Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra

From Ms. Fradkin’s website: The Cedric O’Toole short novels are part of Orca Book Publishers’ Rapid Reads series designed for the reluctant or emerging reader. Fast paced and easy to read, they have adult content and adult themes, so they are also perfect for someone looking for a quick and entertaining read for the airplane, doctor’s office or just a lazy afternoon.

Blood Ties is the fourth book in the Cedric O’Toole series by Barbara Fradkin. I am jumping into this series at book four, with no difficulty whatsoever. There was sufficient background information that it was easy to jump into Cedric O’Toole’s life at this point in time. And I must say – I love the writing of Canadian author Barbara Fradkin.

Cedric Elvis O’Toole (known as Rick) is living peacefully on his farm in eastern Ontario (Lake Madrid to be exact) when out of the blue a stranger arrives (Steve Lilley) and declares himself as Rick’s brother…well… stepbrother that is. Steve wants answers – do they share the same father? As Steve and Rick begin to uncover the truth regarding their kinship, Rick must come to terms with what is discovered and delve into areas of his life that he has essentially ignored for a very long time. He must also react at times to save Steve as Steve tends to act without always thinking things through (not necessarily a good trait).

While I am not usually a fan of short stories (160 pages), I did find that the story was fulsome enough that I was not left wanting, other than to read the previous books in the series so that I have the complete story of Cedric. If you have a few hours to spare and are looking for an entertaining, and easy to read story, then might I suggest picking up Blood Ties by Barbara Fradkin. You will enjoy the read!

I really enjoyed this book and look forward to more from this author. The storyline was interesting and easy to follow. Loved the characters.

Thanks Netgalley for this arc.