America, Home of the Brave
I first read Mr. Hines’ book in 2016. Since then, he and his novel have won many awards. I thought that the week of our Independence Day holiday was a great time to look back at this memorable debut novel.
I scroll through thousands of tweets to find books that pique my interest. Then I click, read and review my book finds so I can share my curated list with you.
What books pique my interest and beckon to me?
A cover that is creative, lovely and inviting.
An author with an interesting bio on Twitter who is an engaging friend.
A book blurb that sounds fresh, intriguing or lyrical.
I have no special formula– just “aha! I can’t wait to read this book.”
I do not solicit manuscripts. I curate these on my own. Because…I am a writer who loves to read, learn and encourage!
Bishop’s War (Bishop’s Series Book 1)
“The baddest of the bad, the bravest of the brave.”
I met the author, Raphael Amadeus Hines, on Twitter. I had tweeted him when I saw that he was in the final stages of launching his debut novel, Bishop’s War. He replied and I kept track of his book and learned it was to be released on February 22, 2106. Time for me to meet Sgt. John Bishop!
Sgt. Bishop is a Green Beret, Special Ops, and the most decorated American soldier in recent history. But we don’t meet him at the beginning of the story. First we meet his family, headed by ruthless patriarch Gonzalo Valdez who was born in Panama. As a boy, he moved to New York City and through the years, he and his large family established a vast crime syndicate. When we do meet Bishop, he has just returned from Afghanistan where he fought in the War on Terror with distinction. He returns home to bury his demons and start a normal life. His normal life lasts a few hours before he single-handedly stops a terrorist attack in Union Square and saves thousands by his brave actions.
The plot continues as the government, the terrorists and the Valdez family square-off and lead us on may plot twists and turns. Bishop’s War is not an old lady’s cozy mystery. This book is not for the faint-hearted and the thrills, intensity and excitement are full throttle. I had a blast with this this military thriller, and enjoyed the large cast of heroic characters. Some of the players are active young men, who are drinkers and ribald at times- but how else could they face these life and death situations? I appreciated the details in the book; we learn about military weapons and tactics. Bishop’s War is an exciting story. Men fight wars, but the most dangerous enemy is the one within their hearts and minds.
Visit the author’s website to learn more about Rafael Hines and his writing. He is a great supporter and encourager of our armed forces and veterans. He has a page encouraging us to donate and/or volunteer a positive act of kindness. You will also want to read his Veteran’s Day Call to Action. I am grateful that Rafael is using his voice to send us a powerful reminder of how much we owe our service men and women and our veterans.
About the Author
