Review of Baja Silver

[Kajori Sheryl Paul]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Baja Silver" by Timothy Brown.]

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3 out of 4 stars

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A lot of us go about our normal lives blissfully unaware of the dark underbelly of our cities. More often than not, we voluntarily unsee the drug-addled or mentally challenged homeless people roaming around the streets. Sometimes, we donate some money thinking that we have done our bit. We seldom think about bringing real change.

In Timothy A. Brown's Baja Silver, Sam White sincerely works to make a difference in the lives of countless homeless and unfortunate people. Sam and his colleagues in the St. Francis Village in Sacramento truly care about the people they serve. Hundreds of people flock to St. Francis Village every day in the hopes of food and shelter. TommyLynn and Dani Blue also find themselves in need of Sam's help after a particularly jarring incident. TommyLynn had decided to risk her life by saving a young streetwalker, Dani Blue, from the hands of her pimp, Markus. Dani was a complete stranger to TommyLynn. Yet, she took it upon herself to protect the lonely young lady at all costs. Different circumstances put Sam, Dani, and TommyLynn in the beautiful country of Mexico. Sam and his wife, Sheila, had decided to take a trip to Mexico to enjoy a long due vacation. Sam was excited to meet his long-lost friend, Juice. Little did they know that they were all set on a path filled with adventure, action, and retribution.

Would TommyLynn be able to save Dani? How would Sam White help the two young adults? Would he be able to enjoy his reunion with Juice? What does Mexico have in store for them?

Baja Silver is the second novel in the Sam White Homeless Mysteries series. Although it is the second book, it can easily be read as a stand-alone novel. Brown seamlessly integrates details about the first book and entices his readers to give it a try as well. Divided into two parts, the book keeps the reader engaged till the very end.

I must say that Baja Silver is a novel that has almost everything for everyone. The book takes us on a ride from the dark underbelly of Sacramento to the beautiful ranches in Loreto. The vivid writing style takes us on diving trips to experience the beauty of marine life. I could feel the astonishment experienced by Juice and Sam when they came across gigantic octopuses and seawolves. The author also takes us on a mule expedition with Sheila and Bella to view the ancient paintings. Being a history buff, I was truly moved by the descriptions of the awe felt by the ladies as they contemplated the lives of ancient people. I have to mention that the author marvelously brings alive the beauty of the sky and the sea with his poetic words. It is worth mentioning that this does not slow the pace of the novel. We are constantly on our toes praying that everything works out for the protagonists.

Sam White is truly admirable. He is selfless to the core. I loved his bond with Juice and Sheila. Juice and Sam had gone on drastically different paths a long time ago. Yet, their friendship had stood the test of time. It was fun to see the two friends reminiscing. The way they found their way out of unexpected situations was a treat to watch. They always had each other's backs. I liked how Sheila easily bonded with Juice's wife, Bella. TommyLynn was truly admirable. She did not shy away from her sexuality. In fact, she went out of her way to help teens from the LGBTQ community. Her bond with Dani is adorable. Dani had nobody in the world. Her tragic past had led her down a path from which she thought there was no return. Meeting TommyLynn changed her life. I have to mention that I truly liked TommyLynn's grandmother, Marta, and granduncle, Gerardo, despite their relatively short presence. Their simple way of life made me introspect.

Timothy A. Brown's novel is not a book simply about a treasure hunt. He portrays the risks and dangers that come when one accidentally uncovers some valuable treasure. In addition to this, he talks about myriad socially relevant issues. The growing concerns of corruption, runaway teens, prostitution, drugs, homelessness, and gender inequality are depicted in a simple and interesting manner. Brown makes us understand that with relentless efforts, we can all make a difference.

Baja Silver is a must-read for history buffs, adventurers, and people who like reading about treasure hunts. Nature lovers and people who like a bit of romance in their books would enjoy this as well. I recommend this novel to anyone and everyone. This fast-paced novel keeps the reader hooked till the very end. It deserves a perfect rating. However, there were more than ten punctuation and other minor errors. Hence, I rate this book 3 out of 4 stars.

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Baja Silver
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[Collins Maina 4]

It's remarkable I find Sam's character to be very interesting as he is bent on helping people face the challenges they have

[Amy Luman]

I try not to start a series anywhere but at the beginning, although I accidentally have and it turned out great. I really like what Sam is trying to do by helping those who are less fortunate than himself. I hope that he and TommyLynn can help Dani without bringing trouble on themselves and those they love.

[Oluwapelumi Rachael]

While we are busy living our lives, we often forget that there are so many helpless people out on the streets! This book really inspired me to be more intentional towards helping others. Great review

[Sopulu Ezidimma]

I love how Sam White works to make a difference in the lives of homeless people not just doing the normal thing. I see tbis as a great inspiration on my path sincerely. Thanks for your review

[ellimctreph]

Nothing like an unassuming book to hit you with a dose of reality. Great review.

[Ajay Rudrapati]

I am very much awaited to read this book, Your review motivated me to read this book ASAP. The way you inculcated the details of the book in a very clear manner is impressive. Thank you