Anasazi Gold, a Philo Hodgdon Adventure by John P. Manz

John Manz is a new member of readsouthwest.com. We're very happy to have him here. This first novel has all the rambuctious, creative energy you might expect from a first-time male author who is deeply interested in Anasazi and Hopi culture, as well as martial arts and the rollicking standby's of sex and violence. Protagonist Philo Hodgdon takes us on a roller coaster of experience from life-changing spiritual visitations to the greed for gold and power. Buckle up before read this book and enjoy the ride!

From Calcutta with Love -The World War II Letters of Richard and Reva Beard

Author Elaine Pinkerton is a founding member of readsouthwest.com. She has written some wonderful books and this one is particularly touching. Her father was an Army psychologist in the China-Burma-India theater of World War II. Hundreds of letters between Richard and his wife Reva were preserved and Elaine carefully chose the best of these letters. The love between these two people is deep and beautifully expressed, as are poignant experiences on both sides. There is humour as well. I just opened to Richard's story of going up in a bomber plane with some buddies, apparently as an escape from boredom, and one of the engines dies! Richard has no idea how to even put a parachute on but he makes a valiant effort, only to discover that the engine comes back on and the pilot is playing a joke!

I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in expanding their knowledge of World War II, especially in the almost forgotten China-Burma-India theater. On a purely personal side, the love letters are absolutely inspiring. Please consider reading From Calcutta with Love -The World War II Letters of Richard and Reva Beard