In this episode the host breaks down "Creager: The Van Joe Parker Saga", reflecting on a conversation with Larry Hanson, the Author, and the experience of reading the second book first. The episode introduces the setting (Bedford Township, a fictional Colorado suburb), protagonist Detective Benjamin Creager, and his partner Alex Ritch, and all the things in between.

Join the Ink Coffee and Regrets host for the one-year anniversary episode as he reflects on launching the podcast, growing to about 250 regular listeners, and the community that kept him going. He thanks contributors and shares the surprise and joy of discovering an audience.

The episode spotlights memorable books and authors encountered over the year — including Terrie Mayka (He Quoted Scripture, I Lived It) and Kathleen Kline (My Life in the Dark) — and celebrates the connections made through Writers of Kern and local author networks.

Key takeaways include lessons like “consistency beats confidence,” the power of honesty to connect with listeners, and how podcasting has become a therapeutic creative outlet. The host also shares behind-the-scenes moments: microphone and recording issues, using Audacity, a deleted episode mishap, outtakes, and the occasional dog cameo.

Looking ahead to year two, he outlines plans for interviews, more book spotlights, themed episodes, and more coffee and bourbon talk. Listeners are invited to get involved — call or text 503-893-5401, email samuel@inkcoffeeandregrets.com, or find Ink Coffee and Regrets on Blue Sky to say hello or submit books for review.

On this episode of Ink, Coffee, and Regrets: BookTalk the host discusses "Moonstones" by Carla Rosas Stanley, a short fictionalized account of the 1775–1776 Juan Bautista de Anza expedition. Told through the eyes of Loretta, a young girl traveling 1,200 miles with her family and a caravan of 250 people to what is now San Francisco, the book traces desert, mountain, and valley landscapes while capturing the intimate rhythms of daily life on the trail.

Topics covered include family and communal dynamics, coping strategies (Loretta’s ritual of collecting a stone for each day and month), coming-of-age themes, moments of loss and hope, and the book’s accessibility for both adults and children. The host praises the warm storytelling and quick read (about 185 pages) while noting it’s more a personal narrative than a deep historical study.

Key takeaways: a strong recommendation for readers looking for character-driven historical fiction, commentary on pacing and length, where to find links on the host’s site.