THE TRUCKER’S CAT – She’s Young, Driven, and Hunted. He’s Hardened, Wounded, and Her Only Way Out.

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“Some men think there’s a choice between right and wrong. Great men know there is none.” ~General Steven Randall

When the daughter of a decorated general uncovers a plot to assassinate the President, she must rely on a jaded trucker with a secret mission to get her across the country before it’s too late.

THE TRUCKER’S CAT is a high-stakes political thriller with heart, combining the urgency of a covert operation with the emotional depth of two people finding connection amid chaos.

At the Russian Embassy where she lives with her mother and stepfather, Samantha Randall intercepts intelligence pointing to an imminent attack on the U.S. President. With no one she can trust and echoes of her late father’s famous words urging her to act, Samantha embarks on a desperate cross-country journey to find the one man unknowingly hauling the proof.

Major Logan McCormick, a battle-hardened military officer turned covert hauler, is done with entanglements—especially emotional ones. Scarred by a bitter divorce and disillusioned by politics, he sticks to his assignments and keeps his heart locked down. When he finds Samantha stranded in the middle of nowhere, protocol says leave her. Instinct—and something deeper—says otherwise.

Now, hunted by Russian special forces and a second shadow team with murky motives, Samantha and Logan must work together to protect the cargo, stop the plot, and make it out alive. Along the way, they’ll challenge each other’s beliefs, confront buried pain, and learn that doing the right thing often means risking everything.

THE TRUCKER’S CAT is a fast-paced, emotionally resonant story grounded in themes of duty, sacrifice, and the moral clarity passed from one generation to the next.

THE TRUCKER’S CAT on Amazon

Only $0.99

Quinn’s Revenge

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The In the Name of Family Series is officially complete with its final book, Quinn’s Revenge—and the finale does not hold back. Secrets unravel. Loyalties are tested. And revenge comes at a cost.

After nearly two decades, these characters are finally moving out of my head. They’ve been living there rent-free for years—arguing, making questionable life choices, and refusing to follow my outlines. Honestly, it’s a miracle we all survived.

This saga actually began with The Chemical Attraction Series before expanding into my Thompson Universe with In the Name of Family. Along the way, Joe, Taylor, Eva, and the rest of the gang collided with Samantha and Logan McCormick, Bear, and later Brianna and Robert Donovan. It’s basically one big, slightly dysfunctional fictional family reunion.

And for those of you who’ve been paying attention? There are Easter eggs everywhere. Hidden connections. Familiar names. Subtle nods. If you’ve read from the beginning, you’ll catch them. If not, well… that just means you have homework.

If you’ve been waiting to start—or finish—the series, now’s your moment. You can jump in almost anywhere since most of the books stand alone. No judgment. I won’t tell the others.

You can find my novels in Paperback, eBook, and Audiobook on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple, and more.

As for me, I’m stepping away from writing for a while to chase a few other passions. (Don’t worry. I’m not running off to join a traveling circus. Probably.)

Thank you for reading, supporting, reviewing, recommending, and caring about these fictional people as much as I do. Truly.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to savor the eerie quiet now that my characters have finally stopped talking over each other.

The Chemical Attraction Series

In the Name of Family Series

2025 End of Year Book Sale

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Exciting News!
Four of my novels will be FREE during the Smashwords 2025 End of Year Sale!

From the Chemical Attraction Series, you can pick up:

  • Their Rigid Rules
  • The Kindred Code

And from the In the Name of Family Series:

  • The Trucker’s Cat
  • The Major’s Dilemma

This sale is a wonderful chance to enjoy my stories—along with books from many other talented indie authors—at absolutely no cost.

Grab the FREE Books:

In the Name of Family Series

Chemical Attraction Series

Explore the full promo HERE

If you’d like to support me and other indie authors, please share the sale with your friends and fellow readers. Your support truly means the world.

Happy reading—and thank you!

The Perfect Getaway for Families, Friends & Fun

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Magical 5-Bedroom, 4-Bathroom Lodge with a Secret Passage, a Hidden Chamber, a Pond & a Pavilion

Gather your favorite people and escape to Holiday Retreat’s Dugan Lodge near Big Rapids, Michigan — a warm, welcoming haven nestled on 19 scenic acres. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, friends’ getaway, or multi-generational vacation, this spacious 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom lodge has room for everyone to relax and reconnect.

Inside, you’ll find two cozy living rooms, a full kitchen for group meals, and plenty of space to dine, unwind, and make lasting memories. Kids will love following our clues to discover a hidden chamber and a secret passageway — surprises that adds a touch of adventure to their stay.

Step outside to enjoy a private pavilion, a swimming pond, mowed nature trails, and fun activities. The land is in the process of being transformed into a campground designed for neurodiverse families — making this retreat especially meaningful and family-friendly.

Located just 0.7 miles from Stone House Vineyard and only 4 miles from the Chippewa Lake DNR Boat Launch, it’s the perfect base for wine tasting, boating, or simply soaking up the natural beauty of the area.

Book your stay at Dugan Lodge — where comfort, connection, and a little magic await.

Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke

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Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke

Zita and Joseph tamper with a device found in a meteoroid crater which allows an alien to abduct Joseph to another universe. Zita follows after him and finds she must rescue him.

Originally published: 2011

Genres: Graphic novel, Comics, Novel, Science fiction

Illustrator: Ben Hatke

My Review of Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke

I absolutely loved this children’s graphic novel. The characters are distinct and memorable, the illustrations are vibrant and full of life, and the pacing makes it a quick, engaging read. I was completely absorbed in the story and lost track of time. I was initially drawn to the book because of the name—Zita was also my grandmother’s name—but Zita the Spacegirl more than lived up to my expectations. A delightful adventure from start to finish!

Legends of Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke

Zita’s exploits from her first adventure have made her an intergalactic megastar! But she’s about to find out that fame doesn’t come without a price. And who can you trust when your true self is being eclipsed by your public persona, and you’ve got a robot doppelganger wreaking havoc . . . while wearing your face? Still, if anyone can find their way through this intractable mess of mistaken identity and alien invaders, it’s the indomitable Zita, in Legends of Zita the Spacegirl.

Published 2012

Genres: Graphic novel, Comics, Novel, Science fiction

Illustrator: Ben Hatke

My Review of Legends of Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke

I enjoyed this second installment every bit as much as the first. The story is filled with fun, imaginative characters, and I especially admired Zita for her strength and compassion. It’s a quick read with gorgeous illustrations—an absolute joy from beginning to end.

The Return of Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke

Zita the Spacegirl has saved planets, battled monsters, and wrestled with interplanetary fame. But she faces her biggest challenge yet in the third and final installment of the Zita adventures. Wrongfully imprisoned on a penitentiary planet, Zita has to plot the galaxy’s greatest jailbreak before the evil prison warden can execute his plan of interstellar domination!

Published 2014

Genres: Graphic novel, Comics, Novel, Science fiction

Illustrator: Ben Hatke

My Review of The Return of Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke

The third installment is a wonderful conclusion to the Zita the Spacegirl series. Each page bursts with bright colors that perfectly match the vibrant, quirky cast of characters. I’m a big fan of Zita—and of her talented creator, Ben Hatke.

Zita the Spacegirl on AMAZON

THE GARDEN COLLECTION – Letters, Lies, and a Love that Wouldn’t Let Go

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A few words of encouragement can stay with you for a lifetime.

In The Garden Collection, a contemporary Cinderella-inspired romance set in a quiet, wintry town in West Michigan, two childhood friends must confront painful truths and rediscover their bond in the face of fear, forgiveness, and enduring love.

Brianna Carlson is an optimistic realist who finds joy in life’s small moments—even while shouldering the heavy responsibility of caring for her six-year-old half-sister, Chloe. Working at the local diner, she masks her worries with warmth and selflessness.

Brianna has just learned that her abusive stepfather is being released from prison. Fearing for her sister’s safety, she makes a desperate choice to disappear with Chloe.

Robert Donovan is composed and refined, juggling the demands of his family’s jewelry business with his quiet passion for art. Encouraged by Brianna years earlier to pursue inspiration beyond the confines of home, Robert has spent the past five years traveling the world—guided by her heartfelt letters.

But when Robert returns, he’s stunned to learn Brianna lied in every letter she sent. Worse, she never received any of his replies. Before he can confront her, she vanishes—leaving Chloe behind.  As Robert uncovers what she’s endured during his absence, he sets out to find her—and prove she can trust him with her heart and her future.

The Garden Collection is a poignant, emotional romance rooted in friendship, trauma, and the healing power of love.

THE GARDEN COLLECTION on AMAZON

Our Dream: Creating an Inclusive Campground for Neurodiverse Families

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🌟 Exciting News! 🌟

For over two years, we’ve searched for the perfect campground to create a premier camping experience for families with special-needs children—a place that is calm, welcoming, and designed with accessibility in mind. After exploring locations across multiple states, we finally made a big decision… We’re building it ourselves!

We recently closed on 20 acres in Evart, Michigan!


Pending state and county approvals, our vision will include:
✅ A Peaceful, Low-Capacity Retreat

✅ Six Resort Cabins with ADA-Compliant Bathrooms

✅ Six Rustic Cabins, Eight RV sites, Six Glamping Tents & Six Covered Wagons

✅ An All-Abilities Playground and many more ADA-Friendly Amenities

We can’t wait to bring this dream to life and offer a relaxing, inclusive space for neurodiverse families to enjoy nature together. Follow our journey on Holiday Retreat Family Camp’s Facebook Page as we turn this vision into reality!

Free & $0.99 Book Deals! Dive into the Action-Packed IN THE NAME OF FAMILY Series Today!

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FREE & $0.99 Romantic Suspense Reads!

Danger. Passion. High-stakes action. IN THE NAME OF FAMILY SERIES will keep you on the edge of your seat!

Book 1: THE TRUCKER’S CAT – FREE!
A daring escape. A covert mission. Samantha and Logan can’t outrun the danger—or their undeniable chemistry.

Book 2: THE MAJOR’S DILEMMA – FREE!
A past mission resurfaces, a deadly threat looms, and a choice between duty and family could cost him everything.

Book 3: THEIR STOLEN HEARTS – ONLY $0.99

When a robbery, a rogue agent, and a band of meddling seniors collide, secrets unravel—and the truth may be the most alarming theft of all.

Book 4: JOE’S WOUNDED QUEEN – ONLY $0.99

A honeymoon meant for healing turns into a fight for survival when newlyweds Joe and Madeline become the targets of a relentless pursuit. As danger closes in, their greatest challenge isn’t just staying alive—but staying together.

Book 5: CONNOR’S BRAVE BEAR – ONLY $0.99

A lost love, a hidden child, and a deadly secret— Can the Connor family uncover the truth before danger finds them all?

Don’t miss out! Grab your copies of IN THE NAME OF FAMILY SERIES now!

Review: Jordinia Romance Adventure Series by C.K. Brooke

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About The Emperor’s Expedition

When the Emperor of Jordinia tasks his two underachieving nephews to spearhead an expedition to the untamed North Isles, the impish and audacious Duke Andrew leaps at the chance to make history and stand out among his four brothers. While he manages to convince his reclusive brother Ludwig to join him, he is less enthusiastic about their sister tagging along.

Duchess Johannah, desperate to conceal her secret, out-of-wedlock pregnancy and evade courtly scandal, sees the expedition as the perfect ruse. Accompanied by their entourage of intrepid guards, the royal siblings set forth to conquer the wilderness…only to discover that the islands are already inhabited.

Amidst perilous clashes with the Northern clans, alliances are forged and fractured, loyalties waver, and forbidden love commands sacrifice as each explorer’s fealty to blood and country is put to the test. From an icy shipwreck to abductions, ambushes, and arranged marriages, nothing goes as planned in this fast-paced comedy of errors brimming with humor, heroics, and plenty of heart.

My Review

C.K. Brooke delivers an exhilarating journey in The Emperor’s Expedition! This fast-paced adventure is brimming with rich storytelling and a cast of distinct, well-developed characters. The suspense had me eagerly turning pages. Brooke masterfully blends action, intrigue, and emotion, making this a truly immersive read. If you love gripping fantasy with depth and adventure, this book is a must-read.

The Emperor’s Expedition on Amazon

About The Emperor’s Daughters

Grand Duchess Raphaela of Jordinia has sworn off men and matrimony, aching for independence beyond familiar soil. When an unexpected invitation to a distant palace arrives, Raphaela sees it as her chance at freedom—if only her father, the Emperor, will allow it.

Meanwhile, her sister Benedicta is determined to make a difference in the world before settling down. As she travels to the tropics on a charity mission, Benedicta must prove to the mission’s leader that she is more than just a pampered princess.

In the desert, following an enchanting encounter with the alluring Sultan of Al-Habar, Raphaela struggles to resist his charm, all while fending off advances from his slimy stepson, Prince Arwun. Ensnared in a web of palace intrigue, danger, secret romance, and even murder, Raphaela must navigate the treacherous waters of loyalty and love in a foreign land. Will the sisters find the courage to defy convention and forge their own paths, or will tradition and betrayal tear apart their family and their hearts?

My Review

From the very first page, The Emperor’s Daughters had me completely enthralled! C.K. Brooke masterfully weaves a tale of love, intrigue, and suspense, keeping the tension high and the pages turning. The strong-willed female characters are truly inspiring, bringing depth and resilience to the story. With its perfect blend of romance, mystery, and adventure, this novel is an absolute gem.

The Emperor’s Daughters on Amazon

Joe’s Wounded Queen

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Joe’s Wounded Queen is the fourth book of In the Name of Family Series. I also consider this book the fifth book of the Chemical Attraction Series, because it’s a continuation of the fourth, Chemical Reaction. Why add it to the new series? It’s a better fit to the overall storyline of In the Name of Family Series. In any case, it’s a standalone novel.

In the Name of Family Series: We support and sacrifice. We despise, disrupt, and destroy.

Madeline’s independent; Joe needs to be in charge. They marry a month after meeting. Can their relationship really last a lifetime?

On their honeymoon at a secluded cabin in Canada, FBI Agent Joe Roberts and Dr. Madeline Pierce deal with the profound effects from their previous case. They have yet to consummate their marriage and struggle to share their apprehensions.

They receive a call from the FBI. Someone broke into Joe’s apartment, looking for their whereabouts. The hunt is now on in an epic chase across the wilderness. The stakes are high, and the journey is as perilous as it is passionate.

Joe and Madeline’s knowledge of each other will play a vital role while on the run. If successful, their insights will save lives and, more importantly, save their marriage.

Joe’s Wounded Queen on AMAZON