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. The Night Always Comes

   

   Set against the backdrop of a rapidly gentrifying Portland, this poignant narrative follows Lynette, a young woman on the brink of losing everything she holds dear. As she navigates the complexities of her family's financial struggles, Lynette is driven by a desperate hope to secure a better future for herself and her mentally challenged brother. The story delves into themes of economic disparity, familial loyalty, and the relentless pursuit of the American Dream, painting a vivid picture of the lengths one will go to in order to escape the clutches of poverty and find a place to call home.

2. 2. Lean On Pete

   

   Set against the backdrop of the American West, this poignant coming-of-age story follows a fifteen-year-old boy named Charley Thompson as he embarks on a journey of survival and self-discovery. After moving to Portland with his neglectful father, Charley finds solace in a rundown racetrack where he befriends a worn-out racehorse named Lean on Pete. When circumstances take a tragic turn, Charley is left to navigate a harsh and unforgiving world, relying on his resilience and the unlikely companionship of the horse. Through his quest for belonging and a place to call home, Charley's tale explores themes of loneliness, hope, and the enduring human spirit.

3. 3. The Motel Life

   

   Set against the backdrop of the desolate landscapes of Reno, Nevada, this poignant tale follows the lives of two down-and-out brothers, Frank and Jerry Lee, as they navigate a series of unfortunate events. After a tragic accident involving Jerry Lee, the brothers find themselves on the run, grappling with guilt, desperation, and the harsh realities of their transient existence. Through a series of flashbacks and vivid storytelling, the narrative delves into themes of brotherhood, loss, and the pursuit of redemption, painting a raw and heartfelt portrait of individuals striving to find meaning amidst chaos.

4. 4. Don't Skip Out On Me

   

   Set against the vast, rugged landscapes of the American West, this poignant novel follows the journey of a young man named Horace Hopper, who is determined to prove his worth by becoming a professional boxer. Raised on a sheep ranch in Nevada by a loving but aging couple, Horace struggles with his mixed heritage and a deep-seated sense of inadequacy. As he embarks on a quest to redefine his identity and escape his perceived limitations, Horace encounters the harsh realities of the world outside his rural upbringing. The story explores themes of identity, belonging, and the relentless pursuit of dreams, all while capturing the quiet beauty and melancholy of the human spirit.
5. 5. The Free

   

   Set against the backdrop of a struggling American town, the narrative weaves together the lives of three individuals grappling with their own personal battles. A night watchman, a nurse, and a young runaway each face their own challenges, from financial hardship to the scars of war and the search for belonging. Their stories intersect in unexpected ways, revealing the resilience of the human spirit and the power of compassion and connection in the face of adversity. Through their intertwined journeys, the novel paints a poignant picture of hope and redemption amidst life's trials.

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6. 6. Northline

   

   Set against the backdrop of Reno, Nevada, this poignant narrative follows the journey of Allison Johnson, a young woman grappling with the aftermath of an abusive relationship and her own self-doubt. As she seeks solace and a fresh start, Allison encounters a series of compassionate strangers who offer her glimpses of hope and redemption. Through a blend of introspective moments and vivid storytelling, the tale explores themes of resilience, the search for belonging, and the quiet strength found in unexpected friendships.

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