yet more praise....

[jamesleeburke]

Thanks, Lonnie, for the good words. I'm happy you enjoyed the novel. Catch some big bass at Henderson Swamp.

Best,

Jim

[ConCiamp]

"...at sunset, the sky turned to turquoise; then the strips of black cloud along the horizon were backlit by a red brilliance that was like the glow of a forge, as though the cooling of the day were about to be set into abeyance so the sun'...s heat could prevail through the night into the following dawn."
Page 3, "Rain Gods."


Who else but JLB writes like this? I knew I was in for a ride.
My husband and I were on vacation, sitting by the side of Newfound Lake in NH. I'd read a page or two of "Rain Gods," from time to time close the book, raise my head and look across the lake and at the mountains. I'd let thoughts of the beautifully constructed sentences flow through my head, engulfed in the wonder and the beauty that I beheld...and held in my heart and soul.

No one else but JLB can write villains or miscreants who still have a soul, heroes who are deeply flawed and so fully human, with whom, despite their violence, we can identify.

I have to admit to having a special place in my heart for Dave Robicheaux, but it was great to read of what has become of Hackberry Holland, so bedeviled by his past wrongdoing and always, always striving for goodness, constantly seeking the better part of his nature.

One of the greatest joys of reading JLB's books is that he obviously likes women. His female characters are smart, savvy, strong, supportive, loved and loving. Welcome, Pam Tibbs. I look forward to seeing more of her.
Jim, you never disappoint.
Thank you.

Connie Ciampanelli

[jamesleeburke]

Thanks a million, Connie. That's a great review. Can we get it on the side of Mount Rushmore?

Best,

Jim

[ConCiamp]

Thank you Jim, you are always so gracious.

The interview with Alafair was wonderful. Her questions were great and it's always a pleasure to hear your replies. What a special treat to have it on a video so we could see you as well!

I was able to listen to the NPR "Morning Edition" interview on Tuesday. It was a particular joy to hear you read your own work. Because I love reading so much, I have never listened to a book read, but I hear Will Patton does an excellent job with your material. I may take a shot.

Oh, my husband bought me a DVD of "In the Electric Mist." Though of course it doesn't even touch the level of the book, it was not bad, better than I expected, though for someone who hadn't read it, it might be "gappy." Tommy Lee Jones is a masterstroke of casting. He is a strong enough actor to capture the nuances of Dave's multi-layered and incredibly complex personality. I have to say I always picture you as Dave, and after seeing the video interview, I think you and he look very alike.

Of course, like everyone else who so enjoys your work, I look forward to the next Dave Robicheaux book.
(I was going to say "I can't wait" but I'm trying to banish that phrase. I don't want to wish my life away).

Warm Regards,
Connie Ciampanelli
Rhode Island

[jamesleeburke]

Thanks again, Connie. I hope there will be more films.

All the best,

Jim

[cambalu]

Rain Gods is an extraordinarily beautiful book in it's imagery. Not a page goes by
that the reader is not transported to the scene, tasting and feeling the air and dust
and wind and sun, chill of night. The depth of characters, bone and sinew, thought
and desire, is a work of art. Long may Jim Burke create his masterpieces.

Marjorie

[jamesleeburke]

Thanks, Marjorie.

Best,

Jim

[jbenham]

The Preacher may have just moved to the top of my Favorite Bad Guy list!

[jamesleeburke]

Thanks, J. I have a feeling Preacher will be back.

Best,

Jim

[Yvonna]

JLB, you have been my favorite author for years, I eagerly await all your new novels, & am honored to read them. Thanks for all of them. Yvonna)