Author Ray Blackston’s books entertain me. They also challenge me in unexpected ways. While some of his characters believe in God, they aren’t copycat Christians unless they are A Pagan’s Nightmare! (check that one out for sure!)

Last Mango in Texas cracked me up – Blackston has a way of getting me to laugh at myself. Sheesh.

While not the main character, Chang is my favorite in this bumpy romantic adventure from the oil fields of Texas to the oil slicks of Alaska then on to France and Kenya.

The author enters the “green verses oil” arena and shows the inconsistencies on both sides. I like that in a book – no one is perfect and the causes we support are only as good as their supporters. No easy answers are given by the way, but the author allows the reader to think it through and reach his or her own conclusions. The book shares this issue as a discussion. Very refreshing.

The romance angle caused me to grin too. Instead of the guy rescuing the girl, Kyle Mango is rescued by Gretchen and his ego isn’t damaged. His fascination with her is so great, his insecurities (and he has plenty!) are not as important as his discoveries. 

While I enjoyed Kyle Mango as the main character, my real favorites were Chang and Sam. I found myself glad when either this young Korean or this old New York bookie stepped on to the pages. And wait until you find out who Bullion Betty is! I was surprised and delighted. Ray Blackston knows his characters and she fits this story perfectly.

If you’re looking for a fun read with serious undertones but no preaching – check this guy’s writing out. Teens and young adults will enjoy his books too.

So far, if he’s written it, I want to read it.

As a writer, I enjoy his humor, the clear “voices” he gives his characters, and the funky plots. 

You can learn more about the author and his books at:  www.rayblackston.com