Dragon Breath Press

Where Legends Begin.

Reviews

LUCKY THIRTEEN
Marsha Jeanne Thalleen
5.0 out of 5 stars Thrilling
Reviewed in the United States on November 17, 2020
Lucky Thirteen is my first read by Janet Taylor-Perry and I am a fan. This very twisty, very
murdery mystery is a testament to blind faith at its heart. These characters found their way
solidly into my domain. And the plot? Wow, just wow. Really well done. I look forward to more
form this series.
(I could have skipped the history lesson in the epilogue, but the 10 years later more than
made up for it.)


Megan Fox
5.0 out of 5 stars Top read - keeps the pages turning
Reviewed in Australia on July 27, 2015
This was a superb read with lots of twists and turns. The characters are strong, and the
detectives are excellently portrayed. Quite frankly, I couldn't put it down, and I can't wait to get
home and open Book Two. This author has a firm place in my favourites.


DragonParadox
5.0 out of 5 stars Great Read.
Reviewed in the United States on May 2, 2014
Lucky 13 was amazing. As an avid non-reader, I had trouble putting this one down.
I can almost feel a connection with the author. From a guy's point of view, there was
enough mystery with twists and turns to keep it fresh. But not overbearing on the romance
side to make it boring.
If you are looking for a great read, Lucky 13 is a wonderful choice.
Janet, keep up the great work.


Christina
4.0 out of 5 stars Great Thriller!
Reviewed in the United States on March 11, 2014
I'm not sure I'd categorize Lucky Thirteen a suspenseful story, as it's clear early on who the
bad guy is, but the plotline is certainly clever and unique and worthy of the term thriller. This is a
story about a serial killer who kills in a ritualistic way. There doesn't seem to be a pattern at first
—the victims are from all walks of life (man, woman, age, ethnic group). However, there IS a
pattern, and it's an interesting one. What's even more intriguing is that the lead detective on the
case looks an awful lot like the man suspected of kidnapping the thirteenth victim, Larkin Sloan.
Lucky Thirteen also has a romantic subplot, though considering I'm a hard-core smutty and
emotional romance reader, that aspect of the book didn't hold my attention nearly as much as the
way the author unfolded the murder mystery. For me, this made the book harder to get through
than my normal read, but for those who prefer more thriller than romance, I don't think you'll be
disappointed.
I wasn't sure what to expect at first. Was Ray the bad guy, or a victim himself? And what was
up with him looking just like the detective? You'll have to read and find out for yourself. One of
my favorite aspects of this novel was the amount of research the author put into it. From the
dialogue of the police to the FBI, everything came off as plausible, if not outright believable. I
also enjoyed the tidbits of history thrown in—Larkin is a teacher, and her dialogue showcases
her occupation. This is one of those reads where you'll learn a thing or two. I especially liked
how the author ended it, with Larkin explaining the various meanings behind the number 13.
The only thing that really bothered me was the lack of emotional connection I felt regarding
the romance between the characters, but I realize that's personal preference. I prefer a steamier
read served with my suspense and thriller.
Either way, Kudos to Janet Taylor-Perry for a well-written, solidly plotted story.


Molle
5.0 out of 5 stars Lucky Thirteen ( The Raiford Cronicles) ( Volume 1)
Reviewed in the United States on February 24, 2014
Lucky Thirteen kept me reading. I could not put it down and would have read it all in one
sitting, but time prevented it. I did read it in 2 sittings. The characters were so real, and I felt like
they were people I knew. It was much more than about a serial killer. It had a lot of romance,
friendship and people who cared about each other. The plot thickened with each page. I look
forward to the next book in this series.


Angie T.D.
4.0 out of 5 stars Has potential
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on January 30, 2014
I thought this book started out well, and I enjoyed it when it got quite twisty, and I couldn't
figure it out. I thought it was going to be a real cracker. Unfortunately, it suddenly got religious,
and that seemed out of place, and I found it quite off-putting just seemed odd to me. I did like the
characters, and the villain was certainly chilling, but the ending was way too smooth for me. I am
trying not to give too much away but it was all a little neat for me. Having said that, I thought the
book had potential and I would not put anyone else off reading it.


Wynne
5.0 out of 5 stars great mystery read!
Reviewed in the United States on January 2, 2014
This book is definitely a page-turner! I could not put it down until I finished it! Just when
you think the story is over there is more to be told. Lucky Thirteen is a well-written mystery
mixed with love, religion, and it even taught me more about the number thirteen. It's a very
enjoyable read! I look forward to reading the next book in the Raiford Chronicles!


D. L. Norwood
4.0 out of 5 stars Lucky Thirteen (The Raiford Chronicles (Volume1)
Reviewed in the United States on December 18, 2013
I personally know the author, & I was so excited to read the first installment of the Raiford
Chronicles. While I am not fond of romances, it was a clean book, which is a real plus. The book
did have a good message that true love waits & is rewarded in the end. I particularly liked the
scary parts of the book which made my heart beat faster & made me frightened of things that go
bump in the night. Good work, Janet!!!!
I am looking forward to the second book which is expected to be released 2/14/14. It sounds
like a real thriller as well.


Dawn Haschak
5.0 out of 5 stars Lucky Thirteen
Reviewed in the United States on February 17, 2015
First time reading anything by this author, and I really enjoyed it. I got part two and I'm
looking forward to reading that. Great job.


AGH
5.0 out of 5 stars Great read!
Reviewed in the United States on December 16, 2013
Loved it! Could not put it down. Can't wait for the next one! Once you start reading you will
not be able to put it down.


Crazy Grandma
5.0 out of 5 stars You'll never see 13 the same again!
Reviewed in the United States on December 13, 2013
Lucky Thirteen comes out in 2013 and is priced at $13.13. What a creative sales pitch! That
coupled with the blue eye really caught my attention, and I was not disappointed. The story
twists like a pretzel, and just when you think it's all over—you get a set up for another page
turner. I can hardly wait.


Alan R.
5.0 out of 5 stars I know what I like.
Reviewed in the United States on November 11, 2013
I'm not a writer or a critic, but I know what I like. And liked this book. I could not stop reading. I
finished it in one night. The author is from my hometown, and when she came to a family
reunion, I purchased an autographed copy on Sunday afternoon and stayed until 4 a.m. Monday
reading. I can't wait to tell friends to get a copy and to one day say, "I knew her when…"


Diane F
5.0 out of 5 stars Page Turner
Reviewed in the United States on October 27, 2013
Opened to just read a couple of pages and could not put it down!! This is one of those books
that grabs your attention in the first page and doesn't let go. Highly recommend. Can't wait for
the next book in the series.


HEARTLESS
tcat
5.0 out of 5 stars Love These Characters
Reviewed in the United States on June 4, 2024
This book kept getting better as I turned each page. I knew I was in the hands of a great
writer.
I cried for Parker. So many heartfelt moments. I enjoyed watching the characters experience
so much of life, and the writing so well done that I felt I knew those people. I highly recommend
this book.


MikeR
5.0 out of 5 stars The love of this family for all is the overriding theme
Reviewed in the United States on September 27, 2015
Heartless fits as a description of the killer, as the second of the Raiford Chronicles series
unfolds. It does not however, describe the Reynolds extended family as they once again rise to
this exciting and harrowing encounter with yet another serial killer. The love of this family for
all is the overriding theme. A father denied his son's childhood seeks to make up for lost years,
neglect, and abuse. Ray proves his heart is big enough to include another son. Larkin the angel
can't wait to share her love with the newcomer. The investigation of the deaths of a US Senator, a
judge and others, which are at first misleading, and condemning, then focuses on the Heartless
killer. It is indeed difficult to find a stopping place as each chapter moves smoothly and teases
you into the next. Janet Taylor-Perry gets better as the Chronicles progress; can't wait to read the
next one.


Megan Fox
5.0 out of 5 stars This book is a ripper
Reviewed in Australia on July 31, 2015
The second installment in this trilogy is a ripper. The twins and their exponentially growing
families are a delight. Janet takes us deep into their lives and the love that binds them together in
times of danger. An explosive and unexpected ending tops it off with a clamor for MORE.
Janet is a new force on the publishing scene to be reckoned with.
I can't wait until I get home to start on Book 3.


Dawn Haschak
5.0 out of 5 stars Heartless
Reviewed in the United States on March 5, 2015
I really liked this book and the first one. So far, a great trilogy, I can't wait to read the third
one. Thank you again.


Crazy Grandma
5.0 out of 5 stars Actually, full of heart!
Reviewed in the United States on May 30, 2014
Although, the killer might by a bit nutty, and maybe those who died might be a bit heartless,
this story is filled with heart. Parker Reynolds is one of the most delightful characters ever
created. Even after enduring seventeen years of abuse and neglect, his heart is filled to the brim
with the capacity to love and forgive. All I know is that if the author kills Parker, well…That
would be heartless.


Joss Landry
5.0 out of 5 stars SINFULLY GRIPPING
Reviewed in Canada on April 1, 2014
Well, Ms. Taylor-Perry, I could not put this book down after the bonding of the two brothers!
I call them ‘Ray squared’. Very little sleep for me last night. Janet Taylor-Perry has a way of
weaving extraordinary stories. And she weaves and she weaves, folks … one sub-plot after
another, you never know what to expect. And I began Heartless while being familiar with the
characters having read Lucky Thirteen. I enjoyed finding out about people I have grown fond of
many years after their first adventure.
I believe this mystery sizzles as much if not more than does the first one, Lucky Thirteen.
Hard to believe all the places this story takes us to. This is why I give this book a five-star rating,
for the fact that it kept me hooked and unable to sleep all night. Well, knowing me, it takes real
talent to be able to accomplish this.
Now, in Heartless, you catch Ray, Larkin, Raif and the whole Reynolds clan in the midst of
another whirlwind adventure. And their family grows in the middle of all this upheaval … by
two more members. Well, more as you move into the book. Never was I so sad to see what came
after: “Two weeks later.” I wondered why? Then I figured this might be the means to signal a
third adventure?
You will have to read this. A MUST, MUST read!


Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Delightfully Gruesome
Reviewed in the United States on February 15, 2014
This book was a real pleasure to read. I tore through it in one day! It has a psychotic killer
hell-bent on revenge. Like the first novel in this series, this book also takes you into the lives of
the main characters, picking up where the first book left off. They're not just detectives; they're
real people. Police Chief Ray Reynolds welcomes a new member to his family, something that
could destroy him and those he loves. Although you'll probably want to read these books in
order, Ms. Taylor-Perry knows how write a sequel that can also stand on its own. All of the
characters come to life in this book with a writing style that allows you get into the hearts and
minds of everyone involved. And just wait until you read the preview of the third novel. It will
blow you away, figuratively-speaking of course. I can't wait!


Enhinti
5.0 out of 5 stars Keeps You On The Edge of Your Seat!
Reviewed in the United States on February 14, 2014
Five stars for the second installment of the Raiford Chronicles. Taylor-Perry captivates as
she forms mystery, danger and intrigue all together. This baffling crime keeps Chief Ray on his
toes. Characters are top notch; Taylor-Perry artfully creates people who we care about and cheer
for. She opens up their world for us to experience. I couldn't put it down from beginning to end.
Beautifully written! Powerful!


Melissa McGhee
5.0 out of 5 stars Just in time for my Valentine!
Reviewed in the United States on February 14, 2014
Looking for something that is just right for your lover? Give your Valentine a BLOODY
good book this holiday. This book has it all and if you haven't already, pick up the first one. You
won't want to miss any steps in this breath-taking, heart-pounding series!!


BROKEN
Viv
5.0 out of 5 stars A Book to Read
Reviewed in the United States on August 21, 2016
Author Taylor-Perry is at her best writing the Raiford Chronicles. A reader of suspense,
romance, crime, et al will enjoy this #3.


MikeR
5.0 out of 5 stars Perry deepens the readers love for her previously established characters
by once again challenging ...
Reviewed in the United States on October 2, 2015
In the third of the Raiford Chronicles, Ms. Perry deepens the readers' love for her previously
established characters by once again challenging their commitment to God, family and the law.
The Reynolds and Gautier families are attacked by a hidden killer and this time a much-loved
family member becomes a victim. A perfect time to see the stress of life and death loosen the
bonds of the love they share. Instead that love that comes directly from God is given a chance to
grow and show itself worthy. New characters are woven into the story, and the reader is drawn in
by their charm. Even in the worst of times these families remember to hate the sin and love the
sinner. Forgiveness is a theme throughout the story. A feel-good book that leaves a message that
even though evil exists in the world, all that is needed to defeat it is for good people to love
unconditionally and do the right thing. Great read. Keep on keepin', on Ms. Perry.


Megan Fox
5.0 out of 5 stars Fabulous follow-on
Reviewed in Australia on August 5, 2015
Fabulous follow-on from the first two installments. These people are so real that you pine to
be a part of this ever-growing clan. The connections that ripple through the decades are
intriguing and well thought-out. Excellent detectives, chilling demonic ties, lots of big dinners
and quite serious fatherly "chats". You can't help but love them. The characters jump from the
page, and you even start to garner a modicum of respect for the crook in the end. Janet makes the
characters jump from the page. Keep them coming, Janet, I'm absolutely hooked. Can't wait for
number 4.


Joss Landry
5.0 out of 5 stars AND THEN THERE WERE MANY ...
Reviewed in Canada on April 15, 2015
Mystery, thrills and chills, and romance in a story where you will even find blessed family
unity. Yet, what I enjoyed most within the pages of Janet Taylor-Perry’s new book, BROKEN,
third in the Raiford Chronicles series is the study of people. As a matter of fact, there shines
between the sheets of paper: my favorite genre for a novel—a character driven adventure.
Nothing more delicious than one well-written saga of people and how their lives mesh … or
don’t.
Now, to be honest, I did have to reread some of Lucky 13 and some of Heartless to remember
all the people. In fact, it might be worthwhile for the author to place family trees in the beginning
of her book with the names of the characters and all their varied roles as they grow and change.
A little like Stieg Larsson did in his Millennium Series. Helps keep everyone straight so we can
devote more time to reading.
Well the twins have not changed. Ray Reynolds and Raif Gauthier are still wonderful,
sensitive men worth spending time with. I love the challenges Perry gives them.
The reader encounters everything from loss of spouse to many, many grandchildren, and a
crazy-ass killer who happens to be the son of a former adversary, and out for revenge. I also love
the way we find out about the facts of life regarding certain friends and how forgiveness reigns
as the only way to go. This book has many positive messages that I believe the world can use:
Importance of family, by forgiving you grow bigger than who you are, and love can overcome
any challenge. Must read!


Crazy Grandma
5.0 out of 5 stars How to heal a broken heart!
Reviewed in the United States on April 14, 2015
Ms. Taylor-Perry does it again! She pulls you in and the story just won't let go. I loved the
way Ms. Taylor-Perry mends all those broken pieces until the characters are put back together,
maybe stronger than they were before. Ms. Taylor-Perry really understands heartache and how to
make her readers empathize with her characters. Always a pleasure to read.


lottie boggan
5.0 out of 5 stars Why can't Raif be real?
Reviewed in the United States on April 9, 2015
I have read all three installments of The Raiford Chronicles, and this is my favorite so far. I
cannot wait for the promised fourth book, though then I'll miss the Raifords dreadfully.
This installment tears at the heartstrings even more than the first two, but out of tragedy, new
love blossoms even stronger. There is not an emotion that this one does not touch. The characters
become real people in this saga, and you will weep and scream and laugh. Strange to say, you
will even have a modicum of affection for the villain. How Ms. Taylor-Perry manages to make
you care about the bad guy is beyond me, but more power to her. And get busy with the next
story!


Dawn Haschak
5.0 out of 5 stars Broken
Reviewed in the United States on March 27, 2015
I enjoyed all the books in this series but not the ending. I hate to be left hanging. I can't wait
for the next one.


DragonParadox
5.0 out of 5 stars A must read, check out the third book of The Raiford Chronicles.
Reviewed in the United States on February 23, 2015
Wow! This series gets better with each installment. I highly recommend Broken and the rest
of the Raiford Chronicles. Ms. Taylor-Perry's writing is excellent. Looking forward to the next
book. Now for the spoiler: out of tragedy, love blooms stronger than ever. Be prepared for
heartbreak combined with suspense and subtle humor. It's amazing how the characters in the
story become so real to the reader. Kudos to the author.


WHATEVER IT TAKES
Dot Day
4.0 out of 5 stars Trying Up Loose Ends
Reviewed in the United States on February 8, 2019
The characters of the Raiford Chronicles are neatly packaged together as their lives continue
with the next generation making their achievements and staying near to Eau Boeause as they go
far afield. This book has a little of everything as a thriller: lots of action, love interests, crime
solving. The author used several different types of crimes to maintain the reader's attention.
While this can be read as a standalone novel, the journey will be more pleasant with the others
read prior. It had been some time since I had purchased the other three and missed this one.
Whatever It Takes described well the job Scott did to bring down criminals. Great job, Janet.


Viv
4.0 out of 5 stars Enjoyable
Reviewed in the United States on July 31, 2016
From the first book in this series to this one there is a wonderful improvement in writing. The
author does a great job of continuing the story from the first book. However, I began to get
confused with the number of characters in the story that I had to flip pages back to remember
who this one or that one was. I blame that on my failure to concentrate. Anyone who reads #4
first will feel at home with the characters, as Janet makes them real. Mystery, romance, crime.
You can't beat these three.


Crazy Grandma
5.0 out of 5 stars It Takes a Lot!
Reviewed in the United States on June 24, 2016
Knowing this author personally, I know the sacrifice she's made for those she loves. I can see
so much of her in these characters. It is amazing how much one tiny piece of reality can bloom
into a well-written must-read book. Another sad ending to my reading pleasure. Bring on the
next story, Janet.


Nidia B. Hernandez
5.0 out of 5 stars Love the characters
Reviewed in the United States on January 30, 2016
What can I say? I'm sorry to see the end of this series! Every single book kept me at the edge
of my seat. Every time I predicted where the story was going, there was another twist. The writer
wrenches you in and out of the story line! Love the characters, the good and bad. Janet creates
characters that are likable and hateful as well. Creative dialogue. A favorite author!


Megan Fox
5.0 out of 5 stars Great weekend reading
Reviewed in Australia on November 2, 2015
Janet - you've done it again! A fitting 4th book for the Raiford series. Though the Raiford
twins themselves don't play as large a part in this 4th instalment, they ably pass the torch to their
younger children and Ray's wife Larkin, who keeps them in line. Great read, lots of plot twists
and a father who can't let his babies go (Ray). Well worth settling onto the couch with a nice cool
drink.
The door is open for a 5th instalment - fingers crossed - however we might need a genealogy
if these families keep growing at their current rate. Christmas dinner would certainly never be
dull.
Can't wait to see your next book, Janet.


Dawn Haschak
5.0 out of 5 stars Whatever it takes
Reviewed in the United States on June 26, 2016
I like all this author's books. This one was a little confusing, but I enjoyed it. Another must
read. I couldn't put it down.


Frank Scozzari
5.0 out of 5 stars Janet Taylor-Perry has a great writing style that gives the reader just
enough to ...
Reviewed in the United States on September 23, 2015
In a world of Southern neo-Nazis, Detective Raiford Reynolds does WHATEVER IT
TAKES to prevent fanatics from imposing their influence over a Louisiana town. Strong family
values and faith underscore this highly suspenseful 4th-in-the-series of The Raiford Chronicles.
Janet Taylor-Perry has a great writing style that gives the reader just enough to keep them
guessing, always anticipating, and surprised nevertheless at the outcome. Ray, the protagonist, is
a well-developed character. He has all the personal misgivings and family/child issues a police
detective could reasonably expect to handle, and yet maintains his moral certitude.
I read this book without the advantage of having read the three previous books in the series,
and I'll have to say it didn't matter. The book stands out nicely as a novel on its own. It had me
turning pages quickly, and when I finished, I was determined to backtrack and read the first three
books (in proper order, of course).


KING SATIN'S REALM
Crazy Grandma
5.0 out of 5 stars Fantasy Convert
Reviewed in the United States on August 7, 2016
My whole concept of dragons changed with this story. They are just people with scales. The
characters make this story. You begin to see them as real people. I bawled when Janet killed off
some of the characters. I've never been a fantasy reader, but I'm now a convert.


Wynne
5.0 out of 5 stars great read!
Reviewed in the United States on July 9, 2016
The author has created an entire world of talking animals (former humans), complete with a
good wizard, dragons and an evil witch. I didn't want to put it down! As soon as you think the
story is over, there is a new twist. I can't wait to read Part II!


Nidia B. Hernandez
5.0 out of 5 stars Phenomenal!!!
Reviewed in the United States on June 14, 2016
I was privileged to have read this way before I thought Janet Taylor-Perry would publish this.
I have read most of her books and have loved each and every one of them. I am not a "fantasy"
reader, but this book kept me interested from the very first page. What a lovely world Ms. Perry
has created! It is delightful yet dark at times. The cast of characters will become your best
friends, and you will laugh and cry throughout this well-written book. Didn't want it to end!


SPIRITS' DESIRE
Crazy Grandma
5.0 out of 5 stars Best by far!
Reviewed in the United States on August 1, 2018
I've read several things by this author, and this is by far the best story she's ever written. It
takes some kind of dedication to write two stories at once and keep them straight. I never got
confused as to which century I was in. And the characters! OMG! These people became family. I
thought I cried when Janet killed characters in the first book of the series, but I needed a whole
box of tissues for this one. And I would read it again and boo-hoo again. You have to read this
series. It is unbelievable.


Nidia B. Hernandez
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent!
Reviewed in the United States on June 26, 2018
This is the second book in The Legend of Draconis series. Like the first book, once again we
travel through history with strong characters. A story that can be dark at times. Dragons speak in
whispers and dreams as they guide the spirits of the memorable O'Rourke clan. I hope they come
back strong in the following installment. This book has it all - adventure, love and beauty. This
can almost be a historical romance. Once again, Ms. Perry brings us back into a land of fantasy
and beauty in a tale that can only be told by a great writer!


LAST OF AN EXCEPTIONAL BREED
Crazy Grandma
5.0 out of 5 stars Way More than Fantasy!
Reviewed in the United States on October 1, 2018
Fantasy? Yes! But this novel crosses so many genres it's madness. There is suspense, murder,
mystery, romance. There is something for everyone. And those beloved dragons? They are back
with a vengeance. A definite must read to continue the story of the Clan O'Rourke.


ONE WORLD
Crazy Grandma
5.0 out of 5 stars What a Way to End a Series!
Reviewed in the United States on August 4, 2021
Right in the middle of Covid, we find out that maybe the pandemic is actually "the evil
gene." Seriously! What a way to end the epic series—World War III and dragons to the rescue to
save the world and reunite with humankind. I really hate to see the end. I love these characters—
those with skin and those with scales. I am now a full fantasy convert. Thank you, Janet Taylor-
Perry.


HOMEGROWN HEALER
Crazy Grandma
5.0 out of 5 stars Who Knew?
Reviewed in the United States on November 12, 2019
Just reading the introduction to this story was an eye-opener. Who knew there were such
extreme conditions still in the United States? Janet creates more endearing characters. You really
find yourself pulling for these people to overcome their obstacles. The deep-rooted faith of the
author comes through as well. Yes, the way out of circumstances is faith and education. Way to
go, Janet, in giving your fans another must read series. Can't wait for book 2.


MOUNTAIN MOONSHINE
Crazy Grandma
5.0 out of 5 stars The Tip of the Iceberg!
Reviewed in the United States on April 1, 2023
My hillbillies are back! And, oh, boy! In the first book I wondered why Amy left Tipper.
That was just the tip of the iceberg. Now, the whole Titanic sinks. This is a must read. Your
whole perspective will be changed.


GATOR AID
Crazy Grandma
5.0 out of 5 stars What a Big Chomp!
Reviewed in the United States on June 30, 2024
This installment of my hillbillies really packs a bite! I love the way the author can examine
serious social issues and make you love her characters all at the same time. Get prepared to be
angry in this story due to a lot of injustice. Janet is a miracle worker at crafting stories of
redemption, repentance, and revenge.


WILTED MAGNOLIAS
Crazy Grandma
5.0 out of 5 stars Beautifully Crafted!
Reviewed in the United States on November 11, 2017
This story is beautifully crafted from the amazing cover to the climax and dénouement. The
cover itself is absolutely breathtaking. And I love the growth (though she still has a way to go) of
April from coming off as a spoiled brat to coming into her own as a competent reporter and
woman. I can't wait to see what she uncovers in the next installment of this series.


Dot Day
5.0 out of 5 stars Janet is full of surprises!
Reviewed in the United States on May 10, 2017
I vacillated between four and five stars and decided on five because it is a well-written,
suspenseful book with a realistic plot. The characters are well-drawn and realistic, even to the
corruption found in small town politics. it is deserving of five stars for those reasons. However, it
is written for a younger audience, and I am an older audience of one. I prefer less physical
intimacy and slower strolls in the books I typically read. Young adults will love this book as well
as Taylor-Perry's other Raiford Chronicles (those characters are a little older and more mature-
seemingly).


Joss Landry
5.0 out of 5 stars Vintage Taylor Perry. Intriguing and sizzling with warmth!
Reviewed in Canada on May 4, 2017
Vintage Taylor-Perry. Intriguing and sizzling with warmth!
I picked up this book curious about the story behind wilted magnolias. I never like anything
to be wilted, whether it be flowers or people. In fact, this is one of the reasons I don’t like cut
flowers in the house—too sad when they die.
Well, although the flowers are the gentle heroes of the story, the adventures and devious
turns this story takes are nothing for an innocent little flower to learn. True to form, Janet Taylor-
Perry brings you on a rollercoaster of emotions, a ride in which you will need to hold on for dear
life.
There are many characters, from April McDougal Chastain to Russel Dalton to Russel Bear. I
loved them all. Some are quite endearing, Drew Patterson and Chase Pickens for instance, and
the list goes on
All of them leave you with a residue of friendship and a taste for knowing more about what is
going on in their lives. Wonder what they’re doing this week? As I said at the beginning, this
novel is characteristic of Janet Taylor-Perry’s stories.


Retired Teacher
5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful! This book has it all for a great read.
Reviewed in the United States on January 2, 2017
Wilted Magnolias was on my wish list and my son got it for me. I finished reading it
yesterday and was not disappointed! This book is as great as the Raiford Chronicles. Janet can
really weave a story!


DragonParadox
5.0 out of 5 stars Wow! Wow! Wow!
Reviewed in the United States on December 1, 2016
Wilted Magnolias has something for everybody. It has appeal that knows no boundary—no
gender, race, age (over 13) bias. Beyond that, it also raises social awareness about cancer
survivors and what they endure.
The story has some likable and some unlikely heroes. April and Russell burn up the pages
with just enough "steam" without becoming raunchy. And the antagonist is someone I just
wanted to climb into the pages and strangle.
I'm not much of a writer, but this book makes me want more—and there's a promise for just
that with a second April Chastain Intrigue in the works. I can't wait!


HEAD COUNT
Crazy Grandma
5.0 out of 5 stars Wow! Just Wow!
Reviewed in the United States on March 23, 2020
Just how many heads did I count? I never knew counting heads could be so intriguing. LOL.
This story just zoomed along. And just when I thought the culprit was caught—the tension revs
up and goes all the way to the State Department. I almost lost my own head at that twist. Wow!
Is the best description I can give.


Justin Sullivan
5.0 out of 5 stars This is an amazing read
Reviewed in the United States on March 17, 2020
I’ve never been hooked by a book this well written. I only set this book down to cook dinner.
It got delivered at 4 this afternoon and it is now 12:30 and I finally put it down cause I finished
it. I tried putting it down to extend the read, but I couldn’t. I needed to know what happened to
detective McGill and Laura Beth next.


JRA06
5.0 out of 5 stars Fun and intriguing.
Reviewed in the United States on March 10, 2020
I loved reading this book. There is plenty of action and the characters all made me have
feelings and opinions about them. When I thought I knew where the story was going it took only
a few pages later to prove me wrong.
All in all, a very enjoyable read and well worth the time!


Dot Day
5.0 out of 5 stars Be Careful Where You Count
Reviewed in the United States on February 19, 2020
Timely mystery and method of falling into a mystery—just use your spare time working as a
census worker. Laura Beth cannot leave this mystery alone because the one responsible does not
want her alive. An enjoyable novel and first in a series. Keep them coming, Ms. Taylor-Perry.


AIN'T NO MOUNTAIN
Crazy Grandma
5.0 out of 5 stars Delightful Detour
Reviewed in the United States on July 1, 2020
I am a die-hard Janet Taylor-Perry fan. I was pleasantly surprised by this delightful detour
from her more adult writing to a YA fantasy. The triplets are so much fun, and very much like
siblings with bickering (but nobody else is allowed to hurt one of them). I am anxious to see
where their quests take them.


UNFORGETTABLE CHRISTMASES
Crazy Grandma
3.5.0 out of 5 stars 50/50
Reviewed in the United States on December 23, 2021
Some lovely stories and some so-so writing. I am brutally honest. Ms. Cheatham's writing is
adequate, but not really compelling, except the story about her grandmother, which I found
touching. Ms. Underwood's stories—well, let's just call it nepotism and leave it there. Ms.
Boggan's stories tear at every emotion and are well-written. Ms. Taylor-Perry's stories are
delightful and make you fume, laugh, and cry.


TALES FROM THE DRAGON'S LAIR
Crazy Grandma
5.0 out of 5 stars Trick and Treat
Reviewed in the United States on October 6, 2023
This anthology is filled with tricks and treats. Every story and poem is dynamic, but my
favorite story is by far "Granny" by Marty Roppelt. It is just downright creepy. The cover art and
interior art shows great talent. I look forward to more stories by these people.


HOLIDAY HEARTH
Crazy Grandma
5.0 out of 5 stars Yummy
Reviewed in the United States on November 20, 2023
I positively loved most of the stories and poems in this collection. It's really hard to choose a
favorite, but "Illusion, Epiphany, Proclamation" might touch every emotional chord. I found the
pictures and cover art quaint and creative—a far cry from the norm. Maybe the authors can give
us readers stories for every holiday.