@BzKevin You may want to take a look at this workflow from @Carmelo_DrRaw: [Play Raw] Luminosity masks - #22 by Carmelo_DrRaw
That workflow has also been scrutinized here: [Solved] hdr workflow - ask for guidance
But now he came with this new PhotoFlow tool: PhotoFlow - new dynamic range compressor tool (experimental). It is aimed at replacing the first workflow I mentioned above.