A Bridge to Home: A Piece of Baltimore (Book) - 4/23/2023 8:57:05 PM
Family commitments, family problems, family secrets are just some of the issues that Michelle Miller Ibanez has to deal with as she battles to win the Maryland senate race. A lawyer, she walks away from her practice and sends her teenage son to live with her father (who is about to become a father again himself) so she can focus all her energy on the race. With outside, and inside, influences working against her, the competition was exhausting. Her closest confidante is Mr. Faung, who told her story. He was hired by Robert Stark, but was loyal to Michelle from day one, unlike Stark. The author, L.J. Hippler, provides us with an intriguing storyline that highlights Michelle’s love for Maryland, and the Chesapeake Bay. There are numerous side plots including with her father, her son, and her uncle, Father Jerry, with many surprises along the way. “A Bridge to Home” is an interesting page turner of political twisters and a warm familial undertone. This is my first book by Hippler, but it will not be my last. I am hooked! Great read.
The New Road (Book) - 10/26/2017 2:53:39 PM
The New Road, a novel by L.J. Hippler is the moving story about family, a mission, corruption and betrayal. Attorney Michelle Miller Ibanez has accomplished much personally and professionally. Then came House Bill 1664 which threatened to disrupt Michelle's community by constructing a road through her neighborhood. Even though it was a time consuming and daunting task, it became her mission to block the construction. At the same time, her personal life became troubled and the future was uncertain.
This well crafted story has complex and three dimensional characters, most with their own stories. Their relationships were complicated and different worlds came together with sometimes surprising results.
I found this to be a fascinating and engrossing novel.
The New Road (Book) - 10/2/2010 9:32:41 AM
In Larry Hippler’s, The New Road, we see Michelle Miller Ibanez is now thirty-one, an attorney, and unwillingly thrust into a conflict with “powers that be.” She is appointed the head of a neighborhood coalition which is poised, and ready to fight to save their beloved and historic neighborhood from destruction. With the passage of House Bill 1664 comes the approval and construction of a highway interchange which will go right through their homes and hearts.
The reader will fall in love with the heroine, Michelle, have mixed feelings about her father, Buddy Miller, and his much younger girlfriend, Chloe. I couldn’t put this book down as I read, sometimes late into the night, as I traveled through an intricate plot with its host of colorful characters. Larry Hippler sometimes unravels the lives of his heroes, Michelle, loveable Mike D, her uncle, Father Jerry, and even Buddy Miller, the main character of his first novel, Cathedral Street.
From the opening chapter with Michelle’s confrontation with Vance Berg, who gets the justice he deserves, to the floor of the state Senate chamber, Michelle captures the hearts of men and women alike. I envision a sequel which will round out a sure-fire winning combo. Run, don’t walk to your bookstore or computer and buy The New Road.
The New Road (Book) - 7/18/2010 5:12:16 AM
Larry, I am such a fan of Cathedral Street, and now, I can't wait to get this sequel in my hands!
The New Road (Book) - 7/18/2010 4:03:25 AM
Congratulations Larry!
Cathedral Street (Book) - 6/3/2008 3:54:05 PM
This complex and creative debut novel tells the tale of three brothers as they reveal the good, bad, and heavy about Baltimore in all it's glory and seaminess, Cathedral Street and it's inhabitants, and a family of three brothers. With sharp, creative scenes that tell more than they appear to, Cathedral Street is a powerful read. Congratulations, LJ. Can't wait for the sequil.
Cathedral Street (Book) - 12/26/2007 7:52:59 AM
In his exceptional debut novel, Cathedral Street, author L. J. Hippler spans the lives of three brothers: Jerry, Buddy and Tommy Miller, from their dysfunctional childhoods through their somewhat stormy and broken adult lives. Jerry, the oldest, finds solace in his faith and enters the priesthood. Tommy, the youngest, seeks to validate himself as a prize fighter, while Buddy, the turbulent middle child, jaded by his impoverished youth, seeks a life of wealth and luxury at any cost. The brothers drift in and out of each other’s lives throughout the story, bound by the ties of family, if not those of brotherly love.
With his colorful imagery, Hippler brings his setting, the city of Baltimore, to life for the reader, while his stunning attention to detail renders his characters living, breathing people who will not soon be forgotten.
I found this book to be extremely well written and enjoyable. The characters were complex and sprang to life from the first page, evoking a gamut of emotions as their stories unfolded, illustrating the novel’s underlying theme: the far-reaching effects of a father’s cruelty, and of a mother’s love. Cathedral Street has won a permanent place in this reader’s bookcase, as well as her heart.
Highly recommended.
Cathedral Street (Book) - 11/22/2007 11:03:39 PM
You've got me right from the beginning! The excerpt is wonderful and makes the reader want to know more.
Cathedral Street (Book) - 11/22/2007 3:22:44 PM
This book promises the reader a look at life and all of its emotions. This promise makes it a good read. Congratulations on your new book, LJ Hippler. R
Darla (Short Story) - 12/14/2022 11:32:21 AM
Oh, thank you, Ronald. It is very nice to get some positive feedback. I hope I can repay the favor. LJ
Darla (Short Story) - 12/14/2022 11:16:59 AM
From what I read, it is quite intriguing. Actually probably an Action/Thriller, the often mistaken default genre.
But I originally thought it might be a memoir. My junior high unattainable sweetheart who gave me a beautiful ninth grade prom photo for helping her with her algebra, was given that name, Darla. Her mother owned Milady's Beauty Shop on Central Avenue. She later acquired it and has retained her good looks through her 70s. Emailed me recently.
So I was distracted from your story a bit.
Ron
The Blueberry Lager (Short Story) - 8/13/2012 8:03:51 AM
Oh, Larry, why have you stopped writing lately? You are just one of the best writers I know. I love this story, it's slightly spooky...though, like Charlie, I too have experienced something similiar on the phone! You make it all feel so real and also so moving. Tony's dead wife coming to claim him...shivers....
Cuban Cigars (Short Story) - 7/17/2012 6:43:44 AM
Glad Jean directed me here, Larry. This is a marvellous story, comes totally alive and real. I so loved the ending and hope he left Barbara the next day. What a boring woman. He had wit and imagination. I'll marry the guy and he can smoke his cuban cigars every day.
Doubles Tournament (Short Story) - 4/14/2012 8:17:27 AM
Wow! I hate Sampson. What a ... anyways, Like Jean says, you sure brought these characters to life for us. I enjoyed your first book, and hope this one has even better success. --Charlie
Doubles Tournament (Short Story) - 10/19/2009 4:50:57 AM
Thank you for posting this, Larry. The scene is magnificent. In just a few short paragraphs you've made these characters come alive; the cruelly ambitious Sampson and his doormat wife. I can see the golf course and the boats on the river. I can feel the poor woman's anxiety, even sense her quiet hatred of this man who steals her personhood, despite her outward respectfulness. It's been quite some time since the release of Cathedral Street, but I can see that the sequel is going to be worth the wait. Like Dawn, I am so looking forward to this book!
Doubles Tournament (Short Story) - 10/18/2009 9:50:03 PM
Larry, from your opening paragraph you had me...and I could feel this whole scene...as though it were one of my own. I think you've got another winner on your hands. Am so looking forward to reading this one.
Brown’s Treatise on Debate (Short Story) - 10/12/2009 9:59:01 PM
Larry, first, I want to tell you how much you have been missed and how good to read your work again! This is WONDERFUL and has me anxiously waiting for more!!! Your first book had me from start to finish...and I'm thinking this is going to do the same!
Brown’s Treatise on Debate (Short Story) - 10/12/2009 11:03:02 AM
Coming from you, Jean, that is a huge compliment. I will post some more. On this part, I don’t want to give too much away. But I will say that Carlos has a lot of “splainin” to do when he gets home.
Brown’s Treatise on Debate (Short Story) - 10/12/2009 10:03:57 AM
More, More, MORE! LOL.
Larry, your writing is always such a treat and it has been too long since you've graced AD with a story. This excerpt had me from the first word and I cannot WAIT to get my hands on my copy of The Road. But ... Can we have just a snippet more, please, to tide us over?
The Blueberry Lager (Short Story) - 8/19/2008 6:24:01 PM
Holy cow, Hippler! What a story. And the freaky thing, is that something similar happened to me once. I had one of those phones that recharged-- the cheap-old kind before they got good-- anyway, it was dead-dead-dead. So after a few years, I decided to recharge it. But somehow, when I picked up the phone to see how it was doing, it had picked up a phone conversation. I could hear them, but they couldn't hear me (at least very well)-- the freaky thing was, I knew the girl, and I thought she was talking about me. When I tried to interrupt them, I think they heard static, because they paused, but didn't stop. At any rate-- a captivating story! I only wish it wasn't too late to change the past-- but perhaps it could change his future? --Charlie
The Blueberry Lager (Short Story) - 8/2/2008 11:07:27 AM
A captivating story; you grabbed my attention and held it throughout. Thank you, Larry. Love and peace to you,
Regis
The Blueberry Lager (Short Story) - 6/24/2008 6:37:05 AM
Larry, I can only second what Jean said...you had me right from the very beginning! I loved it!
The Blueberry Lager (Short Story) - 6/21/2008 4:37:49 AM
Oh, wow, Larry. This story is stunning! I connected with the old man from the first line and stayed wrapped in his story until the last. What a great premise, rather unlike you, but WOW. I love it.
Cuban Cigars (Short Story) - 4/9/2008 11:57:34 PM
Larry, I felt like I was there with you. I loved the ending, much like me with a toothpaste cap. It's so funny sometimes how we end misery. I love your style.
This Time (Short Story) - 1/21/2008 12:14:40 AM
You write with such incredible imagery, making the reader feel as though he were actually there. A truly powerful write, Larry...just like everything of yours I have read so far.
All Hands on the Deck (Short Story) - 1/11/2008 4:47:05 PM
This seems very real and has a poignant and "raw" quality to it that engages the reader very effectively. Thank you. Love and peace to you,
Regis
All Hands on the Deck (Short Story) - 1/1/2008 2:46:28 PM
A sad reality for this couple - leaves the reader wondering the whys. Excellently done. R
All Hands on the Deck (Short Story) - 1/1/2008 6:23:14 AM
much enjoyed!
This one hits you right between the eyes, as you see love dwindle before them
I too love the ending, for when the magic seems to fade, it too fades...
all that magic, true love and happiness use to bring
sad...
Love and Peace~
Kimmy~
All Hands on the Deck (Short Story) - 1/1/2008 12:46:27 AM
Larry...this was so real...I could feel it...see it. It even had me misty eyed near the end.
All Hands on the Deck (Short Story) - 12/31/2007 7:32:32 PM
Larry, this was a real treat for me. I'm guessing the Michelle in this story is the Michelle from Cathedral Street. If so, it's a nice surprise to have another glimpse into her life so soon. I thought I was going to have to wait until the new book came out! The writing here is your usual flawless storytelling. Love your last line: There were no passing boats. That really said a lot more than it might seem to on the surface. I must say the tone of this story is making me nervous for our girl though. I really want her to have a super life, and it's feeling like a little trouble in paradise? Anyway, I loved this excerpt and I'm really, REALLY looking forward to this next book!
Your biggest fan :)
Jean
My Name is Darla (Short Story) - 12/3/2007 2:56:54 AM
It's very difficult to believe that Cathedral Street is your first novel..Your writing skills are incredible. You have a way of drawing the reader in and wanting more.
Cuban Cigars (Short Story) - 12/3/2007 2:52:33 AM
Larry...I absolutley loved this. It played out in my mind like a movie from start to finish...and I have to say that even though it was about a marriage falling apart...I loved the ending! Excellent!
This Time (Short Story) - 8/27/2007 11:33:13 PM
I loved it, LJ. It makes me feel like I am there with them -- you bring the scene and the feelings to life with your words. Well done!
K
My Name is Darla (Short Story) - 3/14/2007 9:00:49 AM
Nicely done, Larry. This is very believable. Thank you for sharing. Love and peace,
Regis
The Wall (Article) - 3/24/2012 5:40:55 AM
This is definitely one of my favourite books, Larry. I came across it again when sorting out my bookshelves and mean to read it all over again. Can I come to Baltimore!
The Wall (Article) - 9/14/2008 9:44:54 PM
Intense characterization, attention to details--right down to the orange peel. I could just shake Chloe! What's a deep-thinker like him doing with her anyways?
Funny, how when you're young you rush so hard to change things, and then, in a moment of clarity, you find yourself treasuring the past-- no matter how awful. --Charlie
The Wall (Article) - 10/23/2007 12:41:50 AM
Larry, this is wonderful. I can feel every word that you've written, as though I were living it myself. I agree with Jean. I'd love to see this longer. I find myself wanting to know more about Buddy, his relationship with Chloe, and also his daughter, Michelle. I'm curious to know what direction his life will take. Excellent writing.
The Wall (Article) - 8/24/2007 6:37:33 AM
Larry,
Good gawd, this is strong. Your voice is your own and it got me. I was totally engaged. I could see it all, feel it all ... the love of nature, the earth, loved ones ... relationships, changed, out-lived ...the attraction of new blood, young blood and yet the emptiness and sadness that it is unable to transform. Again, your language is your own and quite wonderful.
The Wall (Article) - 8/24/2007 4:32:59 AM
I really liked this story, Larry. As Reg said, you have done a brilliant job of developing Buddy's character. I can sympathize with his loneliness for the past; the dog, his wife, and the way things used to be in general. I think everyone feels this way at one time or another. I would love to see this expanded into a much longer story, as the character has already found his way into my heart. Very nicely done.
The Wall (Article) - 8/23/2007 6:30:31 PM
Interesting psychological developments going on here; characters are revealed. Nicely done.
"It’s awkward for Michelle. That’s why she doesn’t come around any more. She didn’t say that’s why. But I know her."
This is so true. I "speak" from experience.
Thank you for sharing this. Love and peace,
Regis
Parallel Lives (Poetry) - 9/7/2015 8:58:24 PM
Very touching poem, beautifully executed. Everything understated and power-packed. Many years ago, I also had a puppy that not several days later was killed in front of the house in the street traffic. I didn't even have time to get to know him. Then later, I had a cat that travelled with me around the world. She (Mimi) lived to be over 24 years old. There was no sorrow in her passing; she had earned the right to go. Thanks for this wonderful posting. John
Parallel Lives (Poetry) - 9/7/2015 7:40:54 AM
Pippin made a huge impression on your life and I'm so glad you wrote this poem for him. What adventures you had! A 5 pound sack of potatoes? What a feat!
I was so shocked today that my Pomeranian, Jazz, died, I immediately wrote the story of his tragic death and then posted it here in the story section.
Ron
Parallel Lives (Poetry) - 9/6/2015 4:27:37 PM
L.J.
I can empathize with you. I got my precious shih tzu Blackie when he was 4 months old. We had 11 beautiful years of him fetching and playing with his squeaky toys. It was a whole new world having a pet to look after and love. Oh. how I love him. At 11 years old he got cancer. I had to make the awful decision to have him put to sleep. It hasn't been the same since. I miss him every day. I know you miss your Pippin too. May God heal our hearts.
Love and blessings,
Linda
Parallel Lives (Poetry) - 9/6/2015 2:03:23 PM
A dog never stops loving, so faithful until their last day.It would be a wonderful thing if people would care for each other as much as you care for your pet and he for you. It is unconditional love, the best I ever had.
Parallel Lives (Poetry) - 9/6/2015 12:57:10 PM
Very sentimental piece of writing, L.J. Yeah, I have had quite few dogs I watched leave this world. I have a special place in my heart for each and everyone of them, going all the way back to the first dog I ever had. Scooter. So named because she only had three legs. She gnawed the left hind leg off when she got imprisoned in a mechanical trap in the woods. She had almost bled to death by the time she got home.
Free Man Walking (Poetry) - 8/25/2015 12:10:16 PM
Two sides of a coin so very well presented.
Ron
Free Man Walking (Poetry) - 8/25/2015 5:18:43 AM
L.J.
A powerful poem, the end packs a whallop. NO woman should live with abuse. I have and yes, I was also a free woman walking.
Love and blessings,
Linda
Free Man Walking (Poetry) - 8/24/2015 6:15:44 PM
Powerfully ended. Well done.
Thanks,
Chris
Free Man Walking (Poetry) - 8/24/2015 2:10:55 PM
How many times have we gotten free and yet we search to find another problem to engage, sometimes we see the hook before we bite and sometimes we get snagged but would we do this if freedom is really our goal? This is the life of most and you captured it as it is. LJ Hippler.
Snapshots (Poetry) - 9/25/2013 11:25:42 AM
From one who always rhymes their poems, I found this one of yours to be quite moving, I actually had a vision in my mind of what you saw and felt, How often we forget the sacrifice military personnel deal with each day. Thanks for writing this Larry.
Snapshots (Poetry) - 8/13/2012 7:56:45 AM
Glad I came across this very poignant poem. Your ability to be there in a scene is always brilliant. You have a 'movie' mind.
Snapshots (Poetry) - 9/24/2008 10:09:29 AM
Ecellent writing sweet man....be well and always safe...Hugssss
Snapshots (Poetry) - 8/19/2008 11:05:48 AM
Vivid details and something of the atmosphere too in these short lines. Good write. My favorite parts: the brit girl... makes one stop and personalize the moment-- could be my student, my sister, my niece... proud... --Charlie
Snapshots (Poetry) - 8/7/2008 1:13:41 PM
Very nicely done Larry.. I totally enjoy movies with war scenes that involve planes.. and I become very sad too for those who were lost in battles. Your writing is masculine, yet touching. thank you, lindalaw
Snapshots (Poetry) - 8/5/2008 5:36:37 PM
I loved this poem - I followed the first Gulf War in 1991 - the year our son turned 18. Now I support our brave men and women stationed in Afghanistan and Iraq. Thank you for the vivid images. We need to remember our loved ones, friends, and neighbors who are so many miles away & pray for their safe return.
Snapshots (Poetry) - 1/30/2008 3:05:07 AM
This poem made me nostalgic for my days in Kuwait. You capture the mood eloquently with your words and scenes from the desert and the war. Well done!
Snapshots (Poetry) - 1/26/2008 2:07:32 PM
Lonely vigil, these fighter planes -- expressed well as is the contrast with life itself going on as they do this flight. R
Snapshots (Poetry) - 11/27/2007 2:08:36 AM
A vivid and moving "snapshot," Larry.
Snapshots (Poetry) - 8/31/2007 7:15:07 AM
What's very interesting about this poem is how it actually portrays our human reactions when in stressfull situations. Our brains are programed to take in these "Snapshots", such as you express, visual and emotional, and store them forever. . .returning throughout the rest of a lifetime, always utilizing it for whatever reason, as a means to who we've become, since. . .
Excellent~
Love and Peace~
Kimmy
P.S. You must send me a friend request to my, MySpace and then I can add you :)
Snapshots (Poetry) - 8/30/2007 8:01:18 PM
A wonderful tribute to the brave soldiers, make your readers feel for them. Good job with this!!!
Sandie May Angel :o)
Snapshots (Poetry) - 7/22/2007 8:36:18 AM
Poignant and riveting. Thank you for sharing insight in a time when few seem to possess it. "We all wish we were home." As a mom of a soldier, we all wait anxiously for this period in history to be over.
All the best - Melinda
Snapshots (Poetry) - 4/12/2007 1:39:08 AM
Larry, you portray well the pride and the acceptance\conditioning of the soldiers who must do their duty and for whom the unusual becomes the norm...so glad you call the invasion just that...visually, a clear picture drawn with few words...well done.
Gina
Snapshots (Poetry) - 3/3/2007 10:57:17 AM
So glad you found my site so that I now know about you and your work.
This poem is powerful, vivid, and provides a window into this unfortunate reality that I would otherwise not be privvy to. Holy water in a coffe can. Great stuff. Thank you! Jerelyn
Snapshots (Poetry) - 3/1/2007 5:54:53 PM
Tragic snapshots. Well done. Thank you for sharing. Love and peace to you,
Regis
Snapshots (Poetry) - 2/22/2007 6:32:07 PM
A very vivid and moving portrayal of the invasion and the human side of the soldiers. Well done L J.
Snapshots (Poetry) - 2/14/2007 3:02:04 PM
I can picture the field of battle, yet in it are brave men and women whom love life itself.Happy Valentines day.
