The Black Squall

Rating:
Summary: I Know I'm biased
Review: I just finished reading this book, having read on the internet that it was purported to suggestively refer to my favorite character, Travis McGee. Unfortunately, this author suffers in comparison to John D. MacDonald. This author uses most of the "tricks of the trade" of many contemporary authors: (1) overuse of simile; (2) injudicious use of adjectives; (3) brand-name dropping; (4) fascination with money, for its own sake. Also, the ending was very "selfish," again indicative of a contemporary author. John D wrote in an economy of style that few have equaled. He made cogent observations of the culture of his time, at the time it was happening, not just retrospectively.I felt fulfilled after finishing a Travis McGee novel. This book left me still hungry.

Rating:
Summary: A happy ending
Review: It is so refreshing to read a book about women who cope with life's raw challenges, and still have a happy ending where the good people prevail. I especially like the fact that these characters grew during the book, like real people. There are no gimmicks here, just really good storytelling.

Rating:
Summary: 4 Gold Stars for The Black Squall
Review: Lori Stone's work is a lot of fun. Sure, I have some editorial quibbles about it, and it's not exactly Tolstoy, but it's a great effort to keep alive the tradition of a very famous adventurer. I think any fan of McGee and Meyer would enjoy this book. I'm looking forward to Ms. Stone's next publication!