Anton_Cloche

Interesting last two chapters. With info on the 'camp' in this one, Mac and Ike were lucky they didn't run across the bears when they escaped. As for the younger boys, they'll recover faster when reunited with Mac and Ike. As for the bastards holding and abusing the boys, Mother Nature stepped in with Mama Bear to take the garbage out. Mac and Ike were orphaned when their parents were killed in a car accident, hopefully Carleton will discover insurance and other funds meant for the brothers. At 14 and 13, they still require adult supervision, but if they had no problems with their parents before the accident, Mac and Ike may want to keep family name to honor their parents (while still living with Carleton and his 'sons). In which case Carleton has some choices: 1. Adopt Mac and Ike (if they want that) and let them keep their family name; 2. Let the boys add 'Jeffries' to family name for a hyphenated name (eg Doe-Jeffries); 3. If Mac and Ike are financially 'set', Carleton can be their 'Legal Guardian' and they can be his 'Wards' (holy legal terms Batman. ).

How anyone can harm a child, let alone abuse these boys, for as long as they suffered. Is beyond comprehension. Somehow they found the last bit of strength to reach Salvation's gate. Hopefully the doctors will be able to heal and save them, with God's help, and Michael's intercession as their Guardian Angel watching over them Carleton was right to be scared at the look he saw on Mo's face. Whoever abused these boys had better hope the police find them before Mo does. There is no emoji that accurately describes how I felt when I read this (at zero dark 30), knowing this happens in real life.but this image instantly came to mind...

Awww (used my limit on words in last chapter comments )

Michael's name should help give Carleton some small relief from the guilt he has carried for so long. R.I.P. Michael. Michael's verified story could give Carleton the legal (moral and other ammunition) he needs to go after those people who don't deserve to be called Michael's 'parents'. And while there is a statute of limitations in NY for charges of 'Child Abandonment', if it leads to the death or murder of a child, they can be charged as an 'Accessory after the fact'. (while their 'defense' would argue that wasn't their intent, 'unintended consequences leading to death' overrules that). There is no statute of limitations on murder, which is why there are so many 'cold case' files. As for the new arrivals, surprised that Alex and his Dad didn't consider consequences. As for lack of security gates at entrance to property (next to where new office will be), Mo needs to not be 'Slo-Mo' but more proactive. Given his initial assessment of property vis-a-vis risks, that should have been priority. At least Jon is protected.

Another good and interesting chapter. It seems the time the guys spend at the island cabin, the more insight we gain into the farm. Glad to see that Covid-19 has sidetracked or side-lined your writing. More than a few writers (both on GA and other sites) have expressed how the pandemic, restrictions/changes to everyday living has affected their focus, muse, desire, energy etc to write. (I was going to say 'put pen to paper, but so few use that method any more, and that's a shame. Anyway, looking forward to more news from the farm (back in the day) as we wind down 2020 (thankfully) and envision a better 2021. Or that's the hope a plan. One more thing, in Ethan's time of this story anyone old enough to remember, back then in school having to get 'shots' for measles, etc. We also had to get 'booster' shots that were required to 'top up' immunity. And in some cases 'annual' shots after that. To those who were scared, wary of the new vaccines, as Ethan might say, 'suck it up, buttercup'. Get a poke, safe lives. Stay safe, distant (Sam's row boat) apart. #WearAMask.

Anyone who can honestly say that they didn't feel their heartstrings being pulled, or the need to reach for kleenex (facial tissue) while reading this wonderful short story, check your blood pressure and heart because something ain't working. Bill, this is a great Christmas tale for 2020. It can also apply to other holidays when family & friends can't be together. Bill, Thank You, for this wonderful early Christmas Gift. With hopes & wishes yule (ooh ) have a Merry Christmas too, knowing our gift to you is thanks for your continuing stories that bring comfort and joy to many. Tony B

All's well that ends well... for now. So now it's time to check in with that other titled person, Edwin Lord Fordell, who's been requested by Sir Robert to return to Channel Islands (visit his 'best mate'?) and Scotland to help resolve some issues that have come up. It also gives Edwin a chance to visit Aunt Bea's memorial.

The old saying that "Truth is stranger than Fiction", was never more true, and never more important to be aware of than here and now, as it portends where the world may be, if the spread of CCP /Government of China disguised as 'private corporations' continues unchecked. Let's see how Wagner Group / Sir Lewis, Sebastian et al deal with this disguised intrusion into their homeland Australia. Also whether it affects Xavier and XDSI. Perhaps L&S can persuade Australian governments to enact and enforce a FIRA (Foreign Investment Review Act) to prohibit thinly disguised takeovers reporting back to?

I hope so much that someone, somehow will be able to find the name of Carleton's first 'lost son'. The "smiling boy (and sometime spectral visitor?), who threw me a kiss". Carleton deserves that before he goes to his final reward, joining this son in heaven.

Leave it to you to 'stick' your nose into poor Bob's junk. Oh wait, junks all gone. Guess there are some 'things' you don't want to touch with a 10" pole. At least Bob isn't chasing Twistan with his hands all balled up.

An interesting chapter. Israel and the Middle East always a contradiction - of cultures, religions, politics, greed, turf wars, attitudes and feelings. In other words, a powder keg waiting for a match. Throw innocent children into the mix, and it gets worse. That a diplomat (ambassador?) would prostitute his own son, because religion 'allows' (encourages) it is even more despicable. Did the 'pimp' get his just reward? Will be interesting how Carleton and company get 'Nour' into the U.S., given he is the son of a UN Middle Eastern Ambassador / diplomat and a minor. Once they get to U.S., would the boy apply for asylum? Or will Alex's Ambassador father from The Hague, and his 'Council' use diplomatic or other 'persuasion' to (1) keep Nour's father quiet and (2) have him pay to fund his former son from current age (10?) through to finishing university? $1 million seems fair. Carleton's main reason for trip to Israel (to bring back his client's son), is properly resolved, but she won't likely agree. Looking forward to more. (greedy me, I know) Tony B

Great chapter and great opportunity for Carleton to put UN and certain nations (the smiling, smug bastards I know from having worked in both govn't foreign affairs and NGO), on notice. As Jon and his 'brothers' attend university and college, they will use their knowledge and background experience to continue Carleton's work saving others. Thank you CL

Chris, allow me to offer my take on your questions. After reading the Prologue, I wrote the following: "... if Steven's father (Carleton) was adept enough at business, and set his children up in successful businesses, why didn't he: (a) set up automatic payment to keep from defaulting, (b) give his son Durable POA, (c) ensure Trust was either a Living Trust (staying in family) or a Legacy Trust (SD Reg) to be Tax-Free?" TBC?

First chapter opened well. (if some 'thing' doesn't open well, plunging in tubing can be hard). This chapter, well let's just say it was a tasty change. If the quickest way to a man's heart is through his stomach, then eating strawberries and fresh whipped cream off Justin's hot six pack and nipple is just desserts for Craig.

Interesting chapter CL, one the that touchs on some things in previous chapters that seemed a bit out of sync, and re-reading 15 and 16 confirms that, which is part of why I gave this chapter a WOW. The other reason for the WOW is because of Officer Sal Amar of the Holland Police, traveling for an undetermined stay at Carleton's Estate to assess the security needs for Carleton and his 'sons'. Fencing the property will be a start. Despite Carleton's private jet departing from the 'private' airstrip, Sal's luggage should have been checked for weapons and ammo. And not for nothing, Alex bolted up the stairs onto the jet with no airport security guard interceding?? If Alex's father wants a security assessment before Carleton addresses the UN, is there a credible threat from people Alex said his father identified (Soviet/ Russian/East Block) as persons/ mafia making money from forced street prostitution of children? As a lawyer, Carleton's first instinct would be to "follow the money", which would put a target on him. I suspect the next and coming chapters may involve danger.

Wow "...$15 per credit hour. That was a millennium ago" Well okay, but we're only 20 years into 2nd millennium. It's not like you're reminiscing about playing 'H-O-R-S-E' at recess with Abe Lincoln with REAL horses. I kid because I respect you and appreciate your wonderful writing. Tony B (not the 'other').

Amazing chapter! Carleton being asked to address the UN General Assembly about child prostitution. Finding out where some of his funding to rescue and look after his 'sons'. Finally, and most touching, having his first 'son' visit him in his dreams as Carleton slept on his plane, to give him approval to go ahead, and also a clear sign that he's okay (in heaven): "just before dawn, I was visited by the one boy who could affect me more than the others. He looked at me, smiled and nodded his head Yes." (a 'Heaven' sent hug) .

Bill, yet another well-written chapter that is like trip down Memory Lane, just from a slightly different perspective. Thank you for bringing us up-to-date on Josh and his extended family. It is a treat to read, and savour. Take Care, Stay Well. Help (vaccine) is on the way. Tony B. Ps: If memory serves me correctly, (hey, it's 20/20 and 'hindsight' may be a bit off), in 3 previous Castaway Hotel Books, your 'seasonal' chapters (Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years) were generally posted closer to the actual dates. Are you rushing to get this book completed, so you can move on to Book 5 (6 and more)? tb

Yah, puppies! But as I (and many others have discovered) the size of the dog is not proportional to the output. I've seen small dogs poop more than great Danes! So there'll be lots for everyone who wants to, to help out. The dogs will be great therapy for those boys still having problems from time to time with bad memories of past. Thanks CL.

What's that sound I hear? The arrival of a private jet from Switzerland and popping of champagne corks? Something to celebrate? What, no flies in the ointment?

Workers and agents with 'letter' Agencies receive additional 'specialized' training in order to find criminals, while safeguarding witness / victims, frequently as part of a team. Differently sanctioned 'other' organizations, employ people (often ex-military), like Zeke who likely don't have the same skill set, to see and interpret problems with survivor victims like Tyler. Which explains why Zeke hasn't clued in to obvious signs of Tyler's 'cutting' and how close he is to slipping over the edge! Zeke needs to figure this out before it's too late. As for weinerdog's comment about Tyler using the internet, it's for the same reason there's no landline or cellphone in the house. Unless Zeke has a dedicated SCIF in the house, they're at risk of being tracked. Which also explains Zeke's subcutaneous 'tracker'. Some 'chips' don't come with salsa.

Twin bundles of joy for Andrew and Ryan, as well as Beth and Nicky. Grandparents Janice and David are going to be spoiling Cameron and Elizabeth Janice (Cam & EJ? ) in no time at all. A wonderful chapter that bodes well for many more, and perhaps a second book ('Family Walks'?), when the children are growing up? (readers aren't above pleading ) Thank you!

One reason I always read the story precis is to figure out how long the author plans to keep us hooked. So I knew this 'ride' was going to be more than a few chapters when the precis mentioned Tristan catching up with Peter 6 years after he was seen probing Kat's tonsils on the subway, unaware of Tristan being on board. I think Peter will find out about karma when his bride Kat catches him schtupping the best man, ushers, and parking valet. (one can wish). He'll be lucky if Kat doesn't go all Bobbit and hand him his peter. Warming up for the next chapter as temperature here drops to 10 F / -20 C overnight. Brrrrr

Yummy. Better than Vegemite?