84Mags

I rarely comment on poetry, feeling it isn’t my place, but these three works perfectly built on one another and expressed precisely and eloquently my heavy heart. Defiance is particularly powerful and deeply resonating. Earlier today I had someone stop to ask me about a sticker on my vehicle from a resistance organization, so I know there is hope and the battles will go on.

This gently blurs the lines between real life and fiction just enough that we can all see ourselves in Kenny and have experienced the heartbreak of knowing a Peggy. It’s a touching glimpse into family dynamics when a loved one is failing and near life’s end. For those of us who’ve lost a mother or maternal figure, this story acknowledges and honors the depth of that pain. It’s a lovely tribute.

The fates seem to have greatness in store for Tad and place him into the savvy hands of others to help keep him safe. Mirakel’s instincts got them away from the blast and warmly drying out while secretly awaiting Counsellor Brokerman. Those same fates have now brought Tad together with Marica! Once Counsellor Brokerman arrives an important trio will be formed.

I can merely echo the sentiments so eloquently expressed before mine; this final chapter was as immensely satisfying on all levels as each chapter before it. The spiritual bonding of Micco and Chase felt harmonious, sensual, and permanent; they will live within the other now and always. While the outcome of the sanctuary with Micco in charge and Chase by his side isn’t so much a surprise as a confirmation, it was breathtaking to have Kane return. Like others, I had to seek out a few Kleenex’s before continuing. It feels like not nearly enough to express gratitude for an outstanding story that has such depth and layers, however my humble appreciation is heartfelt! Thank you, and know that these characters will live on within many of us.

I have never been more relieved and satisfied with being totally, completely wrong about a character than I am about Burke. When you go back to read descriptions of Burke's emotions or actions, they are that of an animal or predator. He lives a life that is congruous with his two wolves. With this chapter's revelations one sees that when Burke chose to avenge Micco's mother and sister, and later his coming to an inner peace with that darker side, he is able to live and feed the good wolf while using the other wolf to hunt out the evilness in others. Burke must be able to acknowledge that darker wolf in order to confront and deal with the vicious, evilness that was Micco's father and Martina, as well as recognize those like Sam who might be swayed but come back to rightness. Calhoun and Burke are good at their jobs for a reason. Micco and Chase have a profound happiness and sense of rightness most of us hope for in a life partner, that sense of being at home and grounded just by being with the other. They are completely in tune, and it is nice to see Chase anticipating Micco's needs. It's wonderful to have both so content! The sanctuary will be fine under their watchful care.

Oh my golly, what an exceptional chapter! I am relieved to be wrong about Burke, at least in my concerns about his involvement with Martina and Sam’s murder. I agree with Micco’s thoughts while they were all sheltering; there is more to be said and learned. We now know the sad and gruesome details of that fateful night. I believe Burke can give Micco the same closure with details of his past, the fire, etc. There is a deeper link. Long Ears is not only real, but proof of the legend. Micco’s ability to celebrate the beauty of goodness, peace, love, and joy, as well as center himself while connecting his past and present, changed both Long Ears and himself. Micco is ready to learn the details of his youth. He is ready to be the medicine man Billie always knew was within Micco. He has his soulmate by his side. As for Martina, she deserves whatever the fates had in store for her.

Chapter 3, interaction between Micco and Martina as she supposedly comforts Micco after Sam’s murder: “We share a long stare before she leans close once more under the pretense of another hug and whispers in my ear, “We’re here, Michael. Don’t worry. Matthew and I are here for you.” It’s a curious thing to say. I can tell Burke thinks so too. He’s standing several feet away but has the hearing of a cat. His brow furrows at her words. My unease ratchets up a notch.” I don’t know whether that means they are working together or Burke is working to keep Micco safe at all costs and so pretending to work with Martina. In this chapter, Burke rather coldly reminded Micco that Martina isn’t tribe. Burke is strongly linked to the tribe.

I do not trust Burke. Micco trusts him and I’m in the minority for this opinion, but Burke’s history of always being there at Micco’s most traumatic times is suspect. Is Burke Micco’s guardian/savior or the cause behind his traumas? The below passages: Martina: “I know my rights,” she says quietly, darting a glance at Burke. ““I have a friend in the business.” To this, Burke says nothing. His expression remains stony. He tracks her every move with heavily lidded eyes.” Micco: “I shake my head, then look to Burke. I bet he knows the answer to this question, but he’s clearly decided not to play her game. Even injured, on the floor and slumped against the concrete wall, he looks coiled and tense. Livid and dangerous. Martina follows my gaze, then looks quickly away.” It appears Long Ears or something presenting itself as the mythical monster really is lurking about. How this creature is linked to Sam’s death might also tell us the connection to Micco’s past, the fire, the killings of his mom and sister, and all that is happening now.

What an exciting and extremely well done chapter! While we now understand the motive behind Martina’s duplicity, we still don’t have Sam’s killer. If it’s Martina, her whereabouts are unknown. There is a chance she’s at the refuse. Micco running off alone into the refuse while the storm swirled around him was not the safest idea. There are other pieces missing. Who or what is behind the feelings of anger, hate, and hunger Micco experienced when he was in the enclosure after discovering Sam? Later, Whisper exhibited strange behaviors and Micco felt a more intense sense of those emotions (Ch 10). Could whatever Long Ears is be involved? I believe there is a connection between all that is happening now and the murders of Micco’s mom and sister. The tension continues to mount!

When a particularly engaging story comes to an end, I often find myself at a loss for what to say. It hits me how hard it is to be an extraordinary writer when I’m humbled to find the right words to comment. It doesn’t feel nearly enough to merely express gratitude and satisfaction. I will start with the middle. You gave us all not just a glimpse, but a story within the story, when we learned that Reid and Billy will most assuredly have a life together. The men have not only the blessing of Billy’s Pa, but also Reid’s unwavering commitment to the love he can now admit to feeling. They have friends, family, community support, and the land to spread out and be together. If you never write of them again, it is more than enough to dream and imagine with. Where we are leaving Jubal and Lucas couldn’t be in a more ideal place. The new foal made me tear up a bit and think of your beloved Sky. Just as we rode along with these magnificent men, as readers we also traveled with you. We depart from Lucas and Jubal knowing they will take care of each other, their land, animals, the wilding herd, friends, and neighbors. They will love strong.

I have been rereading the chapters and comments. Last chapter (17) @Aiden commented with quotes from Chapter 7. Take a look; the passage quoted directly relates to whatever it was that Danny saw. And then for Chapter 16 @Summerabbacat commented and I think we all missed it. I know I did, until today!

Martina! Dang it!! What wasn’t revealed is why. Micco saying that there was a limited cast of characters who were at the refuse that night is true. However we still don’t know who killed Sam and the reason behind Martina’s plot to release the animals and ultimately close the refuse. Martina’s husband is dead so it is believed that she no longer has standing within the tribe. Is someone with influence in the tribal hierarchy involved or is Martina trying to adversely impact the tribe? Micco is still in danger. His life has been irreparably impacted. While reading the events of the last chapter, I wished Billie was available. It was a relief to have him materialize in the midst of the raging storm. He brings a needed clarity and is good for everyone, especially right now for Danny.

Oh my gosh, YES! Your last sentence is an especially lovely and well articulated thought.

On a completely different thought, as I sit here under a blanket in sub zero Midwest temps, I really enjoy the depth of your knowledge for life in the old west. The details are well laced throughout the chapters and give the reader a true sense of this time. I live not far from a historical location with period cabins on the site and can say your descriptions are precise, verbal illustrations allowing readers depictions of a bygone era.

There is a feeling of anticipation and transition throughout this double header chapter! Jubal and Lucas moved into that wonderful part of a new relationship where they are open with their thoughts and actions. Their emotions no longer frighten them and a contented playfulness developed. Jubal and Lucas know they are on solid ground with the one they love. Buying the land is the perfect next step for Jubal and having others interested plus increasing prices was just the push he needed. Reid gave us many examples of what a good man he truly is. Hightailing it to the farm to make sure Jubal had a chance at the land, stepping back from his feelings for Lucas without bitterness, and his desire to have a strong friendship with Jubal and Lucas are just a few examples. It is no secret we all want (expect?) Reid to have his own story with Billy being the star love interest. There is a lot to build from but much to consider since Billy’s dad is Reid’s boss. Now that Reid is purchasing his own adjoining plot the men will have plenty of time to fully develop their friendships. It seems fitting that some of the bounty money is used to get the man started. Good coming from evil. A fresh start. A bright future.