***** Friends Take Care of Friends Review by Rox Burkey
Author Karen Black brings together the story of life in a small mountain community. Annie and George have a failing marriage because George is abusive. Annie adores her animals and her home in the mountains. She is particularly attuned to her horse, Czar
This action-packed tale is filled with vivid descriptions of the environment and character interactions. Author Black uses an economy of words to convey her powerful account. A perfect example of her well-written prose is provided below.
“With her head pounding and her vision blurred, she pulled her arm backward, unsuccessful in her attempt to pull it from his grasp, and thought, “If I don’t get away, this time he is going to kill me.”
He hit her again. Her teeth punctured her lip and the familiar coppery taste of blood filled her mouth. She jerked her arm back and twisted away, breaking his grip. Somehow she got to her feet and sprinted down the steps toward the road. He was right behind her.
In three long leaps, she was across the dirt road, past the fenced paddock and into the woods. Vaguely aware of a sharp pain in her shoulder, she was focused on the heavy steps that pounded close behind her. Running as fast as she could, she felt like she was slowing down and imagined she could feel his breath on her neck. He was strong, and he could run, but she was faster, at least she had been before she was five months pregnant.”
Annie’s childhood friend, Rob Tully, is the local vet. Annie calls for his support with her animals, especially Czar, her horse. Their relationship is connected like a family without anything official. They seem to know one another and click on an undefined level. This is a riveting story of friendship and a justice that one cannot always find in the lawbooks.
I enjoy the short stories of this author and heartily recommend this one. Additionally, you will be teased with a bit of her novel, Race Into Murder-another excellent read.
About the Author
Karen Black lives in the eastern United States with her husband and various critters, wild and domestic. Hobbies include herb gardening, wildlife watching, and winemaking, though all are put on hold when she’s caught up in a story. With a lifelong affection for animals, a fascination with the supernatural, and a background in criminal justice, the author draws on experience as well as imagination to create stories that are believable, unique, and entertaining. Expect the unexpected.
Find and Follow Karen
