I am a Vietnam veteran and member of the Military Writers Society Of America. My book based on true stories about growing up in the 1960s, The Boys Of Northwood, is available on Amazon.com and on the Kindle wireless reading device. My fictional novel, Sarah Of The Moon, a love story with a touch of mystery and adventure, that takes place in San Francisco during the summer of 1967 is available on Amazon.com and other venues. My Short story, Eternal, has been published by Sleeping Cat Books in their anthology, The Storm Is Coming. My new novel, Letters From Long Binh, is based on the letters I wrote home to my wife while an MP in Vietnam. It is available at Amazon.com and other venues. My latest novel, Swan Loch, will be available soon. You are an awesome writer. I was mesmerized by the hold that Sarah seemed to have on Alex. It was sad to see it end. Robert Kolling - http://bobspeak.com/ Randy Mixter's book, Sarah Of The Moon, is a great read for all ages! Kimberly Shursen - Underground Book Reviews Randy Mixter is an amazing writer! I loved Sarah of the Moon and it's definitely a book I will read again. He is able to not only stage a scene well, but he can put the reader ring side. He's an author I will continue to follow. It's so nice being able to forget the rest of the world for awhile and live in his book. Good job Randy! Terri Marie, author of The Shack, Merry and a cat named Cha-moan Randy's novel Sarah of the Moon is a great piece. If you love romance be sure to check out his work, you won't regret it - Natalie Valdes of Independent Reads This is a compelling book, telling the fascinating story of the Summer of Love at its height in 1967 California. I guarantee you too will find it difficult to put down. - Steven Weathers - Weathers Book Blog Randy’s keen observations put you on the streets with the mystical Sarah, her friends and the flower children that come to life in San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury district. It is an excellent piece of literature, smartly written, about the hopes and dreams of a generation’s vision of world peace. Add a young newspaper writer and a Vietnam War hero and you have a classic work of romance and adventure that brings twists and turns to the ending. A must read for all ages. Ted Pannell – Vietnam Veteran and author of Vietnam Stories – Dreams to Nightmares I encourage everyone to get Randy's new novel, LETTERS FROM LONG BINH, for I'm confident it'll be just as good, if not better than his Sarah of the Moon. Ted Pannell - author of Vietnam Stories    My short story, ETERNAL, is featured in the anthology THE STORM IS COMING. Now available from Sleeping Cat Books Publishers. Wow. I just finished “Eternal” in The Storm is Coming. What a heartbreaking story! It really stabbed me right in the heart, having been married to the love of my life for 37 years. Brilliant job! Best of luck with your writing! Carole Bellacera, Author NEWS My latest novel Swan Loch will be available soon. I have been getting requests for signed copies of the book. If you are interested in a personalized signed copy for $10 (price includes shipping) please contact me by e-mail. This offer is for a limited time only. http://www.greetingsandreadings.com Amazon Sales Page Sarah Of The Moon is in a summer reading contest on Underground Book Reviews. A vote thrown her way would be much appreciated. My Facebook books site is up and running. Check it out (and like it) here. Randy Mixter's Book Site http://frontrowmonthly.com/ Atomic Books at 36th Street and Falls Road in Hampden (Baltimore, Md.) is now selling the Boys Of Northwood. The Amazing Spiral bookstore at 711 W. 40th Street (the Hampden Rotunda Mall) in Baltimore is now selling The Boys Of Northwood. I have finished writing Swan Loch. The first draft is now in the proofreading process. I hope to have the edited book available for sale by mid-June 2012. A review of Sarah Of The Moon as well as an author's interview is now posted on THE READING CAFE website. Underground Book Reviews My book blog, Writing For Fun And Profit, is now up and running. I will be posting at least one new blog a week. ANNAPOLIS DIGITAL E-BOOKS AND AUTOGRAPHED 1ST EDITIONS is now exclusively stocking autographed copies of my books for $10 each (price includes shipping). Buy all three for $25. E-mail randym246@comcast.net for more information. Letters From Long Binh: Memoirs of a Military Policeman in Vietnam is now sale priced at $8.63 on Amazon.com. This sale is for a limited time only. Check out the reviews and enjoy the book! Sarah Of The Moon has been reduced in price to $11.69 on Amazon.com. Signed copies of two of my books, Sarah Of The Moon and Letters From Long Binh: Memoirs of a Military Policeman in Vietnam, are now for sale at Season's Best in Salisbury, Md. in the U Dig Records section on the back wall. Hard Bean Coffee and Booksellers in Annapolis, MD. are now stocking my three books. Annapolis Bookstore and Cafe, at 25 Maryland Ave. in Annapolis, is now stocking my books. A preview of LETTERS FROM LONG BINH is now available on the book's website: https://sites.google.com/site/lettersfromlongbinh/ Thanks to all who showed up at the Greetings And Readings Book Fest . A great day with good friends. Thanks to Steve and Roberta Weathers of The Weathers Book Blog http://steveweathers.blogspot.com/ for their 5 star review of Sarah Of The Moon. Sarah Of The Moon and The Boys Of Northwood are now available for sale at the Greetings and Readings book store in Hunt Valley, MD. All three of my novels, Sarah Of The Moon, The Boys Of Northwood, and Letters From Long Binh are available on the Kindle (and other wireless reading devices) at the low price of $2.99.  Lou Fantauzzi - Vietnam 1966-67 In his book, "Letters From Long Binh" Randy Mixter paints a very vivid picture of the life of a Vietnam M.P. It is a good read for all, not just Vietnam Veterans. He gives the reader a clear picture of the daily life and duties of a combat M.P. Taken from letters he wrote home during his tour of duty, the book is presented in "diary" form. It is an authentic chronicle what M.P.s experienced and felt during a deadly and confusing conflict. Well written, it will hold your interest through the entire book. Having served at Long Binh myself as an M.P. it was easy to relate to the book. I can highly reccomend this excellent read. John Schembra - author of M.P. A Novel Of Vietnam I just finished reading LETTERS FROM LONG BINH by Randy Mixter, and found it to be another one of his excellent writings. Randy’s talent recaps his tour of duty as a Military Policeman in Vietnam in the form of letters to his then girlfriend Roni, later to become his wife. Though the letters are modified for a more readable story, they are the truthful insights of a 20-year old soldier in a bizarre and explosive country. It is very informative and brought back many memories I had long forgotten. Randy takes you with him on his foot patrols through a city base-camp, the alleys and dark streets where danger larks in every shadow. You ride on the machine-gun jeep “Rat Patrols,” escorting convoys along perilous highways. Randy conveys quite clearly that no place is safe in Vietnam. I highly recommend this well written book to everyone and gladly give it a Five-Star rating. Ted Pannell - author of Vietnam Stories - Dreams to Nightmares At the beginning of 1967, Randy Mixter found himself stationed at Long Binh, South Vietnam as an MP. Over the course of the next year, Randy penned numerous letters to his girlfriend Roni of his life and experience as an MP as America's involvement in the Vietnam War escalated. Fortunately for us, those letters survived the ravages of time and provide us with a unique window on those early days of the conflict. Unlike some memoirs which draw upon someone's memories of the war, Mixter's letters to his girlfriend give us this sense of immediacy to the war. We are right there with Mixter when he goes out on a town patrol in rowdy raucous Bien Hoa or on highway patrol and because these are letters, there is also this personal side to them which oftentimes gives the reader this feeling that he is talking to us directly. Describing his daily and in many instances nightly routines as an MP, Mixter offers insights into the conflict from a rear echelon point of view, as well as the conflict in general. To be sure, in his letters he has time to reflect upon the war: "A ride into Saigon is normally cause for celebration, but not this time. Visiting any hospital in Vietnam, no matter the reason, is always a solemn affair. I have been to the 93rd Evac in Long Binh several times delivering future patients or visiting friends. Each time I go there I am reminded of the pain and suffering always near and always threatening in this war torn country." (p. 107). We might not see the war in the jungles or the hills, but we do see another side of the war, which at times is just as frightening and overwhelming. Things get intense on highway patrols and convoy runs which remind readers that in the Vietnam War, the fighting and guerilla warfare tactics were all around the men. This book is gritty and intense. I highly recommend it. Jeffrey Miller - Author of War Remains and Waking Up In The Land Of Calm Wow, this was an amazing book. It brought so many emotions to the forefront. A book that can make me cry is usually a book that will make me read it twice. I felt like I was sitting there with the soldier as he poured his heart out. I have so many family members that went to war and this book was an excellent book to really let you know how a soldier is feeling. I can't believe Randy Mixter shared this very personal information with us but I'm pleased that he did. You will be missing out if you skip this book. 5 star Amazon posted review - February 25, 2012 Just another book about Vietnam? Wait; don’t dismiss this memoir out of hand. Every experience is different and every soldier has both a shared and a unique vision of that experience and Randy Mixter tells an honest and humorous story of his time in Vietnam in Letters From Long Binh. Memories change over the years for most, for soldiers they are forever part of their life. So many stories of those so young can start saying “I boarded the plane.” If thoughts or ideas existed about easy and heroes they ended with wheels down. In sharing his memories through the letters of that time in his life Mixter has opened the door into his and many Veterans lives. From the mundane day to day to the absolutely frightening he shares it all. Adding humor into the telling makes it easier for Veterans to read. History buffs and those that simply do not understand what it is like to serve in country need to read this. It will definitely open their eyes. One phrase keeps banging around in my head, remembering how many times I have heard it, reminded after all these years by Letters From Long Binh “You’ll be fine.” The Military Writers Society of America Finished the book while on a ski trip to Utah last week. Quite enjoyable and you hit many things that brought back quite a few memories and then some. Arnie Daxe - CO, 615 MP Co - Aug 1967-Feb 1968. Once I started (Letters From Long Binh) I could not put it down. I was one of those that took over Bien Hoa when you made the switch and finally was transferred to 615. I felt I was living that year over again. Great read. Al Bradley Terrific book! Literally could not put it down. I read it in about 45 minutes. Absolutely loved it. A great story consisting of a number of discrete incidents that occurred to Randy Mixter as he went about his duties, very well written and told with a storyteller's heart. A terrific read for any Vietnam veteran especially, as well as as a good book for anyone who needs an idea of what life was like for an average the Military Policeman. Dennis Mansker - Author of A Bad Attitude As I am a fan of Randy Mixter's last two books, "The Boys of Northwood", and "Sarah of the Moon", I was anxiously awaiting his next one. Now, I do not usually read books about wars but because I so enjoy Mixter's writing style I decided to give this one a try. I was not sure what to expect but I need not have worried. This book does not disappoint if you want humor, honesty and truth about a soldier's days in Vietnam as a military policeman. Mixter's latest treasure is filled with detailed descriptions of his "mis"adventures in a war-torn country where no one wanted to be on a good day let alone during a war. It is an easy read and I highly recommend it anyone, guys or gals. Write on Randy! Joan Gunby I just finished reading the new book by Randy Mixter "Letters from Long Binh" Memoirs of a Military Policeman in Vietnam His new book reads like a journal of his day to day life as a MP in Vietnam as told to his girl friend in his letters that he wrote to her almost every day while he was there. His book brings back a lot of memories for this old soul from the times I spent in some of the same places as Randy was. Once I started reading I could not put it down until I finished reading it.This book tells the story of the duties that he had to preform while there and the things he seen and done along with some of the close calls that he had. I highly recommend this book to anyone who served in Vietnam or anyone interested in the stories about Vietnam as told by the ones that were there. Check it out today, you wont be disappointed. Steve Weathers - The Weathers Book Blog  She arrived on the wind.
It’s August 8th, 2012, more than four months after his wife’s murder. Sheriff Chris Hayward has made it his life’s quest to find her killer, but every lead has come to a dead end…until now. A young girl has wandered into the town of Swan Loch, Maine. She seeks out one person, Emma Carson, a teacher at the local school. She claims the wind brought her there, and she has a message for Sheriff Hayward. Your wife is alive and I know where to find her. Chris, Emma, and the girl with no name will now journey to a place where all mysteries will be solved, where one believed lost forever may again be found, and where evil has discovered the perfect hiding place. But they must hurry, because in less than 12 hours the killer will strike again. PROLOGUE
The wind was a storyteller that mid-August morning. It blew into the open bedroom window of the house on the hill on the outskirts of the town limits of Swan Loch, Maine. Once inside the small quaint room of the oldest residence in Rustin County, it circled the perimeter walls, its current still strong and rife with purpose. The wind slowed briefly to absorb the many pictures and photographs adorning the walls and furniture, and then pushed toward the bed where a man lay sleeping. It grazed the sheet covering him, ruffling the fabric into small waves before moving upward and feeling the warmth of the still body. Outside, beyond the room gathering the first light of day, a fierce gust of air shook the house and the wind knew it was time to go. It moved over the sleeping man, for the story was for him, and, with barely a pause in its swirling pace, the wind told its tale. When the man woke several minutes later, the morning sun shown bright through the open bedroom window and the wind had not only traveled past the boundaries of Rustin County, it had left our universe. THE FOLLOWING READERS WILL RECEIVE A FREE SIGNED COPY OF SWAN LOCH WHEN IT IS AVAILABLE LATER THIS YEAR. IF YOU WOULD LIKE A COPY TO REVIEW AND DO NOT SEE YOUR NAME ON THE LIST, LET ME KNOW. Melody Anne, Terri Marie, Mark Brine, Joan Gunby, Katherine Gunby, Steve Mixter, Lynn Rybicki, Mary J. O'Keefe, Diane Krull, Dave Baier, Mary Ann Zeller, Lisa Brown, Robert Kolling, Jeffrey Miller RETURN TO THE SUMMER OF LOVE    Today I read "Sarah of the Moon" by Randy Mixter and seldom have I been so touched as I was by his novel set in the Haight-Asbury district of San Francisco in 1967. If it were possible to give this book ten stars instead of merely five I would do so. The purpose of all writing is to transport us to a new destination, to expand our perspective of the world we live in, or to give us a glimpse of an existing world we've never seen. This author does so in such a profound way as to make it seem part of your own experience. There was a line in the story that says more than I ever could about the journey, ("It's a kind place to visit," he said.) I am thankful to own a copy of this book and know that it is one I will read often just because I will miss its presence. I am looking forward with great anticipation to reading all his other works N.A. Forbush - Taken from the Goodreads website Name: Sarah Of The Moon Author: Randy Mixter Genre: Fiction Pages: 232 Summary: In the aftermath of the war with Afghanistan, we are taken back in time to the longest war in US history. It is a time when John Lennon’s Yesterday played in juke boxes and two fingers held up in a ‘V’ formation became the official peace sign. Author Randy Mixter paints a vivid picture of the Hippies in the summer of l967 San Francisco. After graduating from high school, Alex Conley waits for his draft notice while working as a part-time reporter at the Baltimore Sunpapers. Alex’s father sermonizes that his son will, by God, serve his country like he did in World War II. He also needs little prompting to give his less than admirable opinion of the lazy, druggies who call themselves Hippies. Against his father’s wishes, Alex accepts a temporary assignment in San Francisco to write a weekly column about the Hippies. Alex’s boss hooks him up with his nephew, Chick, who lives in the infamous Haight-Ashbury neighborhood. Men, women and children occupy the small home, their sleeping quarters divided only by sheets draped from the ceiling. When Alex meets Sarah, the beautiful girl who dresses in white and dances under the moonlight, he knows he has seen her in past dreams. As they begin to fall in love, Sarah tells Alex that her parents speak to her from beyond the grave and tells her of the future. And when Sarah encourages Alex to wear tennis shoes instead of sandals that become key to saving a child’s life, he becomes a believer. Alex’s columns give insight into the thoughts of those committed to world peace. Alex and Sarah’s love affair is not the fickle flirtatious love of youth, but the kind of deep emotional love, laced with respect and acceptance, that lasts a lifetime. Opinion: Sarah Of The Moon is a beautiful, well-written story that offers much more than just a love story. It is also a fresh, insightful view as to the reasoning of those opposed to the Vietnam War. Randy Mixter gently peels back the layers of the emotional and psychological trauma surrounding the era. Mr. Mixter not only tells the story of those dedicated to saving their own generation, but of those committed to fighting for their country. Quote: “Someone said something to Sarah and she laughed. It was a beautiful sound. He knew then, in that moment, he had found a place where beauty truly existed. A place where a child of the moon danced on a summer hill in a sun washed breeze. A place where the laughter of a girl dressed in white and a windswept song not only shared the same moment, but also had the exact same sound. “ Sarah Of The Moon is a heartfelt premise of those present day Baby Boomers once referred to in their youth as ‘Hippies.’ Recommendation: Mr. Mixter’s ability to communicate in a thought provoking way is a rare find. Not just a novel for Baby Boomer’s, but for anyone who would enjoy an ‘up close and personal’ novel about the hopes and dreams of youth. Rating: 5 Stars Kimberly Shursen - Underground Book Reviews This book was absolutely beautifully written. I felt like I was reading a memoir because the details were so vivid. I was transported to a time I've never really known much about and actually found myself longing to have been able to experience a summer of such freedom and beauty. I fell in love with the characters. They are written in such a way that you would have trouble convincing me that they aren't real people. I really cared about them and feel like I want to know what they are doing with their lives now. It isn't often a work of fiction has that effect on me. Well done! Leslie - 5 Star Goodreads and Amazon review posted March 6, 2012 Randy Mixter's tale, Sarah of the Moon, was nothing like what I expected. I was pleasantly surprised when I read the first chapter. When I found that much of it took place in an area and atmosphere of which I had no experience I began to get caught up in the story. Randy draws his characters well with broad brushstrokes without resorting to gimmicks or stereotypes except in the loosest way. The story of the boy from Baltimore and the enigmatic San Francisco Flower Child, Sarah, is as touching as any I have ever read. Moon Crossed lovers like Romeo and Juliet, their story is well worth reading. Well done, Randy. Well done. I loved it! James Battee -author of Double Trouble on Corned Beef Row I am an avid reader. Whether it be a book purchased on Kindle or "the real thing", when I find an author I love it is hard to wait for their next treasure to arrive in the book store. "Sarah of the Moon" was a treasure worth waiting for. I love "Sarah of the Moon" so much that I read it three (3), (yes, three!) times. And each and every time I was taken back to the gentler days of the 60's when all that generation wanted was peace, love and freedom to do what "felt good". Along comes Alex, the main character in the book, who tries out this lifestyle and quickly find out how addictive, even without the use of drugs, it can be. Alex goes to San Francisco on a assignment that changes his life and the way he thinks. "Sarah of the Moon" allows the reader to come to their own conclusion about the hippie culture. It is positive in it's description of that lifestyle at that time. I took away a new respect of just what the real intention of that culture was and what they tried to achieve. This is a beautiful love story that blossoms and peaks in one summer. Randy Mixter keeps you guessing as to just what the elusive Sarah, who the book was named after, wants from Alex. Is she in love with him? He clearly is in love with her. Does she eventually return his affection? Read "Sarah of the Moon" and find out for yourself. Don't be surprised if you find yourself wanting to read it more than once. It is that kind of book! Joan Gunby This is one book I could not put down. Randy Mixter brought me into the Haight-Ashbury boarding house of this family. The emotional suspense was drawing me to the very last page in hopes of a fairy tale ending. Having grown up in the 60's, drafted into the Army, and serving in Vietnam, I could easily relate to the story, and I pictured myself in Alex's place. Sarah drew me in as it did Alex. The daily activities, the music, and the culture was there for me to touch. Sarah's aura was mysterious, yet magical. This book will stay with me for a long time to come. In my opinion, it would make a perfect made-for-TV movie. I highly recommend it to readers of all genres. Robert Kolling - http://bobspeak.com/ Everyone's memory of the 60s is their own. I enjoyed readng this account which may have been fictious. The characters had a true quality to them and were not stereotypes. Having been part of this generation and familiar with "The Haight" I would recommend reading it. I found interesting how the beginning of the end of the hippie culture seemed to come about according to the story. It is something I often wonder about and find regretful. Everyone who reads this book will fall in love with Sarah...I know I did. I got this book for free on my Kindle but if you have to payfor it, it is worth the money. J. Reich - "Reader" (Pacific Northwest) A top-rate novel of 'the times' (the 60's.. I lived them, and truly can attest!).. Totally accurate!! As a novelist myself.. and likewise having written a (forthcoming..) novel on this "Summer of Love" period.. I, at times, saw some 'striking similiarities' in both works (Which initially bothered me, I'll admit!.. Heck, no one likes to be accused of plagiarism!!..lol!!)..But, it finally dawned on me..'Hey, that was the mindset then!.. This was the sort of thinking and sentiment that prevailed in those days!.. The things that mattered, etc.. and so, it's magical carry-over, thru the years (in the writings of it)!' Yes, this book lives and breaths of it.. and I highly recommend it, if you 'experienced' then (or even just 'wanted to' vicariously!).. Yeah... As the Beatles put it.."I'd love to turn... you on!" (Day in the Life") Mark Brine - Recording artist and author This is a must read, January 3, 2012 I was so excited to have found this book because my dad was born in 1949 in San Francisco, and to this day he is what you would call an old school hippie. I hated anything to do with that when I was a child and was horribly embarrassed by my father, and even cringed when tie-dye came back into style several years ago, but reading this book gave me a piece of what my fathers early years were like and helps me to understand him more. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely adore the man, he's my hero, I was just a normal teenager who was embarrased by her parents. This book was written so well, it was amazing. I felt like I was on the streets of San Fransisco and I was going to pass by a much younger version of my dad at any moment. I love all types of books and feel that I grow every time I read something as amazing as this one. I loved Sarah so much and how she was mysterious and slowly started to give pieces of herself away. Spoiler Alert: The car scene was so dang terrifying. First the way the previous chapter ended making me wonder what was going to happen, and then I could practically feel the tension as he was running. I'm trying to say this without giving things away. My heart was pounding. Also another scene with the officers, I actually laughed out loud, making my husband ask what was so funny. I rarely laugh out loud when reading. I will smile, or cry, but rarely laugh. This book has it all, mystery, romance, history, and teaches us to have compassion for things that we just don't understand. This book was written so well. You will certainly be missing out on something special if you don't read this amazing book. I also went and looked at the author's profile and found it really interesting that he served in Vietnam and was still able to write something so compelling. It wasn't done as a political statement, and it wasn't done trying to preach one side verses the other. It was done so tastefully and uniquely and I will definitely buy more of this authors work. Amazing Book!!! Melody Anne - Author of The Billionaire series This story took me way back...Nothing was left behind, and it stayed true to the era. The struggles that Alex had to endure to 'fit in', were really written well. After finishing this book, I found myself at a loss for words. This is truly a multi-faceted story, like a diamond that shines in many directions. I could see Sarah dancing in my mind, and I feel all of Alex's love for her..The cover is beautiful. A very, well written work of art. Terri Marie - Author of The Shack, Merry And A Cat Named Cha-moan This is a touching love story about a particular generation (1967 West coast teen Sarah) that loved the idea of peace and love. Alex ,the main character on the other hand was from the 1967 East coast world , a reporter with a different set of ideas about life. I was struck by the honesty and sensitivity of both main characters,and the fact that they both took directions in life that were not the easiest decisions but what they both truly believed in. There is an innocence to this story, that is refreshing. I picked the book up and could not put it down. Very well written. This book would make a great movie. David L. Simpson - Author of Loch Raven This book was a truly engaging story about Alex Conley, a writer for the Baltimore Sunpapers, who went on assignment in San Francisco during the "hippie movement" and Summer of Love. Alex was asked to write about the day to day lives of the hippies who lived in the Haight-Ashbury community. Once there, he realized he finally found Sarah, the girl who was in so many of his dreams. Alex's evolving relationship with Sarah and his quest to find out who she was, and what she was all about, keeps you in suspense until the end. The many other supporting characters and their lives during the "Summer of Love," added so much interest to the plot of the story. I felt that every angle of this book was well-thought-out and well-written by the author. Lisa Brown -At first glance, I honestly thought this was going to be one of those sappy romance novels.AND I was wrong, it isFAR MORE than that. It's most likely because the description and the cover doesn't give the book the justice it truly deserves.(Some Hipster Chick, would be cool) After the first two chapters, I was sucked in and couldn't put it down. Alex, the eighteen year old part-timer for a paper interested me. Why? Well, the era. Hippies are something I never read about before, and other than listening to the Beatles on occasion and watching their Hollywood true stories, I didn't know anything about that time period. And neither did Alex, a kid from a strict military family...until...(Readit) It made me think about where I would be at eighteen during the 1960's and if I'd be a bare foot walking flower child? My heart cried out for the main character, all I wanted was for him to have his happy ending. And that's saying something that I instantly fell in love with him. In the end I found myself wishing that there we're still more hippies, that there we're still people like that everywhere. Quite possibly I'm sure there could be, but that era in itself is gone. Which makes me incredibly sad, because their culture is one I could perfectly understand. Especially during these times. Natalie Valdes -INDEPENDENT READS This is the second book I have read by Randy Mixter. The author has a unique gift for recreating a place and time that now exists only in his mind and we are lucky enough to get to go there with him. Through the eyes and ears of the 18 y.o. main character, fledgling reporter Alex Conley, we wander the streets of Haight-Ashbury in the summer of 1967. We move into a crash pad with him, meet and fall in love with the ultimate "flower child,"the beautiful and enigmatic Sarah all the while meeting a cast of very believable hippie characters. Alex comes from a traditional American family and with that comes obligations. We know right up front that he is dropping in for a few months and then returning to reality, which includes another relic of those days, being drafted to do 24 months as a soldier for Uncle Sam. Those of us who lived during those frightening days of the VietNam war will "get" that the Draft is one of the main characters in this book too. If you missed the Summer of Love in 1967 then its not too late to go back. Alex and Sarah will let you hang with them. Kick off your shoes, smell the ganja, hear the bongos, bump into Gerry Garcia and the Jefferson Airplane, get a free meal from the Diggers before watching the stars from Hippie Hill. It's "far out, man." Jack Flynn A great book by Randy Mixter The main character, Alex, is a bored reporter for a hometown newspaper and he was stuck in a small cubicle assigned to covering local events. He is a temp, he is bored with covering garden shows and county fairs types of stories. Just when he thinks he cannot stand the boredom any longer, his boss gives him an assignment to go to Haight-Ashbury, CA to cover the Summer of Love in 1967. Alex is delighted and jumps at the chance to do something much more fun. His boss hooks Alex up with his nephew, a guy named, Chick, who maintains a house where the Flower Children live. a clueless young man Alex comes from the East and when East meets West, Alex at first, experiences culture shock. He has heard of Hippies but never met any before now. He finds they seem almost foreign in nature, compared to the straight laced life with his mother and retired military, father back home. The Hippies dress differently, they indulge in recreational drugs and they even seem to talk a whole different language than Alex has ever known before. But it isn't long before the Hippies, most of them anyway, make him feel at home. Chick even gives Alex a tour of the area and helps Alex buy some Hippie clothes so he doesn't stick out like a sore thumb. A couple of people living in the house though find it difficult to warm up to Alex fully, until, one day, Alex is on the front porch alone and observes a raid going on down the street at another house. Alex alerts Chick and Chick alerts the others of the house, causing them to be more cautious about where they stash their drugs. Finally the two hippies who weren't sure of Alex, admit they, at first thought he might be a Narc, but now know differently. He becomes somewhat of a hero. Finally he fits in. a Moon Child named Sarah Alex first sees Sarah when Chick takes him to a local park where the Flower Children congregate. It is nighttime and Alex sees a beautiful young woman, on a hill, dancing in the moonlight under a large tree. He recognizes this young woman. They have never met in person before, but he has seen her in his dreams. He asks himself: "Could this be the same woman of my dreams?" They meet after her dance and Sarah remains mysterious and aloof. It is difficult for Alex to get close to her or find out much about her past life. Alex falls hopelessly and totally in love with Sarah. Alex finds out Sarah is what is known as a moon child. Meaning she was born during an eclipse. It is believed, by the house members, that Sarah has special powers, enabling her to see some things others don't always see. This is a compelling book, telling the fascinating story of the Summer of Love at its height in 1967 California. I guarantee you too will find it difficult to put down. Steve Weathers - The Weathers Book Blog I am not much of a reader but once I started Sarah of the Moon, I was drawn into the story like never before. I was in my late twenties during the period of the novel and a Vietnam Veteran. When Matt's character, the vet was introduced I found myself in tears. Everyone has a long lost love of some kind, and this story brought my memories to the surface. Great read! Al Bradley - 615th MP Co. 1967-68 What a good read! Set during the Summer of Love, the author recreates San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury of 1967 while artistically telling the love story between a young Baltimore reporter, out to discover a new world, and a flower child who is firmly entrenched in that world. Randy Mixter includes realistic references to all of the elements of those troubled times including the new "hippie" movement, free love, drugs, Viet Nam War, the military draft, and the rock music that originated in SF. Sarah of the Moon takes you there. Mary Ann Zeller A touching love story By Katherine Gunby Sarah of the Moon is a touching love story. Alex is a young reporter who writes first person news stories about the progressive San Fransisco hippie movement during the Vietnam War. While living with and writing about people in the Haight-Ashbury District, Alex meets the mysterious Sarah. Sarah is a leader and a voice of hope in a world of chaos. The two are clearly meant for each other and their relationship, although brief, forever changes him. Alex is young, down-to-earth, open minded and extremely likeable. It's easy for readers to connect with him throughout the story. The author weaves a fast-paced story about friendship and romance set in a time of turmoil. A great summer read! By Dave Baier Finished reading "Sarah" and loved it. It was easy reading and really held my interest. I love the way the book captures the way things were during that period and how the people caught up in the "movement" were capable of bonding and helping each other out. I love the romance between Alex and Sarah and the way she continued to remain a mystery to him all the way to the end. This is really a must read story of what it was like in the days of war and protest in this area of the country. By Donna Krull This review is from Sarah Of The Moon (Paperback) I really enjoyed Sarah of the Moon. Having lived during this time, it brought back many memories - The Beatles, Baltimore, hippies, and flower power. Reading about the brick row houses with marble steps brought back happy memories of my days at my grandmother's house on Baltimore Street.I couldn't put the book down - waiting to find out what became of Alex and Sarah. Reading about the Vietnam war brought back memories of my older brother - a Marine who fought in that war. If you like traveling back to the 60's, this book is for you! By Mary J OKeefe This review is from: Sarah Of The Moon (Paperback) I loved Sarah of the Moon! It is a very interesting and descriptive love story set amid the hippie culture of 1967. Having lived during the 1960s, I was aware of the hippies and the Peace Movement, but did not know all the details of their culture and style of living. Randy Mixter expertly describes and explains this way of life while weaving a romance between Sarah, a mysterious Flower Child living in Haight-Ashbury, and Alex, a part-time newspaper reporter from Baltimore. Mr. Mixter's vivid description of places like the Hippie's house, Sarah's hill, and the "Pillow Room" are so detailed that I could possibly draw a picture of them. I thoroughly enjoyed this book! A Good Tale By Lynn Rybicki "Sarah of the Moon" flows like a good high--smooth and mellow. It hearkens back to an era of hopes and dreams scarred by the reality of war, and exalts the flower children who wanted to change the world. It is a good tale, well and simply told. It is a love story. I highly recommend it. By Steve M I totally enjoyed Sarah of the Moon. For me the Summer of Love was filled with joy and sorrow, joy at the prospect of graduating high school and the new world that was opening before me. Sorrow that the "old gang" was breaking up, some going on to college some to the military. It was this time that Randy Mixter has captured in this book. A time when young men in the military were the subject of scorn and those of us of draft age faced the question, Do we run or do we fight? This book tells that story, a story of love and heartbreak. I was not a hippie nor did I ever make it to the places that this book takes us, but in many ways it is the story of our generation. TRUE AND OFTEN HUMOROUS STORIES ABOUT GROWING UP IN THE 1960s   By Jack Flynn This is a great book for anyone who wants to visit or better yet revisit a typical boy's coming of age in the 50's and 60's through the experiences and memories of its talented author as he grows up in suburban Baltimore. Its appeal is universal as you travel back to the outdoors world of Randy and his brother and friends. You slip away from parents and teachers into the magical world of scary woodland nights, warm summer days, chasing girls, parking, discovering rock and roll. The author's ability to recall events and people in wonderfully exquisite detail has the effect of bringing your own pre-teen and teen years back to life. There is a magical wonder to that all too short time in your life, and living it in the post war days in America was a gift. It was all low-tech by today's standards but I think a lot more fun. This is a wonderful book and I enjoyed every page. Wonderful memories! By Chris Milford - Germany The short stories in this book are wonderfully nostalgic and vividly describe the goings on of a group of neighborhood friends from the Baltimore neighborhood called Northwood. When I read this book, Jean Shepard's Christmas Story immediately came to mind. Mr. Mixter has a way of telling a tale from his adventures as a teen that transports the reader back in time to the early 60's. Those were innocent times before people locked their doors and the neighbors knew each other. The book is full of humor and you'll enjoy the trip to a simpler life if only for a short time. I would love a sequel. 5 Stars for The Boys of Northwood - Amazon Review April 12, 2012 By E. Reading this book leaves one with a warm feeling of remembrance - how sweet it was to grow up in MD during the late 1950-60's. The book is written with great attention to detail - a tribute to the author's memory and gives one a feeling of shared experiences. There were chapters where I laughed out loud. Two of my favorite stories were the "dance" at the Northwood Rec Center with the Mello-Men and the Northwood School Summer Fair. Open the book at any point and be immediately transported back in time by the author's recall of music, seasonal events or even favorite types of candy. This was a thoroughly enjoyable read and I look forward not only to sharing it with friends but to reading it again in future By Joan Gunby I was delighted to find Randy Mixter's book, "The Boys of Northwood, " is reading that is not just for boys. I believe this is Mixter's first novel and he weaves tales of his boyhood adventures with the Northwood gang, perhaps with a little embellishment, that are humorous and just plain fun to read. Mixter and his buddy's antics throughout each chapter tell of a much more innocent time when things like "Sewer pipe exploring" and "Riding in the trunk"(actual chapter titles) to avoid having to pay for a car load of friends in a drive in movie, are truly extreme adventures for that time period. If you lived during that time period, nostalgia will take over and transport you back to that chapter in your life. if you did not, you can only experience the adventures through this book or perhaps a movie depicting this time and the innocence lost to it. Any book that makes me laugh out loud is more than worth the purchase price and I did a lot of laughing out loud while reading this book. By Lisa Best Brown This is a great book which I highly recommend to anyone who lived their youth in the 1950's and 1960's! I lived on the same street in Northwood as Randy Mixter but never knew him. Reading all of the heartfelt and funny stories of his youth made me feel like I have known him all along!! What a fun trip down memory lane which took me back to a simpler time in life! Way to go Randy!!! By Carol CrouseIt was wonderful to go back to a far less complicated time when typically the only things needed to have fun were a few kids, a fertile imagination, and at times, a ball of any sort. This quick read puts a smile on your face and makes you feel young again. Knowing the Northwood area of Baltimore and the characters added to my enjoyment but anyone growing up in the 60s and 70s can enjoy and relate to this entertaining book. By Lynda Davidson You need to get this book! It's filled with wonderful funny stories of a group of best friends growing up in the 60's in Baltimore. No matter where you are from, if you are in this age group it will take you back. The stories are true as my husband WAS ONE of the Northwooders featured in the book and was priviledged to be a part of these best friends. What John Waters has accomplished in film for Baltimore, Randy has accomplished it in print. By Mary O'Keefe Oh the memories! The Boys of Northwood is a collection of interesting memoirs from Randy Mixter's childhood of the 1950s and teenage years of the 1960s. I have never met the author, but I am the same age as him, went to school in Northwood, and had several friends who lived there. Many of the Baltimore area places that Mr. Mixter writes about were also ones I frequented. After reading this entertaining book, I felt a strong urge to write about my own childhood adventures!  |
