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Smoke Tree Mystery #7
Walks Always Beside You
After eight years in the United States Army, Johnny Quentin, who joined in 1961 on the buddy system with his friend Charlie Merriman, has returned to Smoke Tree without Charlie. Johnny intends to stop only long enough to pay his respects to Charlie's widow and his mother, but Webster Charles, the oldest man in the Mojave Village and the strongest link to the tribe's cultural heritage, has other plans for Johnny. Once those plans are revealed, Johnny stays to honor Charlie Merriman's last that Johnny be more than a godfather to the slain soldier's twin sons. Nothing is easy for Johnny, a former Army Ranger followed by his dead and tortured by demons and memories of Vietnam. At the same time, Captain Carlos Caballo, commander of the Smoke Tree Substation of the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, is trying to trace the killer of a string of bodies abandoned in the desert. The mysterious and reclusive Chemehuevi Joe also wants to find the killer, but for his own reasons. Circumstances will bring the three men together in the search.
- GenresFiction
413 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 16, 2020
About the author
Gary J. George
34 books99 followersGary George spent his teenage years in Needles, California, and his Smoke Tree novels are set in the Mojave Desert of the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. Gary was blessed with a long and happy marriage to his beloved, Ginny Boyd, author of the book "Birdy Bird." When Ginny died in January 2018, Gary could not write for a while. However, during a seventy-mile backpacking trip across the desert from the Colorado River to the middle of the Mojave National Preserve in May of that year, he began to come to terms with her death. When he returned home, he discovered that immersing himself in his writing allowed him a few hours of relief from sadness, and he began work on "The Carnival, The Cross, and the Burning Desert."
In 2024, Gary was diagnosed with four severely blocked arteries in his heart and underwent open-heart surgery at Loma Linda University Medical Center. He wrote a book about his experience and recovery, "Out of the Cabbage (CABG) Patch," while concurrently working on the twelfth novel in the Smoke Tree series, "Mojave Desert Jezebeth," which was published in July of 2025. The thirteenth book in the Smoke Tree Series, "Desert Resurrection," was published on April 2, 2026.
In 2024, Gary was diagnosed with four severely blocked arteries in his heart and underwent open-heart surgery at Loma Linda University Medical Center. He wrote a book about his experience and recovery, "Out of the Cabbage (CABG) Patch," while concurrently working on the twelfth novel in the Smoke Tree series, "Mojave Desert Jezebeth," which was published in July of 2025. The thirteenth book in the Smoke Tree Series, "Desert Resurrection," was published on April 2, 2026.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
February 25, 2026
I liked the book. It picks up where The House of Three Murders leaves off, and wraps up everything nicely. Only bad thing is the Audible version, which uses a very bad text to voice translator. It sounds like it predates AI.
February 8, 2023
I hear you. You you you
Take home message: best book of the series. As a Vietnam-era veteran (means I was in the Army during the Vietnam war era, but was not sent there), I empathize with the plight of Johnny Quentin who fought & endured the tragedies of that war. The late chapter that describes his experience fighting against his alcoholism by isolating himself in the desert was gut-wrenching and emotional - the author painstakingly documents the difficulty of overcoming alcohol & the heartache, anxiety, and agony of some (most?) of those veterans who fought the demons from that war after they came home. On a lighter note, the three cultures represented in the Smoke Tree series (native-American, Mexican, & Western) provide lessons on the altruistic to the banality of evil.
Why I titled this review "I hear you. You you you." Earlier in the book, Johnny Quentin was describing how much he loved nature, how much he enjoyed life when he heard the sound of the mourning dove. What a great metaphor for life - how we can find happiness in what should connote sadness. I hear you, Gary George. Great job on this book - you made me wipe a tear away a few more times than what I would admit to and your character development is such that I will read the next book regardless of the plot...
Take home message: best book of the series. As a Vietnam-era veteran (means I was in the Army during the Vietnam war era, but was not sent there), I empathize with the plight of Johnny Quentin who fought & endured the tragedies of that war. The late chapter that describes his experience fighting against his alcoholism by isolating himself in the desert was gut-wrenching and emotional - the author painstakingly documents the difficulty of overcoming alcohol & the heartache, anxiety, and agony of some (most?) of those veterans who fought the demons from that war after they came home. On a lighter note, the three cultures represented in the Smoke Tree series (native-American, Mexican, & Western) provide lessons on the altruistic to the banality of evil.
Why I titled this review "I hear you. You you you." Earlier in the book, Johnny Quentin was describing how much he loved nature, how much he enjoyed life when he heard the sound of the mourning dove. What a great metaphor for life - how we can find happiness in what should connote sadness. I hear you, Gary George. Great job on this book - you made me wipe a tear away a few more times than what I would admit to and your character development is such that I will read the next book regardless of the plot...
July 3, 2020
One of the best novels that I have ever read Need more stars!
When I label this as the best of Gary George 's Smoke Tree series, I am comparing it to an excellent set of novels. This one has great characters, centering on one who has appeared before but not in all stories. The author weaves his major characters from the series into the story in a very natural way. So much of this nove. lt is about a Vietnam veteran with horrific memories. I was of that era, but avoided that war, but am grateful for those who gave so much for that horrid mistake.
In addition to a moving story line, I was often moved by the quality of the writing, and felt that getting to read it was a special privilege. Add to it the usual detailed accounts of place and geography, and the book adds up to a really special experience.
Bravo, Mr. George!
When I label this as the best of Gary George 's Smoke Tree series, I am comparing it to an excellent set of novels. This one has great characters, centering on one who has appeared before but not in all stories. The author weaves his major characters from the series into the story in a very natural way. So much of this nove. lt is about a Vietnam veteran with horrific memories. I was of that era, but avoided that war, but am grateful for those who gave so much for that horrid mistake.
In addition to a moving story line, I was often moved by the quality of the writing, and felt that getting to read it was a special privilege. Add to it the usual detailed accounts of place and geography, and the book adds up to a really special experience.
Bravo, Mr. George!
December 22, 2022
A Must Read for the Many Souls still suffering from the Vietnam War.
From the very beginning of the first page of "Walks Always Beside You" I was hooked. The writers descriptive writing style made me feel as if I was standing right beside "Johnny", experiencing what he was seeing, hearing and feeling. I came away feeling less anger and sadness about the war and all that it did to our generation.
Walks Always Beside Me is about a lot more than the Vietnam War. It is about facing our worst fears and insecurities and coming away victorious with the knowledge that we are better for it.
I am looking forward to reading more of the works of " Gary J. George."
Richard C Ballasch Kanab, Utah
From the very beginning of the first page of "Walks Always Beside You" I was hooked. The writers descriptive writing style made me feel as if I was standing right beside "Johnny", experiencing what he was seeing, hearing and feeling. I came away feeling less anger and sadness about the war and all that it did to our generation.
Walks Always Beside Me is about a lot more than the Vietnam War. It is about facing our worst fears and insecurities and coming away victorious with the knowledge that we are better for it.
I am looking forward to reading more of the works of " Gary J. George."
Richard C Ballasch Kanab, Utah
June 30, 2020
Great Story This Time Featuring Johnny Quentin
I enjoyed this, the last book, so far, in the Smoke Tree Series. It was interesting seeing all these events through Johnny Quentin's view and finally knowing what was going through his head after the ravages of his Vietnam War experience.
I can hardly wait for the next book in this amazing series.
Before closing, I must mention that I docked the rating by one star for the large number of typos and grammatical errors throughout this latest book. I am assuming the proofreader must have been on strike? FTR, my proofing/editing skills are available for hire.
I enjoyed this, the last book, so far, in the Smoke Tree Series. It was interesting seeing all these events through Johnny Quentin's view and finally knowing what was going through his head after the ravages of his Vietnam War experience.
I can hardly wait for the next book in this amazing series.
Before closing, I must mention that I docked the rating by one star for the large number of typos and grammatical errors throughout this latest book. I am assuming the proofreader must have been on strike? FTR, my proofing/editing skills are available for hire.
January 13, 2025
Gary John George
If the headline reads correctly you have the first name of my first three husbands The fourth is the winner-he has more integrity, honesty and intelligence of anyone I’ve ever met. We are both enjoying your books save for one glaring issue, that being the editing Enough errors to interrupt the flow of what otherwise is stunning character development and descriptions. I spent my younger years (until age 22) in San Bernardino and my brother was a casualty of Viet Nam-you nailed that one!
If the headline reads correctly you have the first name of my first three husbands The fourth is the winner-he has more integrity, honesty and intelligence of anyone I’ve ever met. We are both enjoying your books save for one glaring issue, that being the editing Enough errors to interrupt the flow of what otherwise is stunning character development and descriptions. I spent my younger years (until age 22) in San Bernardino and my brother was a casualty of Viet Nam-you nailed that one!
May 28, 2020
I have read each of the seven books in the Smoke Tree series and appreciate the manner in which true-life characters (some family members) have been woven into the desert experience.
Having been born and raised in the locale, I identify readily with the sensory descriptions of life in the desert.
Kudos to Gary for yet another great writing!
“Mr. Sorrento” would never consider stamping these stories with a heel print!
Having been born and raised in the locale, I identify readily with the sensory descriptions of life in the desert.
Kudos to Gary for yet another great writing!
“Mr. Sorrento” would never consider stamping these stories with a heel print!
October 4, 2023
Mr. George, I was rereading Walks Always Beside you and noticed that at the end of Chapter 37 is a section titled The End of Something. No chapter number. It contains a large chunk of Johnny and the creosote bush found in Chapter 38, titled The End of Something.
I can't tell you how much I love your books. I own them all. I have lived in the Southwest most of my life, and though I'm no outdoor person, reading your books always makes me feel like I'm home. Thank you gor this gift.
I can't tell you how much I love your books. I own them all. I have lived in the Southwest most of my life, and though I'm no outdoor person, reading your books always makes me feel like I'm home. Thank you gor this gift.
December 27, 2024
Great story of a loved character
I truly enjoy the story. The way it rolled the peaks The valleys. I'm looking forward to how things evolved in the next book. But by all means whoever did the proofreading for the last half of this book needs to be let go. There were so many misspells and and grammatical errors it was fortunate that my brain automatically fixes them or I would have quit
I truly enjoy the story. The way it rolled the peaks The valleys. I'm looking forward to how things evolved in the next book. But by all means whoever did the proofreading for the last half of this book needs to be let go. There were so many misspells and and grammatical errors it was fortunate that my brain automatically fixes them or I would have quit
February 8, 2026
Gary George
Gary George is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. A good writer can have several plots happening in a story at one time and tie them all together in the end. In his writings good still trumps over evil. He writes a good story and you do not have to wade through sewer language to read it. Thank you, Gary. The way he writes about Smoke Tree it has to be a beautiful place. Thank you for such a good, relaxing read. Please keep up the good work.
Gary George is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. A good writer can have several plots happening in a story at one time and tie them all together in the end. In his writings good still trumps over evil. He writes a good story and you do not have to wade through sewer language to read it. Thank you, Gary. The way he writes about Smoke Tree it has to be a beautiful place. Thank you for such a good, relaxing read. Please keep up the good work.
June 17, 2020
Fantastic Book
I have a habit of reading the books in this series too quickly. I love the characters, the history behind the research, the knowledge of the desert, and the depth of the characters.
I hope the author is quickly writing the next book in the series! I can hardly wait. What a talented author.
I have a habit of reading the books in this series too quickly. I love the characters, the history behind the research, the knowledge of the desert, and the depth of the characters.
I hope the author is quickly writing the next book in the series! I can hardly wait. What a talented author.
August 17, 2020
Outstanding
Outstanding is used here as a military term for a job well done and far above the ordinary. That description applies to this book. It was incredibly easy to get immersed in the action, plot and characters, quite realistic, even the extraordinary parts. Can't wait to read more by this author.
Outstanding is used here as a military term for a job well done and far above the ordinary. That description applies to this book. It was incredibly easy to get immersed in the action, plot and characters, quite realistic, even the extraordinary parts. Can't wait to read more by this author.
August 19, 2020
Great read!!
Just finished the last book of the Smoke Tree series; what great stories!! Love the characters; the descriptionof all the plants and wildlife in the desert -a place full of life. All of the Smoke Tree novels really touched my heart and bought years to my eyes, but also, a smile to my face. Thank you, Gary!! More? Please?Glad I discovered your books.
Just finished the last book of the Smoke Tree series; what great stories!! Love the characters; the descriptionof all the plants and wildlife in the desert -a place full of life. All of the Smoke Tree novels really touched my heart and bought years to my eyes, but also, a smile to my face. Thank you, Gary!! More? Please?Glad I discovered your books.
August 31, 2020
WOW
This book is fantastic. Greatly enjoyed my time with reading this superb story. This book with its cast of interesting characters kept me captivated from the first word until the last.
This is the first book by this great wordsmith that I have read but it will not be the last.
This book is fantastic. Greatly enjoyed my time with reading this superb story. This book with its cast of interesting characters kept me captivated from the first word until the last.
This is the first book by this great wordsmith that I have read but it will not be the last.
September 4, 2020
This book was a massive disappointment. Whatever you feel about what happened in Vietnam, the authors heroic treatment of John Kerry's traitorous testimony in front of Congress pretty much turns what was a fairly interesting presentation into a painful political parody. Not worth the time or effort.. skip this one.
October 7, 2020
Very satisfying story of life in the Colorado River desert in the 70s
I’ve read all the books in the series, and they contain very satisfying believable characters, and a story that unfolds and holds your interest. If you like the Posadas County mysteries, you will like this series. The books contain overlapping characters, but each stands on its own.
I’ve read all the books in the series, and they contain very satisfying believable characters, and a story that unfolds and holds your interest. If you like the Posadas County mysteries, you will like this series. The books contain overlapping characters, but each stands on its own.
November 25, 2021
Another Meaningful Story
I've read all seven of the Smoketree Series books and have enjoyed them all. I appreciate his writing-style and turn-of-phrase. The plots, including this book, are complete and intricate, thereby keeping one's interest. I feel sad when I finish his books, which is a high-complement.
I've read all seven of the Smoketree Series books and have enjoyed them all. I appreciate his writing-style and turn-of-phrase. The plots, including this book, are complete and intricate, thereby keeping one's interest. I feel sad when I finish his books, which is a high-complement.
January 11, 2022
This is the best one yet.
Gary J George just keeps getting better. Johnny Quentin broke my heart. I can’t believe how much better each book gets. I really enjoy how real these people become and how they continue to grow. I’m beginning the next book in this series tonight. I’m quite attached to the town of Smoke Tree and it’s residents.
Gary J George just keeps getting better. Johnny Quentin broke my heart. I can’t believe how much better each book gets. I really enjoy how real these people become and how they continue to grow. I’m beginning the next book in this series tonight. I’m quite attached to the town of Smoke Tree and it’s residents.
September 20, 2022
This is the best story line so far in this series, I really enjoyed it. The other side of this is that there are spots that seem to have been spellchecked but not edited, which leaves the reader to parse what the author intended to write. There also may be a few too many "gibbous moons", seems overly repetitive. That aside Mr George is a great storyteller.
August 20, 2020
Remarkable soul to this story
It's hard to say more than that. Just read it. It touched my heart because my first husband came back from Vietnam a changed man. He chose to die young, but Vietnam killed him.
It's hard to say more than that. Just read it. It touched my heart because my first husband came back from Vietnam a changed man. He chose to die young, but Vietnam killed him.
January 28, 2021
I like this book, I lived through the Vietnam war, and the horrors that it played on innocent Soldiers rang true in this main character.
I thought it took too long to introduce the characters. Now that I feel I know Johnny , I will read more.
I thought it took too long to introduce the characters. Now that I feel I know Johnny , I will read more.
February 18, 2021
Another good read
I enjoy reading Mr. George's books. They are full of rich characters and alive with their. I surroundings. The stories are absorbing, entertaining, and thought provoking. I always look to the next one!
I enjoy reading Mr. George's books. They are full of rich characters and alive with their. I surroundings. The stories are absorbing, entertaining, and thought provoking. I always look to the next one!
October 8, 2021
Great series
Characters are well written, with definition into what motivates them, and the desert is well described. I enjoyed the whole series and can’t wait for the next one to come along.
Characters are well written, with definition into what motivates them, and the desert is well described. I enjoyed the whole series and can’t wait for the next one to come along.
April 9, 2022
Orange Grove killers
What does Oranges Grove killers got to do with the Mojave Desert? Hmmm got to read the book to find out. Honest if you read the others and enjoyed them, then you know that this book won't disappoint.
What does Oranges Grove killers got to do with the Mojave Desert? Hmmm got to read the book to find out. Honest if you read the others and enjoyed them, then you know that this book won't disappoint.
September 17, 2024
Loved this book!!
I love the way Mr. George continues to tell the stories of people mentioned in previous books and how things keep evolving. I also enjoy the history in the books and how he tries to help you understand how people from different backgrounds feel.
I love the way Mr. George continues to tell the stories of people mentioned in previous books and how things keep evolving. I also enjoy the history in the books and how he tries to help you understand how people from different backgrounds feel.
June 5, 2020
Best of the series so far,
I could feel the heat of the Mohave and taste the peaches. Gary George is another Tony Hillerman. Really amazing.
I could feel the heat of the Mohave and taste the peaches. Gary George is another Tony Hillerman. Really amazing.
June 7, 2020
This was really outstanding, worth the wait, thoroughly researched, takes the reader back to those times. Character construction surperb.
June 18, 2020
Excellent Read
I love the stories having read the seven book series. The detailed description of the desert brought it to life
I love the stories having read the seven book series. The detailed description of the desert brought it to life
June 24, 2020
Excellent series!
I have read all the books in series. The stories are action packed with believable characters. Waiting for next book!
I have read all the books in series. The stories are action packed with believable characters. Waiting for next book!
July 15, 2020
Compelling
This book is much deeper than the usual mystery. It confronts several controversial topics in a believable way. I especially love the characters in this series.
This book is much deeper than the usual mystery. It confronts several controversial topics in a believable way. I especially love the characters in this series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews