I hope everyone had a safe, happy, and socially distant Memorial Day. While I have no facts to back this up beyond the reduced number of motorcycles going by the house, I feel like far fewer out-of-towerners came to visit the area this year. On one hand that’s a shame given how perfect the weather’s been, but on the other hand, my little corner of the world has been largely spared the worst of the virus so we’re not exactly anxious for the huge influx of city people that happens every summer. Hopefully as long as everyone behaves themselves, a nice summer will be had by all.

As for me, my Memorial Day was spent quietly with a nice hot dog for lunch, some work in the garden, and generally taking it easy. Not all that different than every other day as far as that goes.

After lunch I got to my writing computer and managed another solid five pages. I realized I should probably explain that I’m talking about manuscript pages running about 250 words each, not actual book pages where are closer to 325 words each.

I almost forgot to tell you about the trees. All the fruit trees are in full blossom. When I went shopping last week I passed the orchards and the trees all looked like they were covered in cotton balls. It’s really pretty. My flowering crab is a pink puff ball at the moment. On the downside, my allergies are killing me.

So last night I finished the book I’d been reading. It’s been a while since I did a review so I thought it would be fun to put one here. I don’t if any of you are gamers, but this book was based on a video game franchise, Splinter Cell, created by the late Tom Clancy. It’s about a lone operative named Sam Fisher who goes behind enemy lines on all kinds of dangerous missions. As you’ve certainly guessed, it’s a thriller.

This was the third book in the series, titled Fallout and it sees Sam chasing down a dangerous weapon in the hope that he can stop it before something horrible happens. I won’t spoil it by giving away too many details, but if you enjoy globe hopping thrillers with lots of action, this is a series and book for you. I think there are four books in it. And the first three were great.

It’s written by David Michaels. I feel kind of bad for him. His name is in itty bitty font on the bottom while Tom Clancy’s is huge right at the top. I get that the guy was a mega bestseller, but he’s been dead for a while now. Maybe it’s time to give the actual author top billing.

But that could just be me feeling bad for a fellow writer. I’m sure he was paid well enough not to care where his name was on the cover.

Finally preorders are up to 285. We’re so close to 300 I can taste it. Thanks everybody.

Talk to you tomorrow.