About this item
Pairing extensive research with a brilliance for reviving the past in gripping narrative, Spur Award-winning author Mike Blakely has penned an epic, historical novelization of the Mexican-American War in A Sinister Splendor1845. Texas joins the union. Mexico threatens war over the disputed Texas border. But much more than the Rio Grande Valley lies at stake -- expansionists dream of an America that sprawls all the way to the Pacific Coast. Can a conflict with an already war-torn Mexico satisfy this lust for territory? President James K. Polk sends troops the Texas border to test Mexico's appetite for war. General Zachary Taylor, known as "Old Rough and Ready," leads the invasion south. A 24-year-old lieutenant named Ulysses S. Grant gets his first taste of battle.
About the Author
Author Mike Blakely has published 18 books released by major New York City publishers. His most recent release "A Song to Die For," is receiving great reviews. Two of his latest books were co-writes, one with Willie Nelson, the other with Kenny Rogers.As a singer/songwriter, Mike has released 11 CDs, performed all over the U.S., and has made 16 tours to Europe. His songs have been recorded by Gary P. Nunn, Red Steagall, Flaco Jimenez and Raul Malo, john Arthur martinez, Randy Brown, Geronimo Trevino III and Johnny Rodriguez, Johnny Bush, Pauline Reese, and others. He is currently at work on his next CD with planned release for Fall 2015.View Mike's schedule of appearances and learn more about him by visiting www.mikeblakely.com or 'like' Mike Blakely's Official Fan Page on Facebook.A native Texan, Mike served in the U.S. Air Force and later earned a bachelors degree in journalism from the University of Texas at Austin. He released his first novel 1988 and his first CD in 1995. One of his co-written tunes landed on a Grammy Award-winning album by Flaco Jimenez in 1995. Another was played on the orbiting International Space Station in 2007.Mike is a two-time winner of Western Writers of America's Spur Award - once for best western novel of the year, and once for best western song of the year. Mike spent many years touring with his dancehall band, but now plays more shows as a solo artist, or in a duo or trio configuration at listening rooms, house concerts, festivals, and private parties. His career as a novelist leads to many non-traditional concerts at book stores, libraries, writers conferences, and book clubs."Having celebrated our house concert anniversary with the seventh show by Mike, we can only attest that it just keeps getting better and better! I'll personally guarantee it to be one of the musical highlights of your life!" ~ Paula Reynolds, Hilltop House Concerts, Kerrville, TX."Blakely is a consummate artist whose superb ability to capture an audience only serves to highlight his songwriting skills... which approach brilliance." - Buddy Case, "The Loft," Enola, AK"Mike helped us establish our restaurant as a major music venue in the Hill Country of Texas. He has produced a weekly concert series for us for over eight years, consistently packing the house show after show. We have been named "Best Live Music Venue" four years in a row thanks to his efforts. He is an established talent, a huge asset to our business and a real pro." Paul Brady, owner/mgr. River City Grille, Marble Falls, TX.
