Ray Summers and Bill Gateway found it hard to believe it was going to be 50 years since the end of World War II. They had become lifelong friends on a beach in the Philippines during that turbulent time. Even though they lived on opposite sides of the country, the distance didn’t keep them from staying in touch and watching each other’s families grow. A reunion with their WWII military unit would be a great opportunity to get old comrades together to celebrate and remember a time when they were all part of history. They hoped all their planning would culminate in a reunion to remember. Little did they realize this reunion would involve a change in plans so drastic it would put all of them in harm’s way one more time. It would take one of their highly decorated, military sons to help bring them all home safely and keep several countries from going to war. This is an adventure story whose pages are interwoven with bravery, treachery, and political intrigue.
Book Bubbles from The Reunion
Just another holiday? Time off from school and work so the family can get together to grill burgers and dogs, enjoy a picnic outside, have a beer with family. Or is it the unofficial start of summer? none of these! Memorial Day is the holiday when we remember and pay tribute to those who didn't come home; those who made the ultimate sacrifice so that we're free to do all those other things and more. My father like many other of his generation that served didn't speak much about his experiences, but always said the real heroes are the ones who didn't return. He's not the only vet I've heard this from. Actually, any vet who ever saw combat. Remember those who didn't return. Honor them! They sacrificed everything for us. https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
The answer to that question is pretty simple. I love to tell stories and have been doing so since middle school. I never kidded myself that I might write a best seller, that would be a bonus. I do it simply for the enjoyment of watching others immersing themselves in my fantasy world. This was my first book and was a little wordy. After writing the second book and working with professional editors for the first time I revisited this manuscript and dropped 60,000 plus words from the second edition. It improved how this book read tremendously. I feel my second book was a big improvement and the third was by far my best. I found my retirement job and am having the time of my life. Thanks Mom and Dad for making me rewrite all those school papers... https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
I may have used this segment in a previous book bubble, but it's appropriate for this one as well. It's based on a story my father told our family one evening when he was in his cups. Those were the only times he mentioned his experiences from WW II, and they didn't happen often. Recently the group that I meet for lunch one of the topics has been violence in our current world. One of those friends does not watch movies, read books, or pursue other forms of entertainment where violence plays a major part. My wife lives her life very much the same way. This friend's occupation is one where exposure to violence is all too common. Having been involved in law enforcement for 23 plus years I can understand that. Each of us deals with that exposure in a different way. One of the reasons I love comedies, but I'm also an adrenalin junkie so thrillers, mysteries, and action/adventures are also on the plate. The violence is always there; it's part of nature. But there's no reason we can't try to make this world a better place.
Many people who speak to me about my writing often ask where I get my characters from. I joke with some of my close friends that I'm always taking notes. I am. I'm a watcher of human nature, behavior and reactions. Always quietly in the background, trying not to influence a situation so I can see how people react. Becky is one of my favorite characters in my books. She is based on a number of strong women who have influenced me over my many years. All beautiful in their own way, adventurous, loving, and a great sense of humor. This being my first book she is introduced and given her backstory. She is caught up in the drama and comes across as a bit of airhead at times. She is not. In book 2 she takes the backseat to some new characters but shows her strength as a solid and true friend. In book three she is back in the forefront of the story showing her strength, leadership and character. In book 4, a prequel to be published soon, she is the romantic foil and shows her true colors as a rebel. All these qualities came from these wonderful women who I modeled Becky after. Meant as a compliment to all whom I modeled her after I have to say it was fun to mush all these qualities together and see what came out the other end.
This is a nightmare sequence from my first book foreshadowing book four, which is currently in editing. A prequel to the other three books of the series currently published, it should answer question you may have about some of the characters. Each book is a stand-alone story that can be enjoyed without having read any of the others, but they are connected and relate the Summers family history. Read and enjoy them all. Book four, 'The Conflict', should be published by the end of 2025. You can find all the books at https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/, Amazon, or your favorite online book retailors. Enjoy the adventure.
Each of us has traditions that we follow because of what has happened in our lives. Those traditions may be different because of our backgrounds, but they are important to us just the same. These traditions may be attached to holidays or other dates on the calendar that mean something to us. They are sometimes attached to people in our lives who are important to us. It's important that we honor our traditions and celebrate our loved ones and the life we share. Happy Valetines Day!!! https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
I've mentioned before that I meet weekly with friends from high school and we have lunch, reminisce, debate, and tell lies about the good ol' days. Several weeks ago, the conversation became political and as you might expect in this day and age the debate became a bit feisty. No issues, we parted the good friends that we are, agreeing to respect each other's opinions no matter which side of the political equation we found ourselves on. One of the core ideals of our society is our freedom to believe in different approaches to solve the problems that face us all. We still need to respect others and their opinions and treat them with the grace we would expect them to treat us with. That's as political as I get. Check out the book series and enjoy the adventure. https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
Every Friday I have lunch with a group of friends from high school and occasionally the topic of conversation is what our parents did in World War II. In most cases there was little shared by those parents because they didn't talk about their experiences in the war. It wasn't our place to ask, so being good Baby Boomers, we didn't pursue their history. Occasionally a story would squeak out and we share them with our little lunch group. We couldn't be prouder and more appreciative of the sacrifices our parents made both in service of our country and at home. So many people say that today's generations don't understand. My children are Gen X or Millennials and have served as well. They get it and serve proudly making similar sacrifices. Thanks to all who serve or have served their community and country. https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
This is my first 'Book Bubble' of the New Year and I can't tell you how happy I am to be doing this. I have always enjoyed telling stories and writing, though I didn't always take time to do it. Life seemed to get in the way. Now that I'm on the other end of that life I'm taking the time to get back to storytelling. Enjoy my first book, 'The Reunion', and please take time to read my second book, 'The Superintendent', published by Lulu, and my third book, 'The Retirement', published by Bublish. Wishing all of my family, friends and readers a very Happy New Year. https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
I come from a generation where 'Peace and Love" came in direct conflict with the war in Vietnam. We were a generation split between service of country and service of conscience. We may not have been the "Greatest Generation", but we made a difference no matter which side we were on. https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
It has been my experience that anything can be accomplished when you work as a team. This experience goes all the way back to my days at summer camp when we worked together on canoe trips in the Canadian backwoods. Progress, adventure, fun, and sometimes even survival depended on everyone on the trip working together. This fact carried on through to football, swimming, police work, and finally my work in education. Teamwork is essential to success! Order this book and others by Jeff Thrall at: https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
I have become the family historian of sorts. Part of this comes from being a writer I guess and wanting to keep passing on the stories from the Greatest Generation to the generations to follow. Like the officer in this book both my father and father-in-law had bibles they took with them while serving in World War II. I can't say what these books meant to them during this horrible time in history, but I can tell you they were both men of strong faith. So are my friends and family who fought in Vietnam and is my son who fought in Iraq and Afghanistan. You can say what you want, but this faith had to be some comfort for the brave men and women who served in any conflict. Thank you for your service. https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
Unlike when we were children news today can be broadcast as it happens. Not just voice, but also video. News has come a long way since the news reels of World War II and Korea. Vietnam brought us the killing and gore in color but there was still time to edit the video. Today's news can come instantaneously in color and without edits. I'm not sure it's an improvement, but it has changed the way we look at the world. For all books by Jeff Thrall go to: https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
It happens when someone holds power over another person. it can be used as a tool for a job or a weapon for a bully. Who's who in this scenario? https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
Unfortunately, this is something we see all too often in the news. Innocents being displaced and forced to suffer because of an armed conflict. It's always the innocents that get caught in the middle whether the conflict is justified or not. People forced to leave their homes because of war, their worlds turned upside down, it never seems to change. Sadly, these battlefields don't change either. How do we break the cycle? https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
When you write and tell stories it helps to be well read yourself. There are times in my life when I haven't done much reading but have been doing more than my share of late. I've even managed to go back and reread some books for my past. It's amazing wat I missed the first time through. I encourage you all to read, the movie doesn't give you the same experience. https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
In a "Man's World" women have often been underestimated, insulted, and ignored when in reality they are just as capable as their male counterparts. Having grown up in the 1960's and 1970's, the "Women's Lib Era," I'd like to think I'm more open minded about this topic, but know I've fallen into to that time honored trap of arrogance regarding women in certain fields of endeavor. Through experience and sometimes having the back of my head slapped I've learned those lessons the hard way. I still try to be the gentleman and hold the door open for them. After all, they've earned it.
In my experience so many combat vets from all wars suffer without complaint. Their visible wounds are obvious, but the invisible wounds lie hidden under the surface and in many cases never come to light. I've seen this with family members and friends, and each handles those wounds in their own way. They don't speak about their experiences in combat, keeping it all to themselves. They each take pride in their service, and we should thank all vets for their honor, courage, and sacrifice. Happy New Year!!!!! www.jeffreythrallbooks.com
It's an old saying but one with a lot of truth behind it. As I grew up, I found I got better at something the more I worked at it whether it be a musical instrument, a sport, academics, or work-related tools. One may have some natural abilities, but practice will always improve one's skills in any endeavor worth doing. So, practice, practice, practice. www.jeffreythrallbooks.com
They all answered the call no matter what generation they hail from. No matter what branch of the military they served in we as a people are better for that service. Heros all!!!! Thank you for your service.... www.jeffreythrallbooks.com
I get very sentimental this time of year because my father's birthday was yesterday. He served his country during World War II like so many men and women did. He served in this theater of the war and on the battlefields described in this novel of fiction. Many of the memories aired in the novel are not made-up but are ones that were related to me by someone who was there. I can only imagine a generation that had to deal with the Great Depression followed by a war of this magnitude and cruelty. They really were the 'Greatest Generation!'
Ah, we all want guarantees. Great for when you're buying a car or a household appliance. Tougher when you're dealing with people. We need to learn patience and not be in a rush to do something when including others.
In today's world where violence seems to appear in so many third countries as a solution to local problems and differences, children far too often pay the price for society's ills. I'd like to say this isn't true, but then I turn on the news and this is exactly what I see. May we find a peaceful way in the future to resolve these differences? "The Reunion" now in hardcover. Go to www.jeffreythrallbooks.com for the entire series.
I have a few years on many people, but I remember when I was young that we felt safe traveling pretty much anywhere in the world. There has always been danger out there, but I seem to remember it being more controlled. Violence seems to be the way to change things quickly regarding something or someone we don't like and now no country is immune to the scars it creates. While this is a work of fiction so much of it is based on research of actual events. It's scary.... 'The Reunion' is now available in hardcover at www.jeffreythrallbooks.com, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and other book sellers.
If it works once as a strategy, it will probably work again. You tweak it here and there and you should be good to go. Repetition isn't always good, but you also don't have to reinvent the wheel each time either. Plan it out ahead of time and know your history, you'll get it done. Go to jeffreythrallbooks.com or to https://www.amazon.com/author/jeffreythrall. If you've bought either book leave a review either way on the platform you purchased it from. Thanks
Things aren't always what they seem. Politics, ambition, and rivalry can muddy the waters blurring the lines between friend and foe. As much action can happen behind the scenes as takes place with straight out conflict. Visit jeffreythrallbooks.com, Amazon, Barnes and Noble or other online vender for a copy; leave a review on the platform you order from.
For those of us who have had stressful jobs we know the need to occasionally let our hair down and relax. (Still trying to figure out how that works for me.) You can't always be serious, it's not healthy. You shouldn't get so out of control you get in trouble when you get caught. Then sometimes it might be worth it.
We take for granted the freedoms, safety, and security we enjoy. Seldom do we think about those in the armed forces or first responders who work through the holidays while we enjoy them in peace. Remember a soldier, sailor, airman, marine, policeman, fireman, paramedic, and others who give up time with their families to provide that peace this time of year. Take a minute to thank them for their service and sacrifice. Let them know they are appreciated.
Far too often in life we make a judgement based on appearance. This can be a mistake when dealing with people. I've always considered myself open minded, but the older I get the more I recognize the mistakes I've made over the years. Many were based on appearance. Someone's age, how they're dressed, financial situation, ethnic origin, and who knows how many other excuses. Take your time when evaluating someone else. Don't jump to the first conclusion you see. More information is better than not enough.
Terrorists, spies, traitors and all the stuff needed to make a suspenseful adventure thriller. Dangerous men, beautiful women, and villains galore. You know who the good guy is, or do you? Kidnapped vets, a violent attempt to overthrow of the rightful government of a foreign country, and the rescue. An interesting reunion of old acquaintances.
So many who served in World War II have been silent about their experiences. Over the years I got snippets of information from my father regarding what he lived through. These usually slipped out when he was at a party and had enough to drink to loosen his tongue and share the horrors he witnessed. All the stories told by Ray Summers and Bill Gateway in the book are based on those quiet snippets of information that snuck out when the family least expected it. I find those who served in combat in any of our wars to be the same way. They may not talk about it, but they're proud of their service. I know my father was.
PTSD, shell shock, battle fatigue and who knows how many other names. The shock of war leaves its mark on those who fight. Some are more affected than others, but we all need to be sensitive to it with all vets. The second version of 'The Reunion' made it to Amazon books yesterday. Coming to other book platforms soon, within days. Currently only in e-book and paperback format, hardcover and audiobook formats to follow. "The Retirement', the next story, is currently being edited. Hopefully ready for publishing by the first of the year.
With all the headlines about school violence today we've come accustomed to scenes like this. Folks my age look at this and say back in the day this would never happen. When I was in high school back in the late 1960's I saw a drunk high school student take a swing at one of his teachers. He never landed the blow, the teacher gracefully dodging the swing and subduing the student. Everything was quickly and quietly handled. Talking to the teacher later he explained that he was a veteran and saw heavy combat in World War Two. He said it was all he could do not to overact to the young man's attempted assault. Instinct and training told him to fight back. Looking at this scene in the book you have a man who is an educator and a trained Navy SEAL. How does he react? What's appropriate? What's over reaction?
The Retirement - Coming the summer of 2023.
Jon Summers is missing! Retired and doing animal research in the Canadian north woods, he is attacked by hired killers. At the same time back home, family members and some old friends are kidnapped, being held hostage at the family cabin. Included are several high-ranking politicians. The goal, break of an old enemy out of prison. Shock waves course through the law enforcement and intelligence communities as information sources and communications are compromised. Rescue attempts fail. Spies and conspirators seem to lurk everywhere. Traditional tactics and methods for freeing the hostages are rendered useless, frustrating authorities.
Unbeknownst to the kidnappers a shadowy figure shrouded by fog lurks in the forest, stalking them. Spirits of the forest are angered and ghosts from the past resurrected. Joined by the Summers family and an interesting assortment of mysterious characters, they unite to face this clever and ruthless enemy. With hostages in jeopardy and time running out they must act. How will they foil the kidnappers plan? Will they be able to free the hostages before they are sacrificed?
Book Bubbles from The Retirement
As we approach Memorial Day I think about a recent visit to Gettysburg, PA and the Civil War battlefield there. There was a lot of talk of ghosts during the tour. I think you'll find every battlefield from any war has its share of ghost there. Whether they're apparitions, colored lights, a breeze, or the figment of someone's memory they have been documented for as long as there have been battles. When my father was dying from cancer, in his last days he was calling out names the family didn't know. They were the names of men who served with him in the Pacific during World War II. Ghosts or not, they shared a bond that couldn't be broken. https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
Very seldom will I interject politics into my work as an author. Everyone is entitled to their political opinion, that's a basic right our country was founded on. I have a problem when politics affects our children and their education. This excerpt mirrors an event from my teenage years that affected me in so many ways. This week the Rochester City School Board had to make a decision on trips for three of their high schools not to send kids to Canada for two weeks in the Canadian wilderness in an outward-bound style experience. They canceled the trips because of the current political stance on immigration and could not guarantee all their students would be allowed back into the US. The district is obviously looking out for the safety of their students. I understand both sides. I spent 25 years going to where they were headed and had many experiences like this excerpt. I also worked for school districts an equal number of years the last 13 in upper-level district administration. Neither side has any control over the real problem. The only losers here are the kids. Politics suck!!! https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
My last several Book Bubbles have had to do with characters. Sandy Monroe, a professional news journalist, appears in book 1 and book 3. Like many of my characters she is a mismatch of personalities to come up with the person on the paper/screen. One of my friends from the famous Friday lunch group is part of that mismatch. Book 2 also has its share of media news types in it and I again used my friend to help shape those characters You would think that with my background in law enforcement why would I have such a close friend in TV news. My perspective, we all have our jobs to do and as long as no one's getting hurt... A good reporter asks questions much like a good policeman. Both looking for information, one to solve a crime and one looking for a story. Hopefully, both looking for facts, but we all know that's not always the case. Subtle enough that when they're done you may not know what information you've really given them.
Good character interaction is important to a story. Characters have to gel both as protagonists and antagonists. In this section Becky and Ellison are the good guys and Kingston the bad guy. Each from different worlds and backgrounds. Jon, the main protagonist of the book is mentioned very briefly, just ignore him for this. The scene is the apprehension of Kingston, former military from old east coast money, traitor, and conspiracy mastermind. He is up against Ellison, a career marine, and Becky a civilian doctor and army brat. This is an interesting interaction bringing these diverse characters together. This scene shows the strengths of each as well as some weaknesses and how they serve each character. I wonder how it ends?
Flashbacks can be fun to write, especially in a series where you can go into detail in one book and hint back in another. This scene in book three refers back to book two, 'The Superintendent', published by Lulu. All three of my published works fall into the 'military thriller category. Book two could also be considered a murder mystery. As I wrote each book, I could feel myself becoming more confident in my story telling ability. Each story was better than the one before and all are connected, although each can stand alone. Book four is currently in editing hopefully to be released by the end of 2025 and books five and six are in the creation process. All three published works can be found at: https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/, Amazon, or the online book retailor of your choice.
I don't write 'True Romance'. I write 'Action Thrillers' so this excerpt is about as romantic as I get. Flowers are a big seller this time of year as we express how much we care for those closest to us. A tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation and has become attached to February 14th as a default. Often called a "Hallmark Holiday', this day allows us to celebrate those we love. We should do that every day, but if setting one day a year helps us do that then so be it. Everyone have a wonderful Valentines Day!!! https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
Varying versions of the truth about any one news item circulate all over social media and the internet these days making it tough for one to determine what is fact and what is fiction. Welcome to the modern age of instant news from an untold number of platforms. It does make for great mysteries and even a good thriller or two (or three). Enjoy the book series. https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
I love to tell stories and there's nothing better than an action/suspense thriller. I've managed quite a bit of adventure in my own life but prefer to write fiction because I can exaggerate and not be called a liar. Some storylines are based on my experience, but not all. I do base some storylines on experiences of friends and even history at times. And I do enjoy a good action-adventure movie. The bottom line is its all fiction. Enjoy the story and the adventure. https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
There are many ways to tell a story. Some are passed down from generation to generation verbally. Others are passed on by song or music. I'm a big fan of 'Peter and the Wolf.' I tell stories using imagination and putting words on 'paper.' 'The Retirement' is my third book in the Jon Summers series. Please take a few minutes to enjoy it. My first two books, 'The Reunion' and 'The Superintendent' are also available on Amazon and my website. During this new year, please take the time to relax and enjoy a good adventure. Happy New Year to all!!! https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
In my years I've discovered that life is too short to hold a grudge. Don't lose sight of what is most important. https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
It's the time of year when we all begin to think of the supernatural, the occult, ghosts, and monsters. We dress up in costume and celebrate All Hollows Eve. A fun time of year for kids and the young at heart. It is also an extremely spiritual time of year. Order this book and others by Jeff Thrall at: https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
Some people believe in ghosts while others don't. Each person has the right to believe in what they want, and some feel they came prove they existence of ghosts while others feel nothing will convince them. It's in the mind of each of us. Does believing make us crazy? Your call. You tell me. https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
A casino, action, intrigue, suspense, beautiful women. Sounds like a good thriller. I don't consider myself a writer on the level of Ian Fleming, but I like to think I can tell a good story. Action, adventure, heroes, villains, and even a little bit of a ghost story. All books by Jeff Thrall can be found at: https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
Not the kind mentioned before, but the kind from nightmares. Want to know more? You'll have to read the book... https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
We all have them. People who have affected our lives and destinies who are no longer with us. The people who shaped our personalities and made a difference in our lives. Remember them. https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
Every story needs characters. I don't mean a hero, villain or love interest. I mean that oddball, unforgettable character you'll never forget. The one that helps to enable or foil the other characters in the story. They may add comic relief or a tear when needed. They are the most fun to develop and write. https://www.jeffreythrallbooks.com/
They are powerful and can shape public opinion, national policies, and history. We all have the perception that we are guaranteed rights, freedoms, and liberty. We cannot forget that we also have responsibilities that must go along with those three things. We need to always act with honor and treat all people with the dignity and respect they are do. Remember, perceptions work both ways.
As happens so often in families our children model their parents when they grow up and go out into the world. If a life of service to others is modeled, children so often follow that example. It makes parents proud and drives us crazy at the same time. Someday they will understand the question, "I don't understand how I ever survived." or why we live vicariously through their actions. Their mother just wonders which one of us is crazier!!! www.jeffreythrallbooks.com
I'm one of those people who works best with some type of noise in the background. It could be music, a newscast, talk radio, or even a movie I've seen before. It's just there filling in some need in my mind to have something else there. I can't explain it, but I know I'm not alone in that. The background noise stops and it's like someone threw something at you to get your attention. www.jeffreythrallbooks.com
Thank you to all who served so we can live free. www.jeffreythrallbooks.com
It comes in many forms and doesn't have to be connected with organized religion. Many people are spiritual and believe in something higher and purer than what we deal with in life on a daily basis. We just have to decide if it's just a cloud passing over or the spirits deciding to teach us a lesson.
In this day of instant news, it seems at times that we are watching performances and not current events. Everyone seems to be looking for their fifteen minutes of fame and we all fall into the trap of letting them. It seems to be human nature to perform for the camera. It also seems at times that there is a serious lack of responsible journalism. I have friends in both the worlds of first responders and journalism, and they are consummate professionals. It seems that the network news shows have discovered how they can influence us by putting on a show or sensationalize what they show us. Then there are those who have become expert at manipulating the media. I miss the good old days.
When times are hard and frustrating remembering pleasant thing from the past can brighten the mood. It can be a happy exchange between friends, a joyful event, or something as simple as flowers. The saying goes that 'hope springs eternal.' A bouquet of flowers can mean hope in this case if you know what to look for. Then again, the flower delivery man might be dangerous.
A tourist location, lots of people, who would suspect. Simple as ordering dessert. What information can she garner from this scene. Who would suspect that a diner would be a meeting place for spies. After you read the book leave a review on the platform you purchase it from. Thanks, www.jeffreythrallbooks.com
What's the line that separates a hero from a villain? Interesting thought as you look at this excerpt. Who's who. Tough to tell at this point of the story. Maybe they're both the bad guy, you'll have to read the book to find out. www.jeffreythrallbooks.com
So many of us are quick to rush to judgement about issues we don't have all the facts about. Take your time and listen, learn, and gather all the facts before passing judgement on a person or situation. find all my books at: www.jeffreythrallbooks.com.
When something goes wrong there are always different ways to handle the situation. Some you can control and others you can't. I've found in my years that if you keep a cool head and take a moment to evaluate your situation you are better able to handle and control it. Trust your instincts.
A beautiful but dangerous wilderness filled with wild creatures and death. What to do? The book hit the online outlets yesterday. Time to find out. Go to the platform of your choice for paperback or e-book formats and enjoy the story.
The opening paragraphs to book #3 in the Summers series of action/adventures about Jon Summers. Approved for publication today and E-book and paperback formats should be available at online retailors by Thursday, August 3, 2023. Come and enjoy the ride.
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