Just Shut Up and Drive (Book) - 5/4/2020 11:01:16 AM
Bridging the generation gap, this story takes us on a week long road trip with Wil Carter, an eighteen year old that is about to go off to college and his grandfather that raised him from the age of 5. The trip consists of a drive down memory lane filled with entertaining "snarky" banter between the two. The trip enlightens Wil to who his gramps really is as he learns things about him that he never knew. Gramps uses the trip to help Wil mature and come to grips with events that took place in his life.
"Just Shut Up and Drive" is a good, clean, fun and amazing book. The story line is excellent. It is a well-written, funny novel that grabs the reader's attention on the first page. I cannot recommend this book any higher. A definite 10 out of 10. Chynna Laird gives the reader an extremely interesting story. I literally could not put it down, read it in one sitting. This is a "must read."
Out Of Sync (Book) - 3/31/2020 7:11:58 AM
Cheyenne McCarthy has been asked to be an expert witness in a case involving Marcus Harper, who has already threatened the entire prosecution team. Marcu seems to have a personal venditti against Cheyenne. After already having killed Cheyenne's husband, it appears he wants to take even more from her, perhaps her unborn son. The back story involves the fact that Cheyenne has sensory sensitivities that can help her when investigating a case and an old Indian chief, Chief Longfellow, who has information about the case but, will only speak to Cheyenne. How do these 3 characters link together? What is there common bond? "Out of Sync" is a psychological thriller that is filled with suspense and drama. This gripping story pulls you in from page one and keeps your interest until the last page with as many twists and turns as a roller coaster. It has a well-written storyline that keeps you reading. I read it in one setting, couldn't put it down. This is my first book by Chynna T. Laird but, it most definitely will not be my last. In fact, I would love to see a Cheyenne McCarthy series (hint, hint). Highly recommended. A 5 outta 5!
Out Of Sync (Book) - 2/3/2020 3:58:44 PM
In Out of Sync readers meet Cheyenne McCarthy who is a pregnant young widow. Marcus Harper wants her dead and he plans to kill her. Will he succeed?
Masterfully written, the story moves rapidly and is engrossing. The characters are unique and interesting. The dialogue is sharp, precise and often witty. The author brings to readers an exciting story. Highly recommended.
Just Shut Up and Drive (Book) - 10/8/2018 4:07:30 PM
Come along with an elderly grandfather and his teenage grandson as they take the road trip of a lifetime. The protagonists are well developed and their relationship is special. Their banter is priceless. There is much about this book that is important. The past plays an important part in the story and as it is skillfully presented, readers begin to see why this trip is so important. Secrets are revealed and there are surprises.
I found this to be a well crafted and totally engrossing story. It is meaningful and touching. It is well worth reading. I loved reading it. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through AuthorsDen. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Dark Water (Book) - 10/1/2018 9:07:23 AM
Congratulations on your award! Enjoyed the video and description...Just got it! Will read and review when I can. Glenda
Out Of Sync (Book) - 9/7/2018 6:28:09 PM
This book caught my attention from the very first page. It keep me on the edge if my seat the whole entire time. Its well written and a great murder book. I will highly recomend this book to people. Its a short read and keep me wanting to find out what happens next. It is very emotional and in some part made me laugh as well. This is an amazing book.
Just Shut Up and Drive (Book) - 8/23/2018 7:37:40 PM
5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This was such a beautiful story.All of the characters felt very real. This story will touch your heart and make you laugh and make you cry. The relationship between gramps and wil is funny and heartbreaking but very real. Chynna Laird is great at developing her characters and presenting a plot that is real and believable. Loved every page .The plot development kept the pages turning and I finished it in one day. This was a great read. I highly recommend this touching and uplifting read.
Just Shut Up and Drive (Book) - 8/21/2018 4:06:48 PM
Wil Carter is on his last summer before going to colledge. He is about to go through it by working his summer job,hanging out with his mates and swimming. But what he didn't know he was going on an advinture with Gramps. There first stop was at a church to visit his grans grave. Then they drove to a diner. They ate and they saw a little girl with her aunt and uncle. Dakotas aunt and uncle would only let her eat a salad which she didn't eat. Dakota snuck out of the diner and got into Wils truck. When Will and Gramps got done they got in the truck and they drove. Dakota scared Wil and Gramps, she caused them to almost wreck. Dakota thrower up in a bag of theirs. Wil and Gramps got out if the truck and was trying to figure out what to do. Dakota woke up and she was hungry she hadn't ate anything all day. She was telling them that hed dad has been in and out of jail. Dakota was not allowed to see her mom at all or her dad,aunt and, uncle would kill her and who's brought her back to her mom. Gramps had to make a phone call while they irdered food. Come to find out that Dakota has millions in trust funds. Her aunt and uncle wants all of it. The only person who cares about her is her mother. Frank her uncle was to take care of her. Dakota can not touch the trust funds till she is 18 and. Frank gets half of it. The reason Dakotas dad is in jail is because he is apart of a mob, who does illegal tho vs. Antonio is Dakotas father one if the men who works for the mob and he took Dakota. They saw a red suv and Antonio was in it. They were going to get her back from him. Wil and Gramps found Dakota and Antonio was gonna put her on a plane till Will and Gramps stopped him. When Antonio was a kid Gramps gave him bone marrow so he would not die of cancer. Gramps told Antonio what he had done. Then they herd the cops comming. The cops got closer and Gramps keep trying to get Dakota from Antonio, so Dakota could get back to her mom. Antonio thanked Gramps for what he had done. The cops arrested Antonio and Dakota said good buy to Wil and Gramps.And Dakota finally got to see her mother.
Out Of Sync (Book) - 8/18/2018 5:49:09 PM
5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Out of Sync had me hooked from the very start. It is an action packed nail-biting thriller.Gripping and intense, the fast-paced plot rocketed along keeping me on the edge of my seat. I very highly reccomend this book. It is such a great psychological suspense novel that is Very well written . I loved this book. It grips you on page one. I started reading and just couldn't stop i Read it in one sitting because it is Unputdownable. Anyone who enjoys a good psychological thriller this book is for you. Chynna T. Laird writing is superb and her descriptions excellent. It will easily captivate the reader’s attention from the beginning. The author paints a gripping and mesmerizing story in a very vivid and convincing way. In addition, the characters are drawn with great credibility and conviction. It’s a fast-paced novel that will keep you engaged from the first page to the last
Now, if that’s not enough to get your curiosity juices flowing, I don’t know what will. But if you want to find out what happens, you’ll just have to turn the pages for yourself! However, I will say it’s well worth reading .
Out of Sync has everything a good story should have. An intriguing plot, attention to detail, but best of all well-written and well-rounded character development. There’s an abundance of well-illustrated scenes that make you feel like you are right there in the story, and that’s something I really look for in a good book.
Very appealing and alluring. The story flowed from scene to scene with ease, and the author shows exceptional ability when it comes to storytelling. There is plenty of non-stop action in this page turner that will take the reader on a truly gripping and intense ride. I’ll be looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.In my humble opinion, I honestly think this would make a great movie. Five stars from me.
Just Shut Up and Drive (Book) - 3/13/2018 9:46:01 AM
With very little pretense, author Laird manages to dive into the complicated, sarcastic relationship between a young man and his elderly grandfather with aplomb and a manageable bit of grace.
Through the lens of a cross-Canada trip, we see Wil and Gramps get into all sorts of mischief as Gramps determinedly shows Wil what he needs to know to come to terms with his past, for his sake and the sake of Gramps himself. From kidnapping to graveyards to more pie and coffee than you can shake a stick at, Laird crafts a coming-of-age tale with characters that are easy to relate to and will leave you wanting more.
Out Of Sync (Book) - 2/27/2018 8:10:31 AM
Tense Edgy Suspense with Intriguing Native American Mysticism
By Glenda on February 27, 2018
Format: Paperback
It was just another case for which Dr. Cheyenne McCarthy had been asked to act as an expert witness... It was just another case where her husband, William, had been assigned...
But, this time, the killer threatened that he would come after those who had been involved in capturing him... And before long, his first victim was William McCarthy, Cheyenne's husband...
Cheyenne McCarthy is an intriguing character, with an unusual set of symptoms that affect many people in various ways. It was six months after her husband had been murdered when Cheyenne had made her first attempt to go back to her office, clearly having suffered from clinical depression as well as her long-time sensory issues which created odd responses to people, situations, and events. In the book she was adopted through a closed arrangement so had no ability to learn of her medical background. But her description was about loud and too much noise, as well as smells which she could not stand. To me they were perhaps symptoms I had seen in forms of autism but Cheyenne had never been diagnosed, living with "being different" somehow all her life. It was her husband who had shielded her from many of these issues--now she was on her own... For me, Laird's interest in using her novels to spotlight health issues many individuals face required kudos for her, but also provided an interesting facet to the main character's personality as she found herself called in to help with... forensics of criminal cases... It would be interesting to learn more about her in other novels...
Almost before she finished watching the news where she had heard that the condition of the Chief would not be released until the family had been notified, Perry, William's partner was at her door to take her to the hospital...While turning off the stove and the lights, she saw the "positive" pregnancy test on the table, which was the basis for her surprise dinner... She left it there, hoping William would be back home soon...
Now clearly pregnant, with William gone, Cheyenne was once again depending on her friend Perry. They had previously had a relationship that seemed to stay at the friendship level, but it was Perry who took on the role of protector. Indeed he was there that first day she had come back to her office. However, it wasn't only to ensure the office was safe, but he needed her help. They had found an older native american, Chief Longfellow, who had information about the case, but he would only share it with Cheyenne...
It is at that point that the mysticism of a native american elder brings guidance... and, though blind, he sees much... In this story, the Chief becomes a major character who works with Cheyenne on through the book. Yes, there is a connection which lends a very surprising and wondrous climax to the story.
Marcus Harper is a dangerous, vengeful man and is the villain readers will meet right from the very beginning. Indeed, readers will learn much about his thoughts as the drama begins and Marcus is on the hunt... And then specifically hones in on Cheyenne, torturing her with notes and invasions into her home...
Psychological suspense is heavy as Marcus seems to be able to get in an out of places and just disappear... Where can you hide from such a disturbed man? The book is tense, edgy, and yet is lightened by those who care about Cheyenne and support her as much as they can. But she couldn't help but remember the dream shared by Chief Longfellow--he was coming for her and what she had... And Cheyenne had realized from his notes that it could very well be her baby that he wanted...
Highly recommended!
GABixlerReviews
Paperback provided by Authors Den
White Elephants (Book) - 1/28/2017 5:07:16 AM
This is a problem in many families today. No one wants to take responsibilities anymore. Poignant story!Bravo for you.
Just Shut Up and Drive (Book) - 7/21/2015 5:29:05 AM
Sounds a story I'd like to eventually read though as I am on disability I have limited resources but I am sure the time will come when I can spare some bucks to buy this...think I would enjoy this...-e-
Blackbird Flies (Book) - 4/28/2014 7:52:41 AM
Sounds like there's some in depth personality conflicts and sorting out on the horizon.
The Gray Felt Hat (Short Story) - 2/6/2019 2:57:48 PM
I enjoyed this very much, and I still see a lot of men in hats, I have a few myself. the story is very well presented and with a lot to say about encounters with strangers.
The Gray Felt Hat (Short Story) - 2/1/2019 11:08:54 PM
words to live by
enjoyed the read
never stop writing!
m
The Gray Felt Hat (Short Story) - 1/18/2019 4:23:21 AM
A moving story about a kind stranger who made a profound difference in your life when you needed it.
The Gray Felt Hat (Short Story) - 1/17/2019 9:38:58 AM
A wonderful story of what a stranger meant to you. It seems strange that someone would be wearing a felt hat in 1984, but I recall my father wearing those hats in the 1950s, but not later.
I had an open family and have always tried to engage in conversation whenever I was on public transportation, in spite of some peoples' reluctance to talk.
After my hands and arms were paralyzed in spinal surgery, I was grateful to still be able to drive. I couldn't pump gas, and very soon, all gas stations went from full-service to self-service. In spite of that, I never was delayed in finding someone to cheerfully pump my gas and even change my tires, although they were total strangers.
Ron
Goodbye, Bluebird (Short Story) - 11/29/2018 10:28:39 AM
lovely tribute, lovely read
never stop writing
m
Goodbye, Bluebird (Short Story) - 11/23/2018 9:36:30 AM
I've never seen a bluebird. I understand they are in danger.
Your story is very well written and emotional. I'm not emotional about death. I was present when my maternal grandfather died of a stroke and my paternal grandmother, of Alzheimer's. But I was away when my maternal grandmother and paternal grandfather both died of cancer. I was fortunate to have them in my life until I was in college. I didn't mourn their deaths because in every case, it relieved their suffering from these terrible life ending conditions.
They are all buried in the same cemetery, but their graves are hard to find because there are no upright monuments. Just ground-level plates. When my paternal grandfather died I was in San Francisco and dating a nurse from Saskatoon. She was very troubled and had been raised by her grandmother after her parents divorced. She left me and returned to Saskatoon, marrying a schoolteacher there.
Ron
Goodbye, Bluebird (Short Story) - 11/23/2018 4:20:57 AM
A beautiful, touching story which soars like a bluebird.
Taking Care of Mama - Remembering Six Things (Article) - 11/22/2018 6:25:36 PM
Your writing is indeed a good read to uplift readers of all ages. We indeed need even more words of advice and reminders in troubled times. In my conversations with colleagues at work, teasing often tests our patience and the way we react. Mind-boggling words may often trigger unnecessary, uneasy feelings but know that we are in control of our reactions to our circumstances. Being careful not to say anything if nothing good can be said is being wise as judgment is always passed, without the intention to do so, even to good friends. Keep them close as their experience and senior words of advice may just save our lives, as it did to me. I may not be around anymore, if not for them. Thanks to friends, and to you too, a mom who has taken great pains to care.
Do check my anthology of poems "Chronicles of Life in Poetry" over amazon.com
Taking Care of Mama - Remembering Six Things (Article) - 3/10/2017 6:52:07 AM
Very good advice for people who are independent multitaskers and consider themselves indispensable (most moms).
For those fighting cancer like you, healthy living is probably the most effective way of fighting it. I certainly hope your resolve will win your battle for you.
Ron
