Harmony Bay - REVIEWS - 5 Stars
I have always been drawn to stories surrounding sea and coastal shorelines, be it fiction or nonfiction, especially with credible characters portrayed within a waterfront community setting. Therefore, when I find such a book blanketed within a similar environment, I’m at home. Two titles come immediately to mind: Robert Benchley’s “Jaws” (fiction), and Frank Mundus’ “Fifty Years a Hooker” (nonfiction). Although the authors’ stories are quite different, both in terms of form and format, they are, ironically, very much the same. Sheer adventure is key to the two tales. And along comes Tom Gahan’s “Harmony Bay.” Gahan’s treatment and unfolding of adventure is imbued with the love of community while at the same time backdropped by an underlying motif, an undercurrent of little-known historical and fascinating events concerning American history as it pertains to the Revolutionary War. Therefore, if you’re a history buff, you’ll thoroughly enjoy the read on that level, too. I found myself totally absorbed and quite at home in “Harmony Bay,” a delightful utopian community.
You will follow Dory McDonough (a recent widow) and her 10-year-old son, James, as they embark upon a new life. The townspeople truly welcome the two newcomers with open arms. It makes you wish there really was such a place like Harmony Bay. Well, I did say that “Harmony Bay” was an idealistic presentment. Did I not? Somewhere along the story line, you will discover that hope springs eternal and that such an ideal community could, indeed, exist. You will bear witness to Dory falling in love as young James enjoys a good and exciting new life while at the same time confronting the challenges of adolescence; namely, responsibilities. Hence, this is a book not only for adults but for youngsters as well. A perfect fit.
“Harmony Bay” is an enchanting story. Tom Gahan’s first novel is positively a winner, destined to become an award winner—and certainly deserving of five stars!
Robert Banfelder - 5 Star Reivew
Christmas Pieces - REVIEWS - 5 Stars
Christmas Pieces is a collection of 24 tales that warm the heart—think Advent. The stories are set in a time of what feels like yesteryear and brings true holiday warmth and cheer. I chose two stories to review, one located in Pittsburgh and the other within the Everglades of Florida, both stories were around 2000 words.
Pittsburgh: A Christmas tale set in post-war Pittsburgh, offering a vivid portrayal of blue-collar life. Hank, a railroad worker, navigates the challenges of frugality, tradition, and love, reflecting on simpler times with his wife Edith. Their modest life takes a surprise turn when an unexpected inheritance changes everything, just as their grown children return for Christmas. This story beautifully captures the spirit of family, resilience, and the warmth of unexpected blessings. With rich descriptions and relatable characters, it paints a nostalgic picture of a working-class holiday. A touching, feel-good read.
Everglades: Through the life of Nokosi, a descendant of Seminole warriors, the story spans from the Christmas Day Battle of Okeechobee in 1837 to the 20th-century cultural shifts, where Christianity mingled with Seminole traditions. Nokosi's journey from his ancestral roots to his baptism as Joseph, a talented woodcarver, reflects the convergence of these two worlds. The final scene, where Joseph's life-sized Nativity carvings are covered in a rare Florida snowfall, feels like a divine message, a symbol of harmony between the old and the new.
This book is a delightful read. You can easily pick it up and enjoy a full story in just a few pages, or settle in and read several at once. Either way, you'll feel that heartwarming sense of Christmas spirit. It's perfect for reading any time of year, or you can tuck it away with your holiday decorations and make it a cherished part of your yearly traditions.
Written by Karen at Mobius 5 Stars