* From the director of Montgomery/Floyd Libraries about Union, WV

Note: The Montgomery/Floyd library system bought two copies of the book.  I received this note 5 weeks later from the library director:

We entered the record for Union, WV (five weeks ago).  Both copies are currently checked out, have circulated 4 x each and there is a hold on the title.  Way to go!

* From John in South Carolina, about Union, WV

Mike, just finished the book last night (VERY late last night), Couldn't put it down. Great story! I can't imagine the amount of research that went into this! I actually teared up at the end!

I think this book is BEST SELLER quality, as good as ANY historical fiction I have ever read (and I read a lot). This is REALLY GOOD.

* From Morris in Rocky Mount, about Union, WV

I have been meaning to drop you a line all week but have been up to my nose in ads, stories, pics, etc. Great job with the book!!!!!! I picked it up one evening and then couldn't put it down. I get up at 4 a.m. and I was reading until the last minute before my absolute self-inflicted deadline  "to get ready" for work. I enjoyed the "cheesy" first part, as you described it and wondered how you were going to tie this all in and you did it nicely!!! I'm not a real Civil War buff but it has always held my interest. I "saw" your characters and absolutely loved the way you ended it. Too cool!

As I drew closer to the end of the book, not wanting it to end, I thought to myself he can't wrap it all up with these few remaining pages. I was almost afraid to keep reading because I thought it was going  to leave me hanging. As I said great job!

* From Charlie in Illinois, about The Spine of the Virginias

I wanted to let you know that I am VERY much enjoying my journey thru The Spine of the Virginias!

I have had the good fortune to travel thru and visit many of the places you write so eloquently about.

Reading how the mountains often define the character of a given area raised a question in my mind: are the Blue Ridge Mountains a part of the Appalachia Mountain chain or are they distinct?

Every day I put in about 10 hours relentlessly ferreting out job opportunities in this area. It can sometimes be a daunting task, but I know that at the end of every day I have a special treat waiting. I reward my diligence with reading more of The Spine! There is serenity in your words Mike. I look forward to them every day.

Thanks for allowing me this pleasure. It is rare and cherished.