The Orchard

"The Orchard" is a sequel to "TOD", the tale about an enormous dog that made a huge impact on a New Mexico family that resides on a thirty- two -acre parcel in a settlement named "The Orchard". Located in the smack-dab center of a New Mexico City, The Orchard introduces new characters-human and animal, friend and foe-that impact the lives of the Gartenberg family.

An unusual, dangerous, animal pays The Orchard a visit and provokes considerable excitement for the Gartenbergs and their neighbors. Then there's a federal government game warden that overplays his authority and is excruciatingly embarrassed by the Gartenberg's cunning attorney, Joseph Marx.

Two miscreant brothers who attempt to include The Orchard in an ingenious drug-dealing conspiracy provide an element of peril and scheming. The drug venture is spoiled by Ad and Janae; JT, their son; and Tod, their ever-vigilant dog.

The adult daughter of Ad and Janae, Michelle, comes to live with them when her contractor husband is awarded an overseas home-building project. Janae sees an opportunity to gain a first grandchild and tries to manipulate Michelle and her husband into taking part in the miracle of pregnancy. The couple wants to wait until Gideon completes the overseas project. Humorous mother and daughter bantering provides a waggish aspect to the tale that leaves the reader wondering what will come in the next book in this sequel, Longears.