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Around here, community means everything. Dodie’s Rockwall has always been more than a place to eat. It’s where friends gather, families celebrate, and neighbors lend a hand. On Tuesday, November 18, we’re inviting our community to join us in supporting a Forney family whose story of faith and strength has touched our hearts.

Emily was diagnosed with Friedreich’s Ataxia (FA) at just 15 years old. FA is a rare, progressive neurological disease that affects balance, coordination, and muscle strength. When doctors shared that Emily would likely need a wheelchair by her early twenties, it was one of those moments that stops time — when life suddenly looks different, yet love and determination grow even stronger. Instead of giving in to fear, Emily and her parents, Alexis and Richard Penn, chose resilience and light.

Now 32 and living near the Forney-Heath area, Emily is married with four children. She lives life fully — cooking, caring for her family, and adapting with remarkable strength and grace. As her mother describes it, “So many people facing disabilities have a choice: to live in darkness or in the light. We’ve always chosen the light.”

Through their involvement with the Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA), the Penn family has seen extraordinary progress firsthand. What began as a small grassroots organization in 1998 has grown into a powerful research network driving more than 13 clinical trials and the first FDA-approved treatment for FA, released just last year. About 95% of every dollar raised goes directly toward research which includes things like genetic therapy, protein restoration, and other promising paths to a cure.

The Penn's believe strongly in what the community and research can accomplish. “We’ve been riding this train for 17 years, and we’re not stopping,” Alexis said says. “I tell Emily — she’s 32 now — ‘You’re going to see a cure in your lifetime.’” For them, fundraising isn’t just about treatment — it’s about faith in the future and the belief that every small act of kindness brings that future closer.

On Tuesday, November 18, Dodie’s will donate 25% of all dinner food sales to FARA in Emily’s honor, helping to fund ongoing studies and provide hope for families living with FA.

Bring your friends, your family, and your appetite — because every meal makes a difference!

Neighbors for a Cure: Dodie’s Give Back Night

Tuesday, November 18

Dine-in only | 4–10 PM

25% of all dinner food sales donated to Friedreich’s Ataxia Research

No flyer needed — all dine-in dinner guests count toward the donation.

Explore our menu: https://dodiesattheharbor.com/menu/

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When a child enters a cancer battle, families rarely consider how treatments will affect teeth. However, life-saving measures, particularly chemotherapy and radiation, have immediate and future consequences on oral health. 

Dr. Carolyn A. Kerins, associate professor and graduate program director in the pediatric dentistry department at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas, said a dental visit should be scheduled before treatment starts. The dentist needs to ensure the child’s teeth and gums are stable and eliminate any potential sources of infection, including cavities. 

“Ideally, all children should have a dental home and see the dentist every six months,” Kerins said. “The dental home includes preventative care services such as fluoride and sealants, restorative services and emergency care.” 

For children facing cancer, it’s imperative. Chemotherapy involves drugs that affect the entire body, and the effects and extent depend on the timing of the cancer treatment and the stage of tooth development. 

“Cancer treatment can halt the cellular division of tooth buds that are responsible for forming the permanent teeth,” said Kerins, who’s also on staff at Children’s Health in Dallas and specializes in complicated pediatric cases. “Calcification of the permanent teeth starts before birth for some teeth, and complete tooth formation up to eruption may take three to five years. 

“Since chemotherapy stuns the process, a child may experience delayed loss of primary teeth and formation of permanent teeth and the emergence of those permanent teeth.” 

Radiation’s effects depend on the dose and time. Radiation to the head and neck causes more issues to teeth and mouth, breaking down oral tissue, salivary glands and bone. This can lead to mucositis – inflammation of a mucous membrane – dry mouth, increased cavities and tissue death. 

“If all the permanent teeth are fully formed and erupted, the child is still at increased risk for tooth decay and periodontal disease,” Kerins said. 

If radiation is at a high dose or starts when permanent teeth are developing, teeth can stop growing and likely won’t recover, she said. If a tooth develops, it’s often without a full root and could fall out. In some cases, teeth may be extracted before cancer treatments because they aren’t restorable because of cavities or an infection in a tooth’s nerve. 

Other common dental problems are dry mouth, which can lead to more cavities; mouth sores and ulcers; altered sense of taste; fungal infections; oral pain and jaw tightening. 

“Patients are encouraged to reach out to their dentist if they experience these symptoms,” Kerins said. 

Cancer treatment is a long process. 

“It’s usually a two-year experience,” she said. “Kids are going to miss school… the peer groups may shift, often complicating parenting. A strong social support network surrounded by a team of physicians and dentists will yield the best outcome.” 

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The Melissa Pierce Project marked a major milestone for South Dallas’ Joppee neighborhood on October 22, breaking ground on The Place at Honey Springs, a redevelopment effort that will transform the former Melissa Pierce School into a new community hub.

Dozens of residents, families, and community partners gathered to plant 30 trees on the site. Volunteers were invited to name their trees, which will soon feature custom markers recognizing their participation. The event was organized in partnership with the Texas Trees Foundation and Budd Family Foundation.

“It’s a wonderful experience,” said Shalondria Galimore, CEO and Founder of The Melissa Pierce Project. “It’s been a long time coming, and this is the beginning. We’re building a space the community can enjoy and take pride in.”

Volunteers from TAMKO Building Products from both Dallas and Missouri contributed their time and effort alongside neighborhood volunteers.

“We’re proud to support The Melissa Pierce Project and the ongoing work to beautify and revitalize this historic neighborhood,” said Jason White, General Manager Dallas TAMKO. “These trees will provide lasting shade and a welcoming space for the community to enjoy.”

“There’s one thing to be a sponsor or donor, but to have them show up and work with us means so much” Galimore said. “We’re deeply grateful for TAMKO’s continued commitment to this community.”

The event also drew support from Remembering Black Dallas Inc., City of Dallas Code Compliance Services, and numerous other community members.

Reviving a Historic Space

The Place at Honey Springs, designed by Citizen HKS, the pro-bono studio of Dallas-based architecture firm HKS Inc., will repurpose the 1950s-era Melissa Pierce School into a community and recreation center. Plans include classrooms, a recording studio, gymnasium and pool, community gardens, and spaces for health and wellness programs.

The name “Honey Springs” honors the area’s original identity and reflects the project’s goal of reconnecting Joppee residents with their roots.

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Kitchen Design Concepts

The 49th Annual Lakewood Home Tour is set to return November 8–9, 2025, celebrating one of East Dallas’s most beloved neighborhood traditions. Among this year’s featured homes is a beautifully reimagined residence by the award-winning team at Kitchen Design Concepts.

The home, belonging to designers Mary Kathryn Reese and Katie Bacon, showcases a full interior and exterior renovation with thoughtful detailing, custom furnishings, and timeless styling. Visitors will get an inside look at the design process and craftsmanship that bring this East Dallas gem to life.

Proceeds from the Lakewood Home Tour benefit East Dallas public schools — Lakewood Elementary, J.L. Long Middle School, and Woodrow Wilson High School — supporting local education through community engagement and design appreciation.

Tour Details:

  • When: Saturday & Sunday, November 8–9, 2025

  • Where: Lakewood, Dallas, TX

  • Daytime Tour: 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

  • Candlelight Tour: Saturday, 7 p.m.–9:30 p.m.

 

Tickets:

  • Daytime Weekend Pass – $45

  • Candlelight Tour Ticket – $60

  • VIP Candlelight Tour – $95

Tickets are available now here: https://lakewoodhometour.ticketspice.com/lakewood-home-tour 

This year’s event promises a weekend filled with inspiration, design, and community pride — a true celebration of Lakewood’s spirit and creativity.

 

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2 Photo by Bill Brock-White Rock Films LLC-resized Steering Committee for 2026 Junior Symphony Ball

Junior Symphony Ball Steering Committee TicketSell Out in Record Time

General Admission ticketwill be availabliearly January

 

Tickets for the Junior Symphony Ball (JSB)Steering Committee sold out in record time this year. 1,130 tickets were quickly snapped up—leaving hundreds of eager students and parents disappointed and waiting for their next chance when general admission tickets go on sale in early January. This year’s release included more tickets than last year, yet they sold out within the month.

The 68th Annual JSB will take place on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Gilley’s Dallas,which will be transformed into an electrifying hub of music, dancing, and celebration. More than 2,800 sophomores, juniors, and seniors from over 25 area schools are expected to attend. Returning this year is Detroit native Brandon Williams, the high-energy DJ known professionally as 13LACKBEARD.As the official DJ of the Dallas Cowboys, he’s a master of creating an unbeatable atmosphere—bringing that same stadium-level excitement to JSB.

The Steering Committee members gathered at the Meyerson Symphony Center to pick up their t-shirts and pose for a Leadership photo. They also took the opportunity to bring goody bags for student performers in the Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s Young Musicians Program, a thoughtful gesture that extends JSB’s impact beyond the dance floor. Donations of school supplies and personal care items were collected and will be distributed to Young Musicians students throughout the year. The Kim Noltemy Young Musicians Program is a year-round, tuition-free music education initiative of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, serving students in grades 1–8 across southern Dallas. The program provides free instruments and instruction, helping children build both musical and life skills through the power of performance.

The lineup of the 2026 Co-Chairs represents schools across Dallas: Clara Erwin (Highland Park High School), Lucy Galbraith (Ursuline Academy), Meghan Jackson (Parish Episcopal School), TeigMitchell(Jesuit College Preparatory of Dallas), Peter Rubi (St. Mark's  School of Texas), Brooks Strey (Bishop Lynch High School), Jack Sumner (Highland Park High School), Mary Bradley Sutherland (The Hockaday School), Michael Woram(Jesuit College Preparatory of Dallas), and Stella Wynne(The Episcopal School of Dallas).

Their supportive and proud moms are: Dansby Erwin, Lauren Sutherland, Michelene Galbraith, Alyson Jackson, Kristin Mitchell, Tiffany Rubi, Courtenay Strey, Kelsie Sumner, Dana Woram, and Tia Wynne.

Now in its 68th year, the Junior Symphony Ball remains the longest-running fundraiser of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League (DSOL). It continues to support vital youth programs including Young Strings and Young Musicians. True to its founding vision of “student-led,parent-guided” leadership, JSB has grown from a small gathering of local schools into one of Dallas’s most anticipated youth events—while staying true to its core mission of advancing music education and community engagement.

 

Junior Symphony Ball

Junior Symphony Ball was formed to introduce Dallas area students to the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, a cultural gem to our city, and in turn, teach them about giving back to the community by hosting the student-led fundraiser.

Participation on a JSB committee teaches high school teens valuable leadership, organizational, and team-work skills while raising significant dollars for a worthy cause. JSB creates a unique opportunity for students from a multitude of backgrounds to work  together for a common goal and a positive contribution to their greater community. Both private and public schools from all across the Metroplex organize, participate, fundraise and attend the JSB.

JSB is a time honored tradition and a great first foray into giving back to the community and supporting music education on a larger scale. Proceeds benefit Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s community outreach and education programs,  including  Young Strings and Young Musicians that will benefit over 14,000 students, making a positive impact for under- served youth in Dallas and throughout North Texas.

Follow JSB on Social Media

Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/JSBdallas/ Instagram @jsbdallas

Dallas Symphony Orchestra League

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League is an organization of volunteers who support the Dallas Symphony Association through service, education and fundraising activities.

Since 1946, the DSO League has worked to support the Dallas Symphony Orchestra through service, education and fundraising efforts. The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League has contributed more than $25 million in support of the Dallas Symphony Association’s Community Outreach and Education programs, which help bring the wonder of music to thousands of youths and adults in the Dallas area.

Beneficiaries 

Funds raised by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League support transformative DSO programs, including:

 

  • The Cecil and Ida Green Youth Concert Series, which introduces Dallas youth to the inspiring world of classical music through accessible concerts at the Meyerson. Each year, more than 10,000 children participate in these experiences.
  • DSO Cares, which brings the wellness benefits of music to seniors in living facilities, hospitals, community centers and more. Each performance showcases a chamber ensemble of DSO musicians that is free for attendees and community partners.
  • The Kim Noltemy Young Musicians and Young Strings programs, which annually provide free instruments and instruction to 400 children primarily from Southern and East Dallas. Collectively, these programs have served more than 6,800 students and outpace similar youth programs with highly intensive training and a 100% high school graduation and college acceptance rate.
  • Bach’s Lunch, an ongoing adult education series of free, informal talks designed to connect music lovers through a shared passion for classical music. 

 

For further information: www.dallassymphonyleague/com

Follow DSOL on Social Media

Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/DSOLvolunteers Instagram @dsoleague

 

Photos by Bill Brock – White Rock Films, LLC 

Keto photos:

1 Steering Committee for 2026 Junior Symphony Ball 

2 2026 Co-chairs

Back Row: Teige Mitchell (Jesuit), Jack Sumner (HP), Peter Rubi (St. Mark's), Brooks Strey (Bishop Lynch), Michael Woram (Jesuit) 

Front Row: Mary Bradley Sutherland (Hockaday), Lucy Galbraith (Ursuline), Clara Erwin (HP), Meghan Jackson (Parish), Stella Wynne (ESD)

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The Dallas PULSE, North Texas’ first professional women’s volleyball team, has officially released its 2026 season schedule.

The Dallas PULSE, North Texas’ first professional women’s volleyball team, has officially released its 2026 season schedule — and the excitement is building fast. The team will open its inaugural season at Comerica Center in Frisco on Saturday, January 10, hosting the Indiana franchise in front of an electric home crowd.

“Dallas is known for passionate sports fans, and we can’t wait to bring that same energy courtside for professional women’s volleyball,” said Grady Raskin, Dallas PULSE CEO. “From our home opener to the final serve of the season, Dallas PULSE will deliver an unmatched experience for fans and sponsors. Now’s the time to get in early with a deposit on season tickets while fans can choose premium seating.”

The Dallas PULSE home schedule includes marquee matchups against Indy, San Diego, Omaha, Grand Rapids, Columbus, Atlanta, and Orlando, all hosted in the setting of Comerica Center, where fans can feel every hit, dig, and ace up close.

Home matches include:

  • Sat, Jan. 10 – Indy
  • Thu, Jan. 15 – San Diego
  • Thu, Feb. 5 – Omaha
  • Sun, Feb. 8 – Grand Rapids
  • Thu, Feb. 19 – Indy
  • Sun, Feb. 22 – Grand Rapids
  • Fri, Feb. 27 – Orlando
  • Fri, Mar. 13 – Columbus
  • Sun, Mar. 15 – Atlanta
  • Sat, Mar. 21 – San Diego
  • Thu, Mar. 26 – Atlanta
  • Fri, Apr. 17 – Columbus
  • Fri, May 1 – Omaha
  • Sun, May 3 – Orlando

Deposits for season ticket holders are now available on the Dallas PULSE website for home games at Comerica Center in Frisco. 

“Volleyball has deep roots in Texas, and the PULSE represents the next evolution of that passion,” Raskin added. “This team isn’t just part of the game — it’s shaping the future of women’s sports in Dallas.”

Leading the team is Head Coach Shannon Winzer, a respected international coach known for developing elite talent and championship-caliber teams. As the team’s first head coach, Winzer brings a wealth of international experience and a strong record of success to North Texas as the franchise prepares to kick off its inaugural season.

Dallas PULSE holds the number one overall pick in the Major League Volleyball draft on November 24, followed by the opening of training camp in December — all leading up to Dallas’ debut on the national stage in January.

From courtside energy to community engagement, Dallas PULSE promises more than just great volleyball — it’s a movement. Fans can grab official Dallas PULSE merchandise now at dallasPULSEvb.com to be ready for the inaugural season. 

Sponsorships and premium experiences are also available now for brands ready to join the momentum behind one of the fastest-growing women’s sports in America.

The Dallas PULSE is North Texas’ first women’s professional volleyball team, competing in Major League Volleyball’s 2026 season. Based at Comerica Center in Frisco, Dallas PULSE echoes the energy, and heart of Dallas-Fort Worth – home to one of the nation’s largest and most passionate volleyball communities. For more information about the team, visit Dallas PULSE or follow the team on social media channels at @DallasPULSEVB for schedule updates, roster announcements, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Major League Volleyball, entering its third season, is the longest-running formal professional volleyball league for women in the United States. Designed to elevate the sport through world class competition, commercial innovation, and cultural relevance, MLV brings together elite athletes, visionary leadership, and global ambition. With alignment to USA Volleyball and a commitment to Olympic development, MLV serves as the premier pathway from professional play to the world stage. 

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Dr. Bryan Henderson II

Dr. Bryan Henderson II, a dentist anesthesiologist and adjunct professor in Texas A&M University College of Dentistry’s Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department, was recently appointed chair of the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners by Gov. Greg Abbott. The board regulates the practice of dentistry, dental hygiene and other dental-related professions. 

Henderson is a longtime member of the board and will serve until his most recent term ends in February 2029. In his new role, he will oversee the agency’s various regulatory committees and preside over the board meetings.  

The 11-member board meets quarterly, as well as for informal settlement sessions. The board includes six dentists, three dental hygienists and two members of the public. Each term is six years, and no board member may serve more than two consecutive terms. 

As the presiding officer, Henderson maintains order and steers discussions that impact public policy. 

“Our duty is to the people of Texas,” said Henderson, who chaired TSBDE’s anesthesia committee since 2018. “We’re committed to building trust through transparency and moving forward in a way that benefits every community we serve.”  

Dr. Likith Reddy, professor and head of oral and maxillofacial surgery at A&M Dentistry, praised Henderson. 

“His understanding of the profession, combined with his leadership, will make him an ideal choice for this role,” Reddy said. 

Henderson earned his dental degree in 1987 from Baylor College of Dentistry, now A&M Dentistry, before joining the faculty in 1989 and serving in several full- and part-time teaching positions. Henderson owns a practice in Dallas and provides care at Disability Dental Services in Grand Prairie about once a month. 

Henderson earned a certificate in anesthesia from Medical College of Pennsylvania, now Drexel University College of Medicine and is a past president of the American Society of Dentist Anesthesiologists.  

 

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DQ® restaurants in Texas are serving up the ultimate comfort meal with the return of Chicken & Dumplings.

As Texas temperatures cool off, participating DQ® restaurants in Texas are serving up the ultimate comfort meal with the return of Chicken & Dumplings. This hearty classic combines tender chicken, savory gravy, and soft, fluffy dumplings for a meal filled with nostalgic flavors that feel like home. Perfect for crisp fall days, it's a delicious way to warm up and embrace the Lone Star State's cold-weather traditions.

“Chicken & Dumplings is one of those hidden gems on our menu that continue to delight guests each season,” said Lou Romanus, CEO of the Texas Dairy Queen Operator’s Council. “Inspired by a cherished family recipe from a DQ restaurant owner’s mom, our Chicken & Dumplings are rich, delicious, and the ultimate comfort food that keeps our guests coming back for more.”

DQ fans can enjoy Chicken & Dumplings in 12-,16- and 32-ounce servings, perfect for dine in, drive-thru and take-out, as well as delivery, where available. This fan-favorite dish will be available at participating DQ restaurants in Texas. 

For more than 78 years, DQ restaurants in Texas have been friendly, gathering spots where fans enjoy delicious treats and eats and create fond memories. To be the first to learn about Blizzard of the Month flavors, new product news from the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council or find a store location, follow us on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook or visit dqtexas.com.

About Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council 

There are few brands as iconic as the DQ brand. Innovative DQ treats and eats, along with the unique DQ restaurant concepts, have positioned DQ restaurants in Texas as a leader in the quick service restaurant industry. The Texas Dairy Queen Operators' Council is a nonprofit organization made up of DQ franchisees operating in Texas. The Council develops the advertising and marketing program for DQ franchisees in Texas and controls the Texas Country Foods menu along with managing supply/distribution for the DQ restaurants in Texas. The DQ restaurants in Texas are franchised by American Dairy Queen Corporation and the DQ franchise system includes approximately 7,000 franchised locations in the United States, Canada, and more than 20 other countries. 




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The Stewpot's 50th Russ Coleman, The Stewpot chair of community ministries; Buddy Jordan, The Stewpot starter; Brenda Snitzer, The Stewpot Executive Director; Bea Njuguna, Stewpot Alliance President; Rev. Amos Disasa, First Presbyterian Church of Dallas Senior Pastor

The Stewpot marked its 50th anniversary on October 24th with a lively celebration at its new campus on Malcolm X Blvd., joined by founders, supporters, elected officials and staff.

The Dallas Street Choir, led by Dr. Jonathan Palant, opened the program with spirited performances of “Put a Little Love in Your Heart” and “Love Train,” setting a joyful the mood for the event.

The Stewpot Executive Director Brenda Snitzer welcomed close to 100 guests, followed by an invocation given by The Rev. Amos Disasa, Senior Pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Dallas.

Dallas County Commissioner Dr. Theresa Daniel congratulated The Stewpot and highlighted the strong partnership between the county and The Stewpot. Daniel then presented Snitzer with a proclamation.

Mayor Pro Tem Jesse Moreno also gave The Stewpot a proclamation from the City of Dallas and applauded the ongoing partnership between the two organizations.

Snitzer shared remarks about The Stewpot’s beginnings, growth and legacy of love in action.

“The true heartbeat of our mission is in the quiet, everyday moments of service. One neighbor connecting with another. Serving a meal. Giving time and resources to make the way easier for someone who is struggling,” Snitzer said. “We see suffering every day at The Stewpot, but we also see joy, compassion and hope.”

Sam Allen, Wood Street Worship Music Director at First Presbyterian Church, led the group in singing “Happy Birthday” as colorful streamers rained down in front of the stage.

Guests enjoyed cake and refreshments, toured the campus and received copies of Thy Neighbor: Stories of Struggle, Strength, and Shared Humanity, a curated book with articles and artwork created by neighbors to celebrate “50 Years of Loving Our Neighbors.”

This year, Dallas nonprofit The Stewpot, a mission of First Presbyterian Church of Dallas, celebrates “50 Years of Loving Our Neighbors” and its long tradition of love in action. Since 1975, The Stewpot has served more than 9 million meals and has grown to provide comprehensive services and a community of support to help people overcome poverty and homelessness. Visit thestewpot.org/50-years for more information.

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Sun Tzu’s Café

by

Dr. Eric Bornstein

 

Top drawer espionage/revenge story combining fact and fiction for a rivetingly realistic thriller.

 

The espionage thriller, Sun Tzu’s Café by Dr. Eric Bornstein, is an absolutely riveting read, combining fact and fiction, historical and current events, historical figures and engaging fictional characters. It is a tale of insidious revenge, eked out over many decades until some of the main players practically become institutional memories. I was glued to this story! 

Li Qiang is a good son; he loves and honors his parents and accepts his father’s generational desire for revenge against the country of his birth (the U.S.), passed down from HIS father, without question. He’s smart and excels at school, and just when he left college to begin his own life, he was snatched up by the U.S. government to be used in secret, unethical research. The story of his twenty-five years at the mercy of the government is incredibly tragic and heart-wrenching. Even knowing his goal was to destroy the U.S., I still rooted for him to escape his life of servitude in the name of false patriotism. I was conflicted about how I felt about this character until the end. 

Similarly, I ached for the position young Dr. Guilford Champlain finds himself in. Deliberately and ironically, Qiang manipulates the young Ph.D. student into the same program he himself abhors. Both had little choice but to comply and were trapped, weighed down by the same disgust of what the government was doing. 

Throughout the story, the author cites sources for names, events, science, and technology, establishing which specific elements are factual rather than fiction. Some of the issues involved, such as the prohibition of the TikTok app on government devices, are amazingly timely. I wondered, as I read, how much I assumed was fictional I was wrong about; it was plausible and so realistic. 

The tension builds slowly at first but gradually and increases until it’s almost in full panic mode by the eleventh-hour climax. At this point, the author alters his chapter lengths to almost paragraph size, switching between the points of view of those involved in the unfolding excitement, each ending with a cliffhanger as the perspective changes. The action was breathtaking and edge-of-your-seat stuff, and no one will put this book down when they get to this point of the story. 

I enjoyed the interesting mix of historical figures with fictional characters and the saga-like span of time the book covers. The story is well-paced, even with its inclusion of the scientific and technical descriptions of the processes under investigation and the history of the different eras. The footnotes could keep readers busy going down rabbit holes for weeks after reading the story. 

With its highly sympathetic characters, clever, long-haul plot, and historical settings, I recommend SUN TZU’S CAFÉ to readers of espionage tales, revenge stories, family sagas, and political thrillers. 

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy through RABT Book Tours and PR.