This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. A Friend Of Mr. Lincoln

   

   Set against the backdrop of pre-Civil War America, this historical novel delves into the formative years of a young Abraham Lincoln, exploring his friendships, ambitions, and the personal struggles that shaped him into a future leader. The narrative weaves through Lincoln's early political career, his complex relationships, and the vibrant, often tumultuous world of 19th-century Illinois. Through the eyes of a fictional close friend, the story captures the essence of Lincoln's character, his wit, and the moral dilemmas he faced as he navigated the path to greatness.

2. 2. The Leopard Is Loose

   

   Set in the post-World War II era, the story unfolds through the eyes of a young boy named Grady McClarty, who lives in Oklahoma City. The narrative captures the essence of childhood innocence and the complexities of family dynamics against the backdrop of a community gripped by fear when a leopard escapes from the local zoo. As the city becomes engulfed in panic, Grady navigates his own personal challenges, including the absence of his father and the presence of his war-hero uncle, while the escaped leopard becomes a metaphor for the unpredictability and chaos of life. The tale is a poignant exploration of growing up, the bonds of family, and the impact of fear on a community.

3. 3. The Gates Of The Alamo

   

   Set against the backdrop of the Texas Revolution, this historical novel intricately weaves the lives of three central characters: Edmund McGowan, a botanist seeking new plant species; Mary Mott, a resilient innkeeper; and her son, Terrell. As their paths converge, they become embroiled in the tumultuous events leading up to the legendary Battle of the Alamo. Through vivid storytelling, the narrative explores themes of courage, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of freedom, capturing the human spirit amidst the chaos and brutality of war. The novel paints a rich tapestry of the era, blending historical facts with compelling personal stories.

4. 4. Aransas

   

   Set against the backdrop of the Texas Gulf Coast, this evocative narrative explores the life of a young man grappling with the complexities of adulthood and the haunting memories of his past. As he navigates the intricate dynamics of love, loss, and self-discovery, he finds himself drawn to the enigmatic world of a dolphin-training facility, where the boundaries between human and animal, freedom and captivity, blur. Through richly detailed prose and poignant introspection, the story delves into themes of redemption, the search for identity, and the enduring power of nature to heal and transform.
5. 5. Remember Ben Clayton

   

   Set in the early 20th century, this poignant narrative explores the intricate dynamics of grief, art, and redemption. The story follows a renowned sculptor, Lamar Clayton, who is commissioned to create a statue in memory of a young soldier killed in World War I. As he delves into the project, he becomes entwined with the soldier's family, uncovering layers of sorrow, secrets, and the enduring impact of loss. Through evocative prose and rich character development, the tale examines the healing power of art and the enduring human spirit in the face of tragedy.

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