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Smoke Tree Mystery #9
Woman of the Desert Moon
A teenage girl, her face suddenly disfigured by paralysis, turns her back on the world and disappears deep into the desert. How long can she remain hidden? A mysterious native American is the only person who has ever seen her as she wanders the desert on moonlit nights, and he keeps her secret. Keeps it, that is, until a drug cartel plane crashes near her mountainside hiding place, putting her in danger.
Two federal agents, one from ATF and one from the FBI arrive in Smoke Tree. They seek the help of Captain Carlos Caballo of the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department in finding thieves who have stolen a shipment of hundreds of AR-15 semi-automatic rifles from a moving train. Sheriff's Deputy Johnny Quentin goes undercover to assist.
Two federal agents, one from ATF and one from the FBI arrive in Smoke Tree. They seek the help of Captain Carlos Caballo of the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department in finding thieves who have stolen a shipment of hundreds of AR-15 semi-automatic rifles from a moving train. Sheriff's Deputy Johnny Quentin goes undercover to assist.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 17, 2022
87 people are currently reading
28 people want to read
About the author
Gary J. George
16 books98 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. Gary is currently working on the thirteenth book in the series, "Desert Resurrection."
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. Gary is currently working on the thirteenth book in the series, "Desert Resurrection."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
April 3, 2022
SO Worth The Wait For This Awesome Book!
It's been a while since my last time in Smoke Tree, so to speak. I wanted to stretch this book out a bit to truly savor it, but it was such a page-turner, finished it in two evenings.
Loved Woman of the Desert Moon and hope she will appear again in later books along with the twins. She is truly such a beautiful character.
Of all the books I read, only two series have radiated such warmth and love and made me think of the characters almost like family. This series is one of them.
I look forward to meeting this ever growing, always inspiring family again soon. Hopefully, not quite as long a wait as this last.
It's been a while since my last time in Smoke Tree, so to speak. I wanted to stretch this book out a bit to truly savor it, but it was such a page-turner, finished it in two evenings.
Loved Woman of the Desert Moon and hope she will appear again in later books along with the twins. She is truly such a beautiful character.
Of all the books I read, only two series have radiated such warmth and love and made me think of the characters almost like family. This series is one of them.
I look forward to meeting this ever growing, always inspiring family again soon. Hopefully, not quite as long a wait as this last.
March 14, 2022
A Great Blend of Facts and Fiction Based Upon People & Personas
As a member of the “Caballo Clan”, it is enriching and intriguing to read the ongoing tales of life in the desert that are based upon threads of fact and fiction.
The author is not only “spot on” with his descriptions of the locales, flora and fauna of the desert, but he portrays his characters based on some individuals that I can honestly say that I can identify through personal interaction when growing up in the areas described.
As a member of the “Caballo Clan”, it is enriching and intriguing to read the ongoing tales of life in the desert that are based upon threads of fact and fiction.
The author is not only “spot on” with his descriptions of the locales, flora and fauna of the desert, but he portrays his characters based on some individuals that I can honestly say that I can identify through personal interaction when growing up in the areas described.
July 5, 2022
Gary George never misses
I liked this book a lot, but in a way not quite as much as some of the predecessors. This book spends more time on a larger number of different characters, with a lot of background, than the preceding books, and the core character of the series, "Horse", is around, but not as present as in earlier books. It made the long runs into the backgrounds a little tedious in places, but everything came together well in the end. Where I found it easy to rate the earlier books at 5.0 stars, in this case I think this is about a 4.7, which rounds up to 5.
I liked this book a lot, but in a way not quite as much as some of the predecessors. This book spends more time on a larger number of different characters, with a lot of background, than the preceding books, and the core character of the series, "Horse", is around, but not as present as in earlier books. It made the long runs into the backgrounds a little tedious in places, but everything came together well in the end. Where I found it easy to rate the earlier books at 5.0 stars, in this case I think this is about a 4.7, which rounds up to 5.
May 2, 2022
Smoke Tree
The first book in the series was was well written and established the principal characters. Each following book added and developed characters and stories that I couldn't stop reading. I couldn't wait to get to the next one. Every story was exciting without resorting to bad language or sex scenes. I learned about Indian lore, desert survival, and a small community very much like the one where I live. I would love to see this series continued!
The first book in the series was was well written and established the principal characters. Each following book added and developed characters and stories that I couldn't stop reading. I couldn't wait to get to the next one. Every story was exciting without resorting to bad language or sex scenes. I learned about Indian lore, desert survival, and a small community very much like the one where I live. I would love to see this series continued!
November 18, 2024
Love this series!
This book as always keeps my attention to the end. I love that as the series goes on we learn more about the main characters and how their lives intertwine, even if a character only has a sentence or two you know they will be involved in future books. Sad about the twins, but can't wait to find out what their journey will bring them. I can't wait to read the next book.
This book as always keeps my attention to the end. I love that as the series goes on we learn more about the main characters and how their lives intertwine, even if a character only has a sentence or two you know they will be involved in future books. Sad about the twins, but can't wait to find out what their journey will bring them. I can't wait to read the next book.
February 24, 2022
I could not stand for this series to end
Gary George has created such a rich and amazing series. The characters grow into your heart and become cherished friends. The Mojave Desert becomes a marvelous place to live in as you read. Thanks for continuing to write the Smoke Tree novels.
Gary George has created such a rich and amazing series. The characters grow into your heart and become cherished friends. The Mojave Desert becomes a marvelous place to live in as you read. Thanks for continuing to write the Smoke Tree novels.
February 25, 2022
An excellent read
I have followed this series from the first book and they are steadily improving. I would suggest more of a translation for the non English used. The books are in English . But I love the characters and locales and especially the price !! One thing I noticed, black tar heroin showed up a lot later than 1973.
I have followed this series from the first book and they are steadily improving. I would suggest more of a translation for the non English used. The books are in English . But I love the characters and locales and especially the price !! One thing I noticed, black tar heroin showed up a lot later than 1973.
March 27, 2022
What a story!
Wow, this book was almost too good! Quite a storyline which really catches you in the end. I hope there's more to come, though I'm not sure if I want to learn how the twins and the Woman of the Desert Moon leave the desert. My hat is off to the author for this series, amazing how you captured the area!
Wow, this book was almost too good! Quite a storyline which really catches you in the end. I hope there's more to come, though I'm not sure if I want to learn how the twins and the Woman of the Desert Moon leave the desert. My hat is off to the author for this series, amazing how you captured the area!
June 29, 2022
Wonderfully Descriptive
Another excellent Smoke Tree mystery, in fact, probably the best out of the seven i have read. You can really get a feeling for the Mojave Desert just from reading the story, although it might help that i have spent many days and nights camping and exploring the areas described in the book.
I highly recommend this book.
Another excellent Smoke Tree mystery, in fact, probably the best out of the seven i have read. You can really get a feeling for the Mojave Desert just from reading the story, although it might help that i have spent many days and nights camping and exploring the areas described in the book.
I highly recommend this book.
July 28, 2022
Review of this book.
An outstanding story. Full of intriguing stories and information. I enjoyed the story because it kept going. The story never faltered, but never lost its continuity. A book well worth reading. The book will be enjoyed by all who read it. Ex excellent writing on the author's part.
An outstanding story. Full of intriguing stories and information. I enjoyed the story because it kept going. The story never faltered, but never lost its continuity. A book well worth reading. The book will be enjoyed by all who read it. Ex excellent writing on the author's part.
February 17, 2026
The Ending was so endearing!
I have really grown to love this series. Such interwoven stories like tapestries. However, I am anxious to read about the departure of the twins and desert woman. The ending of this book was so sweet I almost cried. I love a good story and a good ending. And this book had both.
I have really grown to love this series. Such interwoven stories like tapestries. However, I am anxious to read about the departure of the twins and desert woman. The ending of this book was so sweet I almost cried. I love a good story and a good ending. And this book had both.
February 26, 2022
Always a great story.
The Smoke Tree series doesn't disappoint. The characters are intriguing, if not downright mysterious. I recommend this series to anyone who wants a great story, as well as some insight into the history of Native America.
The Smoke Tree series doesn't disappoint. The characters are intriguing, if not downright mysterious. I recommend this series to anyone who wants a great story, as well as some insight into the history of Native America.
March 7, 2022
All of the Smoke Tree books are excellent.
Couldn't wait for a new one to come out. Have read them twice. My daughter is also reading them. Have been to the area and love the desert.
Couldn't wait for a new one to come out. Have read them twice. My daughter is also reading them. Have been to the area and love the desert.
March 7, 2022
another book in this wonderful series
Great character development. Original and detailed plot. Very sympathetic characters that engage and hold your interest and make you impatient for the next book in the series.
Great character development. Original and detailed plot. Very sympathetic characters that engage and hold your interest and make you impatient for the next book in the series.
March 23, 2022
Another home run!
Characters you won’t forget and look forward to seeing again. The newest cast member is a marvelous addition and is as intriguing and deep as all the others. Mysterious robberies and the good guys are awesome.
Characters you won’t forget and look forward to seeing again. The newest cast member is a marvelous addition and is as intriguing and deep as all the others. Mysterious robberies and the good guys are awesome.
March 29, 2022
The latest in the Smoketree series carries on the great character development and clever plot twists we have come to expect. I am always tempted to head over to the area and search for some of the locations that are so well described.
September 15, 2022
I love the Smoke Tree Series.
I can't wait for the next book. I like how the characters aging and growing fit so well into the story. The surprises and mystery keeps me reading and wanting more.
I can't wait for the next book. I like how the characters aging and growing fit so well into the story. The surprises and mystery keeps me reading and wanting more.
September 22, 2022
Can't wait for the next chapter!
Gary, you've outdone yourself. Each story is better than the last. I'm so personally involved with your cast of characters I cannot wait for the next story to unfold. Thank You
Gary, you've outdone yourself. Each story is better than the last. I'm so personally involved with your cast of characters I cannot wait for the next story to unfold. Thank You
December 19, 2022
Always great reading
Never underestimate County sheriffs from small towns. Everyone has their part to play and does it exceedingly well. All the characters mess with the storyline and if you've read other Smoke Tree books you'll want to read the next one ASAP.
Never underestimate County sheriffs from small towns. Everyone has their part to play and does it exceedingly well. All the characters mess with the storyline and if you've read other Smoke Tree books you'll want to read the next one ASAP.
June 13, 2023
amazing writer
Once again the reader is treated to several intriguing stories, spectacular descriptions of the area, and always anxious to turn the pages. Now I am anxious to get to Book 10!
Once again the reader is treated to several intriguing stories, spectacular descriptions of the area, and always anxious to turn the pages. Now I am anxious to get to Book 10!
June 24, 2023
I love this series of novels.
When I need a break from all the things for which I have responsibilities I simply stop and breath in the fresh air, walk the hills and mountains and once again visit the friends in Smoke Tree.
When I need a break from all the things for which I have responsibilities I simply stop and breath in the fresh air, walk the hills and mountains and once again visit the friends in Smoke Tree.
February 17, 2024
My First Book Review!
I've never reviewed a book before but this book and his other books just really are an interesting, amazing read.
I'm so impressed by the knowledge of the desert, the plants,and the history of the places.
Very entertaining read!
I've never reviewed a book before but this book and his other books just really are an interesting, amazing read.
I'm so impressed by the knowledge of the desert, the plants,and the history of the places.
Very entertaining read!
July 2, 2025
Woman of the Desert Moon
Loved this book ! So much going on, hard to believe it would all be connected and come together at the end. Only 2 more books in this series, I will be lost when I finish them.
Loved this book ! So much going on, hard to believe it would all be connected and come together at the end. Only 2 more books in this series, I will be lost when I finish them.
November 28, 2025
Loving the series.
Very satisfying stories and details about the environment, especially geology, plants and wildlife. I also like how the author uses lingo that was common during the time periods he describes. Carefully researched.
Very satisfying stories and details about the environment, especially geology, plants and wildlife. I also like how the author uses lingo that was common during the time periods he describes. Carefully researched.
February 23, 2022
Hate it when I finish a book!
Excellent read . Mr. George brings the desert and characters to life on the pages of another well-written sequel in the Smoke Tree series.
Excellent read . Mr. George brings the desert and characters to life on the pages of another well-written sequel in the Smoke Tree series.
March 1, 2022
Great Story
What a great story! I would have been happy if it went on and on. I guess I will have to eagerly wait for Gary George to write the next book. Please write quickly!!!
What a great story! I would have been happy if it went on and on. I guess I will have to eagerly wait for Gary George to write the next book. Please write quickly!!!
March 11, 2022
Smoke Tree Novels are amazing fun.
Look forward to each new one. Great characters and desert action. Having seen the desert in AZ I can see the attraction.
Look forward to each new one. Great characters and desert action. Having seen the desert in AZ I can see the attraction.
March 28, 2022
Great story once again
Although we know who did it. How to catch them and story of woman of t desert moon this was one I didn't want to put down
Although we know who did it. How to catch them and story of woman of t desert moon this was one I didn't want to put down
May 8, 2022
Great desert mystery
I loved this book. It was written by someone who loves the desert like I do. And a great mystery also.
I loved this book. It was written by someone who loves the desert like I do. And a great mystery also.
May 24, 2022
I'm sad
This is the last book, and I'm sad that there are no more to read. I loved the stories the people and The Mohave Desert. Will there be more? I hope so.
This is the last book, and I'm sad that there are no more to read. I loved the stories the people and The Mohave Desert. Will there be more? I hope so.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews