn’t yet emerged from her rotted stump, and the muddy prints of elk are the size of my hand with fingers splayed. Life feels normal here as long as I’m outside.

I’m way behind on . . . everything. I find writing posts difficult, with my focus still scattered by the news, but touching base with you always feels good. I miss you when I’m gone for too long. So here’s a bit of syllabic poetry while I give you a glimpse of my forest.

carpets of clover
verdant trails wend through shadows
signs taken to heart

a nascent promise
earth’s sweet generosity
I share with the bees

leaves burst with spring rains
a wolf lurks among the ferns
hunting silver moths

hushed in the gloaming
elk herds stir the forest floor
a liminal world
of fiddleheads and moss veils
peepers’ nightly serenade

my red chair beckons
with a half-read book of poems
gifts of solitude
emerald-scented afternoons
and gardens ready for rain

*****

Thank you for reading.

March 31, 2025 by D. Wallace Peach

March Book Reviews

It’s almost April! How time flies. My husband and I have been working in the garden. When I moved to Oregon, the recommendation was to wait until the end of May to plant. In little over a decade, that planting date has moved forward by two months. I’ve expanded my garden, preparing for our expected food shortages. I’ll have extra to share with our food bank.

I had a splendid month of reading, though less than usual with all my gardening chores. I’m delighted to share some wonderfully absorbing reads. Below are my 4 and 5-star reads of a global poetry collection, a contemporary fiction about dysfunctional families at the highest levels of society, a YA crime solver, an 1880s western, and a 12th-century fantasy romance.

Click on the covers for Amazon global links.

*****

After Rain Skies: The Global Anthology, curated by Michelle Ayon Navajas

New Release

This anthology is the third book in the “After Rain Skies” series, composed of poems and prose curated by contributing poet Michelle Ayon Navajas. It’s a collection of voices from around the world speaking out against “all forms of abuse and violence.” In its pages, 30 poets and storytellers share the ever-present trauma of sexual, emotional, and physical abuse experienced as children, teens, and adults.

Powerful Forewords and an Introduction provide the background of how the anthology came to be. Five years after the original collection was published in Malaysia, the work of addressing violence against women and children continues with this global effort.

The offerings are personal, wrenching, and courageous. Some of the experiences are physically visceral, relating events that may have lasted mere minutes, though the scars have lingered for a lifetime. Others share abuse endured for years, cruelty that stole joy and innocence from childhood, instilled deeply rooted shame, and damaged self-esteem. These pages are filled with monsters, brutality, incredible resilience, and healing. The authors share their stories with a heartfelt desire to raise awareness and give hope to others who were once (or are currently) targets of abuse.

Most of the poets and storytellers share more than one piece of writing. The collection is divided into 7 sections, each with a short introduction about the effects of abuse: Finding Hope in the Darkness, Painful Betrayal, Love should Heal not Hurt, Living with Trauma, Silenced and Held Down, and Unstoppable Strength. The seventh section—A Research Project on Gender-based Violence by Michael Cheadle—demonstrates the immense tragedy of the violence against women and girls that continues in South Africa today.

I’ve followed and read the poetry of numerous contributors to this anthology. The collection includes a broad range of voices, and though some of my favorite poets are among them—poets who move me with the beauty and raw emotion of their work—I decided not to call out any specific contribution. All need to be heard, all are valuable, all matter as they share their lingering pain and messages of hope, healing, and recovery. Highly recommended to poetry readers who appreciate deeply moving and personal work, to readers who have been there or are there, and to readers who want to make a difference. # MeToo. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

An Honourable Institution by Laura Lyndhurst

New Release

This was a super and unexpectedly thought-provoking read about arranged marriages at the highest tiers of British society. Though the author never draws a parallel, it reminded me of the arranged marriage between Diana Spencer and Prince Charles. And we all know how that turned out.

This story is fiction, of course. Cressida diFerraro’s family has loads of money but no royal title. Hugo deVere-FitzAllan has the title, but his family is broke. Their parents make a deal that Cressida and Hugo will marry and immediately produce an heir. Or else!

Cressida is a sexually prolific party girl living on her daddy’s dollar. Hugo is gay and about to marry his lover. I didn’t find either of them particularly likable, at least in the beginning, though I did feel pity for them. Both comply against their will, and things go downhill from there, especially since they can barely hide their dislike for each other. Secondary characters add dimension to the story, softening or hardening my first impressions of the MCs.

The almost non-existent relationship between Cressida and Hugo is a train wreck. It’s hard to look away or imagine how the story will end. That kept me turning pages like an addict. The ending has a great twist that I didn’t see coming at all and really enjoyed. Highly recommended to readers of contemporary British lit, stories about relationships, and family dysfunction. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

Reuben Hayes by S. Cox

New Release

Rueben Hayes is a middle-aged ranch owner in the 1880s who parted ways with the love of his life about 19 years ago. He learns about Katherine’s death when a letter arrives for him, delivered by Katherine’s 18-year-old daughter, Sage Baylor. He can’t bring himself to read the letter, but there’s little question that Sage is his daughter. Though she still has her daddy, a senator, back in St. Louis, she and Reuben develop a close relationship. When the senator’s enemies come after Sage, Reuben is determined to keep her safe. So is Hawk, the young gunslinger working at the ranch to earn some traveling money.

I enjoyed the plot, which is fairly straightforward, and the pace was excellent, compelling me to read the book in two sittings. But what kept me glued to the pages was the characters. Reuben is the perfect mixture of hardened cowboy and overprotective father. Hawk is chivalrous and scared to death of his attraction to Sage, and Sage is a great blend of feisty and fearless without being reckless. I enjoyed every scene for its believability and appreciated the genuine care the characters felt for each other.

Secondary characters—Soggy, the cook and housekeeper; and Senator Baylor, who visits the ranch to check on his daughter—are both well-rounded. I appreciated that Rueben and Baylor come to a mutual understanding about supporting Sage. There was plenty of respect and kindness to go around.

That doesn’t mean that there aren’t wild horses, gunfights, barroom drunks, and ambushes. The book has plenty of action to complement the softer family moments and the touch of romance. Highly recommended to readers of westerns, aged cattlemen, gunfights, family love, and a touch of romance. (Kindle Unlimited)

*****

The Bloody Shoe Affair by Joy York

Most of us have a natural survival instinct that keeps us from making dangerous choices. Not so for fourteen-year-old Lily, the jailhouse keeper’s daughter, whose out-of-control curiosity and ability to manipulate adults make her a menace—as well as a great protagonist. Christi is Lily’s level-headed cousin, the main POV character, and she can’t help but get pulled into Lily’s schemes. The current scheme is to solve a double murder.

The shenanigans that ensue make for a quick pace, and the girls’ investigation actually seems plausible. Their hunt for clues and their conclusions makes sense, and of course, they keep everything to themselves or they’d get in big trouble with their parents. The whodunnit plot was pulled off expertly, and I didn’t guess the killer until it all came together at the end.

Typical of the YA genre, adults aren’t much help and function mostly in the background. Likewise, the girls are wonderfully realistic and well-rounded, wavering between grown-up behavior (Christi) and recklessness (Lily). Aside from the murder investigation, the story is sprinkled with teen fun, romantic crushes, family love, and concerns about body image and fitting in. These are handled lightly, without a lot of angst, and are endearingly relatable. There are also plenty of chuckles as Christi gets into awkward situations, frequently at her cousin’s instigation.

Not all is fun and games, though, and the ending, in particular, gets quite tense. That said, this is a clean novel with very little “on-stage” violence, and I have no hesitation recommending it to readers age 10 and up who enjoy young teen protagonists who solve crimes. Super fun and highly recommended.

*****

Magnar: The Wolves of Clan Sutherland (Book 1) by Mary Morgan

In this fantasy romance, Magnar is the leader of the legendary wolves of Clan Sutherland, men capable of shape-shifting into wolves. They are sworn to protect King William the Lion of Scotland.

When Thomas Gunn, the chieftain of Castle Steinn, refuses to marry his sister Elspeth to a Northman, he’s murdered and his castle ransacked. Elspeth and her young nephew flee into King William’s care. The king agrees to send his wolves to reclaim the castle, but first, he orders Magnar and Elspeth to wed, ensuring that no marriage can be forced upon her by the spurned Northman.

This book falls solidly into the romance genre. The sexual tension between Magnar and Elspeth— his lust and her resistance to his sexual advances—occupies most of the text. Sex, when it does occur, is explicit and thorough, but artfully written.

The main characters are believable with emotional depth and solid motivations. There’s a good variety of secondary characters with distinct personalities and relationships. Magnar is noble in his behavior despite being intensely sexual. Elspeth is a major tease (almost to the point of being cruel), and for that reason, I found her a little less likable. This is a romance, however, and love eventually wins the day.

Though I’m not usually a romance reader, it was clear to me that the quality of the writing is excellent, the pacing spot on, and the dialogue natural even with some Scottish pronunciation thrown in. Descriptions are vivid and detailed without overwhelming the story, and the paranormal elements are skillfully threaded into the tale. Highly recommended to readers of romance with sexual content and a fantasy twist.

*****

Happy Reading!

A Note to my International Friends: If you are considering travel to the US, I urge you to reconsider. The incidences of people being snatched off the street, put in chains, and indefinitely detained, without due process, are on the increase. It isn’t worth the risk to you, your partner, your children or grandchildren. I highly recommend traveling to Canada instead!

March 24, 2025 by D. Wallace Peach

Tanka Tuesday Challenges #3 and 4 – Spring

I’ve opted for honesty in my poems and to forgo the cheeriness I don’t feel. There’s so much sorrow here. So many people are hurting, and the cruelty makes my head and heart hurt. I can’t pretend that I’m okay. I hope you can bear with me while my country struggles.

Challenge #3 – A Mondo

The mondo is a syllabic form that consists of two stanzas and is usually collaborative. The first stanza asks an open-ended, poignant question. The second stanza attempts to answer the question and glean meaning from nature. Melissa Lemay wrote the first stanza below with a syllable count 5-7-7.

My response reflects the fact that in the US, 1 out of 30 children are homeless, and the rapist in charge recently cut $1 billion in funding from school lunches and food banks.

why do flowers come
in waves of purple and white
after the last winter snow?

to bury the bones
of the famished and roofless
children cast out in the cold

*****

Challenge #4 – Badger Hexastich

For this challenge, Selma Martin chose a Badger’s Hexastich, which consists of six lines with a 2-4-6-6-4-2 syllable count. It’s unrhymed and doesn’t have a title.

Spring is tiptoeing around the mountains with a return of the rain. Sunshowers are rare, but next week looks good for early vegetable starts. Working in the earth, growing food, sustains me.