Two long-time Union County residents and siblings recently published their own novels. Michael Bowling and his sister, Tracey Bolser, both wrote and published separate novels, both of which are available for purchase on Amazon.

Michael’s book, titled “A Cold War Sailor’s Story: From Small Town America to Measured Success,” is written as a memoir of his time in the United States Navy. His entire service, 20 years and four days is encapsulated between the covers of this book. All of his memories, all of his good times and bad times, all of the hurt, all of the pain, and all of the vibrancy are told in such wholesome and raw detail.

Michael’s telling of his story is not meant to be a deterrent or a concept of choice, but rather the unfiltered truth about what the service is like and how those experiences can shape you as a person.

“I wrote it for posterity’s sake. I see a lot of social media posts about service questions and the target audience is veterans,” Michael explains, when asked about why he wrote the book.

“If you don’t write it down, it didn’t happen,” he adds.

Michael’s book is a riveting recount of past events that he hopes to share and spread his story. While he hasn’t done any guest appearances, he is open to them so that if there are questions, he can provide answers.

“I hope, through my book, that other people can understand the hardships and challenges that come with military service. This life isn’t for everyone, but it’s rewarding too.”

Michael graduated in 1979. Now retired, Michael enjoys gardening, indulging in some traveling, and writing in his spare time. He explains that he always tries to write three to five pages per day, and even plans to finish up his second book soon.

This one will be a harrowing tale of war between two countries and Michael plans to put his own spin on the events to keep his readers on the edge of their seats.

His sister, Tracey, chose fiction for her first book. Titled “Blood,” this novel is a tale of revenge, secrets, and the inescapable consequences of actions.

“Blood” is a compelling and thrilling story of a young man, Charlie, who is often in trouble and making bad choices. These stem from his lack of a father figure and with no set discipline, Charlie ultimately delves further into trouble as he is left to grapple with the repercussions that he brought upon himself.

However, when he uncovers a long-hidden family secret, Charlie has no choice but to tighten his grip on reality as he navigates the truth and lies of his lineage.

Based in her previous hometown of College Corner, Tracey delivers a tale of resilience, power, sacrifice, and personal reflection. Charlie’s dark story showcases the deep fractures within himself and family, further clashing against the steadfast values of College Corner - compromise and unity.

As Charlie fights to fix every wrong, readers are filled with varying emotions of dread, hope, anger, shock, pain, and relief. With each page, readers are hooked as they dangle on the cusp of every new development.

“I’ve always wanted to write. I have so many notes and small stories I have written,” Tracey explains.

With her first book out, Tracey goes on to explain that she also has her second book nearly finished and this one ties in with “Blood” as the main villain’s origin story. She hopes readers will see and enjoy the creativity, will relate to certain events, and use this incredible fiction piece as an understanding of responsibility.

Tracey graduated in 1988 and while not retired, she and her husband love to ride motorcycles and have small hangouts. Most of her free time is dedicated to writing and sharing her dozens of ideas with the world.

You can check out Michael and Tracey’s books on Amazon and see for yourself why these are must-reads.