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Trials and Trails Book Review & Giveaway

Book Title: Trials and Trails by Jim Halverson
Category: Adult Fiction, 276 pages
Genre: Western, Historical Fiction
I received a complimentary copy of this book for use in my review.  
All opinions are my own.

About the Book

With a past of slavery and compliance, LeRoy has learned to pick his battles carefully. Johnny B, a quick-tempered Sioux, is still learning to control his anger. When dangerous circumstances bond them together, the pair learn to navigate Reconstruction Era America and all its prejudices. They save an innocent man from hanging, reunite two old friends, assist in an honorable death for an elder Indian, and discover their worth as they steadily assimilate self-respect into their lives.

From Jim Halverson’s debut novel comes a tale of adventure, purpose, and the pursuit of self-actualization. Cowboys and psychology ride hand in hand, traveling a journey from living life on the edge to finding a place of belonging, joy, vulnerability, and distinction. Through trials along their trails, LeRoy and Johnny B transform people they meet, brand the world a better place, and reap the benefits.

My Review

Trials and Trails Engages Readers from the First Page.  The author has a very "slow and easy" writing style--but, yet, one that pulls reader hearts and spirits into the pages from the very beginning.  As his characters slowly make their way through their journey--readers easily adapt to the pace and the flow of the storyline.  While the novel is full of mini-stories and mini-adventures--the author's approach isn't one of action-packed, old-West style scenes.  Instead, Halverson holds readers tightly with stories of conflict and challenges that present little bursts of light in the dust and harsh West.

Trials and Trails is more than a Western.   While the author sets his story in a challenging environment and period for his starring characters and he creates a strong Western-style setting--he offers much more in this novel.  Each trial or adventure encountered brings the characters the opportunities to open hearts and minds--and discover a little bit about himself at the same time.

Would I recommend Trials and Trails by Jim Halverson? 
Growing up, I remember my grandparents reading many, many Westerns and historical fiction books.  They enjoyed the typical good vs. evil style stories--and always wanted the good guys to win.  This book allows the characters to face the cruel realities of the period--but, gives them the ability to find and create something good from each adventure.  Readers seeking a historical Western filled with acts of kindness (dotted with some period specific meanness) and a general feeling of positivity--I would encourage you to pick up this book.  I looked forward to the development and outcome of each new adventure the men encountered on the trail--and I enjoyed the perspectives they offered and the lessons taught along the way.    All in all, the book deals with some sensitive topics--but, does so in a clean manner that allows readers to focus on the goodness of the stories. 

To read more reviews, please follow the tour on Jim Halverson's page on iRead Book Tours.


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Meet the Author:



Jim Halverson grew up in the rural, gold-mining town of Mokelumne Hill, CA and received his MBA from Golden Gate University. He spent part of his life on a ranch and is an avid student of psychology. He recognizes the struggles of all men and women seeking equality and respect. Jim and his wife, Gail, spend their time traveling from their small farm in Forestville, CA.

Connect with the Author: Website ~ Facebook

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Ends April 5, 2019


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