If you’ve read my work before, you know me for epic fantasy or faith-based nonfiction. Burnt Ends is neither—but it might be the most fun I’ve had writing a novel yet.

Set in 1983 Piney Woods, Texas, Burnt Ends is a Southern grit story about two men on the edge of redemption and ruin.

Ralph “Sticks” Efferland is an ex-con and former pool hustler trying to go straight—though his version of straight is still evolving. Peter Stone is a former stockbroker trying to rebuild his life without calling it a comeback. Together, they’re running a barbecue food truck and trying to stay out of trouble.

Trouble finds them anyway.

In a town where everyone’s hustling something—votes, power, people—Sticks and Stone get caught up in the kind of pressure that makes men choose who they really are.

If you like stories with grit, quiet faith, and the slow burn of men trying to do better, this one’s for you.

📘 Burnt Ends is available now:

• Direct from me at books.by/bernonbooks#burnt-ends
• Or on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F89944HB

If you pick it up, let me know what you think—or tell a friend. Stories spread better that way.