World Travel Tales (Book) - 12/10/2018 10:47:02 AM
Terry is a gifted author who has the ability to bring you into the story with him. I have traveled extensively in the states but not overseas and that was what peaked my interest in this book. I have no problem living vicariously through others and it was his travel abroad that interested me.
I was not disappointed at all. His opening story Diversions in Dublin had me hearing those Irish accents throughout the tale while the next story of Mugging in Amsterdam caused me to be very anxious while I read along wondering if we would be mugged.
I enjoyed the short story format through his book. I laughed out loud in a medical clinic while waiting for someone and hoped that no one thought anything of it. Scare in Alaska was the culprit in that experience but not the only one I took away from this book.
I never thought about things from the perspective of a business traveler prior to reading this book and that opened my eyes to someone else's perspective. I became more interested in exploring tai chi after reading about Terry's experiences.
I recommend reading this book for anyone interested in learning more about traveling experiences.
Mystery on the Seine (Book) - 11/5/2018 10:15:52 AM
After reading 'Mystery at Deadfall Lake', the first book, I was looking forward to reading 'Mystery on the Seine'.
'Mystery on the Seine' did not disappoint. This is a thoroughly enjoyable publication that is easy to read and well worth your time.
The story-line is well thought out and flows seamlessly with the genre of these books. The characters are fun and while there is the criminal element involved, they also are fun but real to life.
The retired couple represented in these books is certainly not people who are going to get bored with retirement as adventures seem to find them around every turn.
McGhee definitely has the gift of storytelling and in such a way that grabs the reader from the first paragraph.
Mystery at Deadfall Lake (Book) - 10/15/2018 6:44:42 PM
This is the first book of this authors that I have read. It was pretty good.Started off very slow but then it just kinda sucks you in with action and from there it is a steadily paced story with twists, turns . Im glad i stuck with it. The setting is in a small town which i love.The main character Jake is a senior citizen who is retired. He was funny at times but very likeable. If you love mystery solving and smart characters, read this book. Thanks for the chance to read this book. Looking foward to see what e)se this author has in store for us.
The Awakening (Book) - 9/8/2018 4:20:12 PM
The Awakening is the third book in the Jake Vincent Mystery series. While it can be read as a stand alone book, I can recommend reading the first two books. In The Awakening readers are reunited with
retired security investigator Jake Vincent who has helped both the local police and the FBI. While working in Washington DC, Jake becomes involved in a political murder case. Retirement is not usually so dangerous.
This is a well told story. The interesting plot has enough components to keep readers engaged. The story, which has twists and turns and surprises, moves quickly and is very easy to read. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Author's Den. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Mystery on the Seine (Book) - 8/28/2018 4:06:13 PM
Mystery on the Seine (A Jake Vincent Mystery) is the sequel to Mystery at Deadfall Lake. Mystery on the Seine can be read as a stand alone book as the author does an excellent job of presenting enough background information to tie the two books together. I can recommend reading Mystery at Deadfall Lake as it is a terrific story.
Jake, a retired security investigator, and his wife, Barb, embark on a Paris vacation which is a thank you gift from the FBI for Jake's help solving a case. Included in the gift is a cruise on a luxury liner on the Seine. What should have been the trip of a lifetime ends up with a murder, Ponzi scheme suspects on the run and possible Russian mob involvement. And, there is more danger waiting for Jake and Barb at home.
This is a well written and fast moving story.There is nothing boring about the characters or the plot. Well worth reading! Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Authors Den. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Mystery at Deadfall Lake (Book) - 8/14/2018 9:25:28 AM
The easy-to-read font and the size of the book (to hold or put in a tote), picturesque cover, and in paperback were great marketing on the part of the author and/or publishing team.
I would recommend this book to that reader who wants to read a mystery without all the blood and gore.
Focus of the book enabled this reader to better follow the story and become familiar with the characters. Watching the investigation unfold, from the first contact, added to the solemn nature of the event and also to the continuing criminal actions in this small community.
The snooping around years later highlights the desperation of the criminal element to never be found out. We are also given a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes' conversations of law enforcement trying to stop a prisoner's parole.
I reached an opinion early on that Wendy and Roy were no longer alive and was sitting on pins and needles to find out if the bodies would be found and if anyone would be held accountable. Fascinating for the puzzle pieces to come together--and in time.
As this story unfolds, the reader observes how one retired person's life spirals out of control over what are assumed innocent inquiries. Boy---from wanting to simply volunteer time and experienced services on an age-old event to life and death situations---is quite the tale and has all the making of a television series or movie.
While labeled fiction, the parallels throughout the story to real life is chilling. The ability of a young Wendy to know this guy was creepy and dissuade any relationship shows maturity well beyond her years.
this story is a reminder that there are unknown angels in our communities giving their time and experienced services when and where needed. Examining the relationship between the police, FBI, and this volunteer and his wife exhibits--it can be done with amazing results.
The Awakening (Book) - 8/12/2018 9:32:57 AM
It's early 2017 and America is gearing up for a new president, to be elected in November. But the rumblings, the concern of many Americans has been building for many, many years. People are beginning to question the political atmosphere in Washington and early campaigning has already become rougher than usual...
For Jake and Murphee, they were happy to be up and heading for their first walk in the morning. His wife of 50 years wanted nothing to do with either of them and promptly banned them from returning to the bedroom for at least a couple of hours... Breakfast...everything was wonderful, away from the world, far in the mountains...Until Breaking News interrupted...
Even after so many years working with the government related to security issues, Jake was still caught off guard by hearing about a released report by one of America's leading research centers, Just the Facts, regarding the growing negative view and diminished respect for America by world leaders...and that a significant political polarization existed among the American public...our country was becoming divided... Jake realized that being off from the center of activity allows people to become separated from the reality of the world situation. He was concerned more than shocked, given all that had happened during past years...
Nothing, however, prepared him for what was happening under the surface...what actions were being taken to ensure things happened as certain people wanted them to... Jake had already been scheduled to do a security consultancy for the FBI related to their physical facilities. He had worked with the agent, Sam, for many years and was looking forward to a little time, and extra money coming in during their retirement.
What he wasn't prepared for was the murders and disappearances that were happening there in Washington. There was no way he wouldn't become involved, much to his wife's disappointment and concern. As various investigations were pulled together, everybody soon realized that the victims were deeply involved in politics and their murders likely to have been politically motivated!
The conceptual storyline for those who were pulling the strings and acting as executors, was unique, yet very possible. This made for an intriguing and dangerous hunt--and Jake wound up right in the middle, even if he was really there to evaluate and recommend security improvements!
On a personal level, I truly appreciate seeing older writers, writing about older individuals who continue to be involved and interested in what is happening in the world. While the story has little to do with the actual events of that November election, it is a timely book, fringing on the reality of today's ever-increasing divide in America. I found it intriguing that many of the political thoughts of the characters could easily have been those of one party versus another...I think that attracted me more to the book than anything else... That is, are we really so different? And what is causing the great divide?
One final comment on the fascinating book cover! I loved it...turn it upside down and see the location in Washington where "The Awakening" occurred! I enjoyed this exploration and finished the book in one setting! Highly recommended! And check out Book Readers Heaven for review+!
GABixlerReviews
Mystery at Deadfall Lake (Book) - 6/20/2018 6:58:25 PM
Recently retired Jake git bored. That situation changes quickly when he becomes involved in the investigation of a seventeen year old cold case. But little did Jake know what would be revealed. Mystery At Deadfall Lake is a well crafted story about perseverance , dedication , and cooperation.the characters blend together perfectly.the story is fast paced. I highly recommend reading this an axing story. I am so glad I git the chance to read it.
World Travel Tales (Book) - 5/28/2018 6:16:53 AM
When I saw this book and read its description, I was really excited to get my hands on it. When I started to take annual trips with friends I began journaling and keeping records of different things and events for future use. It was always fun to go back read and get transported back to fun times. This book did not disappoint. I have not been to Europe so I was happy to read about Mr McGhee's adventures. Especially funny was "Naked in London" social media today would have a field day with this one. lol The writing makes you feel like you were right there going along for the trip as the descriptions are so vivid and detailed. This was a fun read and may just change the way I write my own amateur travel journals. Thank you Mr. McGhee for some very pleasant reading.
Mystery at Deadfall Lake (Book) - 5/25/2018 3:24:43 PM
Recently retired, Jake is a bit bored. That situation changes rapidly when he becomes involved in the investigation a seventeen year old cold case. Little did he know what would be revealed.
Mystery At Deadfall Lake is the well crafted story about perseverance, dedication and cooperation. The well defined and realistic characters blend together perfectly. The story is detailed, fast moving and engrossing. I look forward to reading more from this author. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
World Travel Tales (Book) - 3/15/2018 1:06:02 PM
This book was a breath of fresh air. As a lover of travel, I was excited to dive into this book and it did not disappoint. From the start, I always feel like I was reading the travel journal of a friend which made it an easy and enjoyable read. Some of the stories were thoroughly described while others seemed as if Terry himself was sitting down next to me recalling the story. His voice is really heard within the book and each story he tells in different places he has traveled. Although this book is about traveling, I would recommend it if you like to read. The stories are experiences told from various insights of a businessman, husband, friend and of course traveler. My personal favorite was “Mugging in Amsterdam” which left me with excitement and anticipation and eventually laughter.
A great summer read, a light hearted, easy read but impactful travel journal. Thank you for sharing your experiences Terry!
Mystery at Deadfall Lake (Book) - 3/2/2018 9:07:07 AM
Solid Amateur Detective (Cozy) Mystery with Great Series Lead Character!
By Glenda on March 2, 2018
As a senior citizen who retired, moved into a log cabin, and never stopped "working" (yes, writing reviews is work, even though it's fun for me), I was immediately drawn to the main character, Jake Vincent, who, after building a cabin in the woods of the Klamath Mountains of Northern California and settled in, it wasn't long before the couple began to wonder...just what do you do when retired?
Jake had just got done reading the local newspaper--the second time--cover to cover, but when Barb put down her book, she saw a short story that Jake had missed...in the "blast from the past" section...They read about a cold case from 17 years ago when a young couple went on a hike and was never heard from again. The key part of the article was that the reporter asked if anyone had any current information that might justify re-opening the case. It was Barb that suggested that he dig into the mystery from so long ago. Before it was over, they both might have regretted that day they chose to get involved...
Revitalized almost immediately, Jake first went to the town police station. Inspector Hannity Inspector, knowing he was retired, immediate asked why he would be asking about the cold case; but after Jake presented his work credentials--and admitted he was bored--the officer agreed to share the case!
Basically, there wasn't anything in the file other than that the couple seemed normal--hadn't been in trouble in any way and their grades were above average... Wendy's mother still lived in town so Jack had his first step determined after he talked further with the Inspector. Once he got as much information from him, and got approval to proceed, Jack immediately proceeded... He had already been hooked from the time he had read the article!
But after just a few contacts, Jake noticed there might be somebody following him!
Fortunately, there were three of Wendy's classmates still in town and were happy to help if they could... and learned of at least one possible villain--Al Jerkovick! Quite a name for a villain, right? LOL
And they had seen the old gray pickup truck around town but did not know who drove it...
And it was after the meeting with them that Jake's vehicle was damaged--the front windows had been broken out and now covered the seats!
After discovering that Jerkovick was in prison and soon up for parole, Hannity and Jake were soon working with the local police there to bring them up to date of his possible connection to the cold case... The investigation continued on with normal police procedural interviews, but as more and more was discovered, the FBI was soon involved...
Jake was how thinking it was a good thing since he'd been growing more and more concerned and overwhelmed...
This is the first amateur detective (cozy mystery) in which the amateur looked realistically into what was being found and knew that it was now a police case... I appreciated that since some of the books in the genre have the detective walking into some really dangerous situations. I also appreciated how the civilian investigator was molded gracefully into the ongoing case followup. I am sure he was permitted to continue to a great extent because of his former government activities, but the relationship with the police was respectful and considerate, while ensuring that Jake's personal attacks which had continued were stopped and he was safe...
And, then, Jake would have an idea, go off on his own...well, he wasn't totally willing to give up on "his" case...
The book is steady, intriguing, as people became involved and clues were identified. It's a solid cold case murder mystery that keeps readers interested through to the end...But Jake and Barb? They were both ready for that vacation away from it all! If you enjoy cozy/amateur detective mysteries, I think you'll happily follow Jake through this cold case and look forward to the next in series. Highly recommended...
GABixlerReviews
Paperback provided by Authors Den
World Travel Tales (Book) - 2/2/2018 11:11:54 AM
The author was able to relay the highlights of his travels around the world in a way that makes me understand the life of an international business traveler better.
From the first chapter to the end of the book, I was entertained at the situations the author found himself in. Having children who have traveled to some of the same countries, I found it interesting to hear about another person's experiences.
I liked the table of contents indicating each country letting the reader read one chapter, a few, or like me -- the whole book. I enjoyed the shortened version of a few experiences in one country and the general flow of this book.
The reader finds themselves thoroughly enjoying how the author relates each adventure as he flies around the world.
The book was written in an easy-to-read-and-understand format that the advanced elementary reader and older will enjoy.
While writing about his visit to Kuwait the author uses two sentences that sums up how any traveler should prepare to travel anywhere: "Any business traveler to this part of the world needs to know the customs in each country. Respecting them to the fullest is good advice."
Granted this is only one person's recollections of the realities of international travel, but it kept me reading to the end of the book.
As written a few times "that is a story for another time" indicates possibly another similar book on this author's travels--maybe in the United States this time.
This was a fun read for me as someone who does travel much but does not mind living vicariously through those that do.
This paperback would be a great book to sell in bus stations, train depots, and airports because of the ease of reading.
World Travel Tales (Book) - 1/27/2018 6:23:02 AM
Your book titles, and the blurbs, caught my eye, because they are about such interesting subject matter, and the locations mentioned in World Travel Tales resonate with me.
I even spent a couple of months myself in the Sonesta Hotel in Amsterdam during the course of my own travels.
So I have now read the sample chapter about Amsterdam, from your World Travel Tales.
It reads like an outline sketch for a very good short story.
I am surprised, however, that you did not spend more time revising the writing. It looks like you have done the research, by way of your time spent travelling, and you have found a good story to tell, a good plot, but haven't spent much time revising your writing about it.
The whole chapter reads like the notes you would enter in a diary, rather than a final published presentation of your experience.
Sorry to be so negative.
On the more positive side, one does not stop reading the chapter until one reaches the end. One never loses interest. There is plenty of interesting background information about Amsterdam, but not too much; not so much that one would lose interest in continuing to read the main story.
I shan't comment on your behaviour in the story, and shan't pass judgement on that. What matters is that it is a good outline for a short story.
The Awakening (Book) - 1/25/2018 7:52:18 AM
Sounds like a novel pertinent to our day and time. I recall reading a scandalous article that one of our presidential candidates was engaged in the murders of over 20 individuals. I find that accusation to be extremely false and degrading to the political process. TV shows these days depicting Washington are full of murder for hire. About the only thing that is really happening is careers being shot down by scandal.
Would like to see an excerpt of your writing. I don't think your e-book is selling for anything more than $4.99 (high for the average e-book these days). ;-)
Ron
World Travel Tales (Book) - 12/10/2017 5:04:21 AM
While I've found that business travelers usually view their experience differently than those who immerse themselves in a country or culture, study it, or otherwise get more involved. Business travelers usually are expense accounts and stay in the best accommodations, somewhat insulated from the people.
That said, your very short excerpt (a whole story… One of the 20 would have been appreciated) shows that you have a flair for writing that exceeds most travelogue writers.
I find that my travels I one of the greatest sources of my ability to write about different places and different people.
Ron
