Book Review My Brother Eric

 BOOK REVIEW

This contemporary western novel embraces the heart of what it means to be a family plus navigating the challenges of running a cattle ranch. The family dynamics are ever-evolving with the addition of foster care children into the home as each one seeks to find their place. “My Brother Eric” by Mary Trimble follows the life of the cattle ranching Cahill family in Eastern Washington. The family made their first appearance in one of Trimble's earlier books “Maureen.”

Under Trimble's deft hands, an engaging heartwarming story unfolds that will tug at your heartstrings. Teenager Eric Buckley finds himself in a homeless situation when his foster parents have to move. Eric is unwilling to make another move and is determined to finish out his last year at Chewack high school. His life takes an unexpected turn when an opportunity arises to live with ranchers Maureen and John Cahill's family. They open their hearts and home to Eric where over time he learns discipline, and hard work and finds a sense of belonging.  A discovery of cattle rustling on their property prompts swift action with an unexpected turn of events. The Cahills' lives become more complicated with the addition of another foster child, Logan, age eight, who struggles to adjust to the family routine and life on a ranch. John Cahill, patriarch, and his wife Maureen provide experiences that encourage core family values of respect, love, responsibility, and resilience.

The storyline reads smoothly and the cast of characters is fully developed and relatable. I particularly liked all the authentic details of what it would be like to live on a cattle ranch. Trimble provides an uplifting story for readers wanting to hear more about the Cahill Ranch life. 

ALL ABOUT THE AUTHOR MARY TRIMBLE

https://www.marytrimblebooks.com/

Mary E. Trimble, an award-winning novelist, lives with her husband on Camano Island, Washington. Their family, most of whom live in the Northwest, play an important role in their lives.     Mary’s four previous contemporary western novels have met with enthusiastic acclaim. She is also the author of two memoirs, Sailing with Impunity: Adventure in the South Pacific, and Tubob: Two Years in West Africa with the Peace Corps, and has been a frequent guest speaker to groups interested in those topics.