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Swallowtail
Chicago wife, mother and finance executive Claire Cummings, arrives at work one morning to discover her friend Julia has embezzled millions and vanished. Blindsided and devastated by the betrayal, she’s sent home pending further investigation. Claire’s bizarre death the following day sends everyone reeling, guessing and looking for her in all the wrong places. In no time she's addicted to an enchanting menagerie of tricks and techniques for getting the living's attention, but most people are harder to reach than she'd ever dreamed and even harder to set free. She was still a mother, a wife, a daughter and a friend... she'd move heaven and earth to keep it that way. Sheri Meshal’s Swallowtail is a haunting story about life, love, loss and just how far we’ll go to control it all. This debut from a thought-provoking new voice in fiction begs the question… what would you do if all the rules changed, and you were suddenly bestowed powers beyond your greatest imagination?
352 pages, Paperback
First published September 10, 2012
18 people are currently reading
579 people want to read
About the author
Sheri Meshal
7 books223 followersSheri Meshal spent most of her childhood on an old farm in Iowa. She loves dogs, neuroscience, reading and mini-triathlons. When she isn’t writing, she’s hanging out with her nieces and nephews every chance she gets. She currently lives in Chicago with her boyfriend, Gabe and her dog, Jessica.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
December 13, 2015
Sometimes you find a book that you connect to instantly even before reading the story, as soon as I saw the book cover and read the book description I knew that this was my type of book and I had to read it. I had such high expectations that when the book arrived as well as being excited to start reading, I was also a little hesitant just incase. The author has written an absolutely amazing heart warming story that actually allows the reader to be there feeling the emotions and sharing the experiences throughout the book.
The story follows a bank cashier called Claire, who's closest colleague Julia has ran away with three million dollars and due to their closeness most people assume Claire is also involved. Claire is tragically killed leaving her husband and two children behind. When she awakes she finds her cherished and loving Nana waiting for her on the other side and feels the warmth all around her. There are many spiritual and life lessons that Claire must remember and learn under the guidance of Nana and her spiritual guides and she must weigh what she has lost against what she has gained.
I was drawn into the book immediately, the author has included so many different aspects to the story it really is a joy to read. Throughout the book I felt my heart pull at times and wanted to reach out to help Claire as she feels distraught, helpless and desperate to communicate, reading the poignant emotional attempts of contacting her family is extremely moving and touching as well as sometimes being quite humorous and yet I also felt joy and comfort as the story came together.
The soft, delicate and imaginative way the author describes certain things in the book is truly beautiful. There are two small parts of the book in particular that I keep remembering that really took hold of me as if I was there in the story. Claire is holding onto too much pain leaving her loved ones behind and still wanting to take part in their lives so she is taken to the tapestry of life by her guardian angel Cal. Each life has a thread and each thread creates the tapestry of life, Claire is shown that by pulling threads, keeping hold of what has gone, can alter the affect of the whole tapestry. The tapestry takes a hold of Clare and she fights against it until she can fight no more but then senses the warmth and safe feeling from it, all her negativity leaves her and she is free and blissful. I was truly there with Claire at that moment as well as being able to imagine her spiritual guide Ahma as the author describes her appearing waist deep in a meadow of voilet wildflowers.
This is quite a special book, filled with love and even thought provoking. This book is now firmly in the top three of my all time favourite books that I will always treasure and I highly recommend this deeply moving and joyous book to you all.
The story follows a bank cashier called Claire, who's closest colleague Julia has ran away with three million dollars and due to their closeness most people assume Claire is also involved. Claire is tragically killed leaving her husband and two children behind. When she awakes she finds her cherished and loving Nana waiting for her on the other side and feels the warmth all around her. There are many spiritual and life lessons that Claire must remember and learn under the guidance of Nana and her spiritual guides and she must weigh what she has lost against what she has gained.
I was drawn into the book immediately, the author has included so many different aspects to the story it really is a joy to read. Throughout the book I felt my heart pull at times and wanted to reach out to help Claire as she feels distraught, helpless and desperate to communicate, reading the poignant emotional attempts of contacting her family is extremely moving and touching as well as sometimes being quite humorous and yet I also felt joy and comfort as the story came together.
The soft, delicate and imaginative way the author describes certain things in the book is truly beautiful. There are two small parts of the book in particular that I keep remembering that really took hold of me as if I was there in the story. Claire is holding onto too much pain leaving her loved ones behind and still wanting to take part in their lives so she is taken to the tapestry of life by her guardian angel Cal. Each life has a thread and each thread creates the tapestry of life, Claire is shown that by pulling threads, keeping hold of what has gone, can alter the affect of the whole tapestry. The tapestry takes a hold of Clare and she fights against it until she can fight no more but then senses the warmth and safe feeling from it, all her negativity leaves her and she is free and blissful. I was truly there with Claire at that moment as well as being able to imagine her spiritual guide Ahma as the author describes her appearing waist deep in a meadow of voilet wildflowers.
This is quite a special book, filled with love and even thought provoking. This book is now firmly in the top three of my all time favourite books that I will always treasure and I highly recommend this deeply moving and joyous book to you all.
January 28, 2013
KIRKUS REVIEW
In Meshal’s debut novel, a loving wife and mother must find a way to comfort her family after a traumatic loss: her own disappearance.
Claire Cummings starts her workday at a small-town bank with a discovery that her close friend and colleague has absconded with millions of dollars of the bank’s money. Claire feels betrayed and deeply shaken when she comes under suspicion and is suspended from her job. The next day, while trying to chase down a stray cat in a parking lot, Claire is hit by a car and killed. However, the peace she feels on “the other side” shatters when she realizes that her family and friends don’t know she is dead—they only know that she’s missing. She uses all of her new supernatural abilities to place signs in order to communicate to them where she is, but she soon finds that she has to defy the new rules of her celestial world. Meshal tells a beautifully nuanced story. Throughout, she weaves intriguing details into a compelling story; for example, it turns out that Em, Claire’s youngest daughter, can repeat what her mother says from beyond, but because she has a speech impediment, the messages aren’t always understood by others. Also, just when it seems that the initial embezzlement subplot has been forgotten, it returns with a supernatural twist. Meshal skillfully blends past lives, celestial lives and earthly lives in ways that never feel forced, and she doesn’t rush her characters into self-discovery but seamlessly leads them there. In the end, the story builds to an unexpected, powerful climax.
A captivating novel about love, redemption and the supernatural.
In Meshal’s debut novel, a loving wife and mother must find a way to comfort her family after a traumatic loss: her own disappearance.
Claire Cummings starts her workday at a small-town bank with a discovery that her close friend and colleague has absconded with millions of dollars of the bank’s money. Claire feels betrayed and deeply shaken when she comes under suspicion and is suspended from her job. The next day, while trying to chase down a stray cat in a parking lot, Claire is hit by a car and killed. However, the peace she feels on “the other side” shatters when she realizes that her family and friends don’t know she is dead—they only know that she’s missing. She uses all of her new supernatural abilities to place signs in order to communicate to them where she is, but she soon finds that she has to defy the new rules of her celestial world. Meshal tells a beautifully nuanced story. Throughout, she weaves intriguing details into a compelling story; for example, it turns out that Em, Claire’s youngest daughter, can repeat what her mother says from beyond, but because she has a speech impediment, the messages aren’t always understood by others. Also, just when it seems that the initial embezzlement subplot has been forgotten, it returns with a supernatural twist. Meshal skillfully blends past lives, celestial lives and earthly lives in ways that never feel forced, and she doesn’t rush her characters into self-discovery but seamlessly leads them there. In the end, the story builds to an unexpected, powerful climax.
A captivating novel about love, redemption and the supernatural.
April 7, 2013
Ok so I must first start out by saying this book was nothing like what I thought it was! I thought this was a crazy murder mystery and it turns out I was right but not really. I mean there was a death and it was a mystery to some of the main characters but as the reader you know what happened so the mystery was implied just not there. You begin this book thinking it would be all about the bank and the missing millions and you end up about 40 pages into the story not even caring about that part of the story at all!
Now does that mean I didn't like the book? Absolutely not! I loved this book! So much so that I read it in about 3 days and I still had to cook, clean, and work 2 jobs all while wedding planning! This book couldn't have come at a better time. I started it after I had a strange back injury happen when I was napping. I don't know what I did in my sleep but not only did I still feel awful (I took the nap because I started to feel run down like I had a cold starting) but I also somehow managed to throw my back out so this book was my best friend during the daily doctor's appointments that I had to make and sit through.
There is no better book to read when you want to forget the world than this one right here! Sheri Meshal's perspective on what happens after we die is one that I really loved. It wasn't your normal run of the mill you die you go to heaven the end. The way she had the main character's interact with her loved ones really moved me. To be completely honest I am not sure what I believe happens to us after we die and I love Meshal's take on such a controversial subject.
If you dare to be open minded this should be on your TBR list for sure!!!! I give this one a 5 star rating. Pick it up but don't blame me when you can't put it down :)
Now does that mean I didn't like the book? Absolutely not! I loved this book! So much so that I read it in about 3 days and I still had to cook, clean, and work 2 jobs all while wedding planning! This book couldn't have come at a better time. I started it after I had a strange back injury happen when I was napping. I don't know what I did in my sleep but not only did I still feel awful (I took the nap because I started to feel run down like I had a cold starting) but I also somehow managed to throw my back out so this book was my best friend during the daily doctor's appointments that I had to make and sit through.
There is no better book to read when you want to forget the world than this one right here! Sheri Meshal's perspective on what happens after we die is one that I really loved. It wasn't your normal run of the mill you die you go to heaven the end. The way she had the main character's interact with her loved ones really moved me. To be completely honest I am not sure what I believe happens to us after we die and I love Meshal's take on such a controversial subject.
If you dare to be open minded this should be on your TBR list for sure!!!! I give this one a 5 star rating. Pick it up but don't blame me when you can't put it down :)
April 11, 2013
I cannot rave about this book enough.
The best book I have read in a long time.
I have told this book to anyone who will listen (or believes).
I have different beliefs than some. I believe in Spirits and signs and the after life. I believe that we all plan our lives to go the way they do even though we don’t remember planning them. I believe we have had past lives. I believe we are here or there to serve a greater purpose even though we may not be fully aware of that right now.
This book went along the lines of everything I believe in.
My heart felt so at peace reading this book. I felt light. I felt happy. I truly enjoyed this book and promise I will be reading it over and over again.
My favorite part of the entire book though was the explanation on why individuals are developmentally disabled. It was the most amazing reason I have ever heard and whether someone else believes it is true or not – I believe. I would love to share it with everyone, but I would hate to ruin the goodness of the book and spill the secret. You must read it!
I promise, if you have an open mind or you believe like I do, you will truly enjoy this book over and over again. I finished the book and I could still feel the positive energy that book left within me abuzz. No doubt, the best book I have read.
The best book I have read in a long time.
I have told this book to anyone who will listen (or believes).
I have different beliefs than some. I believe in Spirits and signs and the after life. I believe that we all plan our lives to go the way they do even though we don’t remember planning them. I believe we have had past lives. I believe we are here or there to serve a greater purpose even though we may not be fully aware of that right now.
This book went along the lines of everything I believe in.
My heart felt so at peace reading this book. I felt light. I felt happy. I truly enjoyed this book and promise I will be reading it over and over again.
My favorite part of the entire book though was the explanation on why individuals are developmentally disabled. It was the most amazing reason I have ever heard and whether someone else believes it is true or not – I believe. I would love to share it with everyone, but I would hate to ruin the goodness of the book and spill the secret. You must read it!
I promise, if you have an open mind or you believe like I do, you will truly enjoy this book over and over again. I finished the book and I could still feel the positive energy that book left within me abuzz. No doubt, the best book I have read.
April 19, 2013
This book was one of the best that I've read in quite some time and one that I know I will read again...and again! Anyone that has lost a loved one will be able to relate to many of the moments in Swallowtail. That moment when you just KNOW that you're in the presence of complete love - even when you're seemingly alone.
Swallowtail opened my eyes and mind to the possibilities of what would happen if I just wasn't here one moment. What were the last words spoken to my children? Did I kiss my husband good bye? Have I left a legacy that will carry them through the grieving process and will allow them to have fond memories to look back on and share? Have I truly made the most of the moments that matter the most? After I leave this earth, will there be regrets of missed moments or will my loved ones find comfort in the moments of love and laughter that we shared?
There were a few moments when it got a little "too technical" for me but overall the characters, story line, everything flowed. Once I began reading, I was connected and on an emotional roller coaster. Once I finished, I had to pause and truly reflect on what I'd taken in. It was definitely all good!
Swallowtail opened my eyes and mind to the possibilities of what would happen if I just wasn't here one moment. What were the last words spoken to my children? Did I kiss my husband good bye? Have I left a legacy that will carry them through the grieving process and will allow them to have fond memories to look back on and share? Have I truly made the most of the moments that matter the most? After I leave this earth, will there be regrets of missed moments or will my loved ones find comfort in the moments of love and laughter that we shared?
There were a few moments when it got a little "too technical" for me but overall the characters, story line, everything flowed. Once I began reading, I was connected and on an emotional roller coaster. Once I finished, I had to pause and truly reflect on what I'd taken in. It was definitely all good!
March 30, 2013
First to begin with, reincarnation is not something that I believe in. So I treated this book as a fairy tale. It was a bit difficult for me to accept some of the happenings, but the story line does pull you in.
What starts out as a robbery at the bank that Claire Cummings works at,and your thinking that this is the story. Nope!
We find that Claire dies? She has a beautiful family, and you really could feel their pain. Her husband and two daughters, begin trying to live without her. In fact, they don't know what has happened to her. They pray she is alive, but as time passes??
When Claire dies she immediately is reunited with her beloved Grandmother. I could see my heart ripping in two...one wanting to be with my deceased love ones, and also wanting to be home with my family. No one would ever want to have to choose.
Without giving a lot away, this book does make you think. You are going to be very, very surprised at the end. Loved that part. Enjoy!
I received this book through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.
What starts out as a robbery at the bank that Claire Cummings works at,and your thinking that this is the story. Nope!
We find that Claire dies? She has a beautiful family, and you really could feel their pain. Her husband and two daughters, begin trying to live without her. In fact, they don't know what has happened to her. They pray she is alive, but as time passes??
When Claire dies she immediately is reunited with her beloved Grandmother. I could see my heart ripping in two...one wanting to be with my deceased love ones, and also wanting to be home with my family. No one would ever want to have to choose.
Without giving a lot away, this book does make you think. You are going to be very, very surprised at the end. Loved that part. Enjoy!
I received this book through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.
April 22, 2013
Amazing amazing amazing! This is why I read! Books like swallowtail is what reading is about! This is a book that can make you sob out loud as you are reading and make you think deeply about life, death, and the ones you love. While reading this book, I was moved so deeply that I actually put it down and just held my husband. So much if this story spoke to me. the relationships she had with her grandmother, her husband, and her 2 daughters just touched my heart and really hit home. The author didn't just write this book she weaved the words together into something more. It's been a long time since I've read something so profound that it made me change the way I think about life. Swallowtail is now on my absolute favorite read list. This book will make you stop and appreciate the ones you love. I don't just give it 5 stars, I give it 100 stars!!! I'm recommending this book to every single person I know.
January 21, 2016
I wanted to read this book so badly because I knew that it has to be a good one!! And I was right! This book moved me to tears many times because I am a believer, because I had strange signs myself before my grandfather died and after ( and not only with him but with other dear people that I've lost).I was a little child and yet at this age I still receive signs from him once in a while.I loved him to death and this book made me believe even strongly that you can receive signs from your beloved ones even when you are no longer able to see or touch them.
The ending was the strong point of the book and moved me to tears the most.Claire did a huge sacrifice all in the name of love and from desire of being with her family once more even if the cost of it was too much for any human.
I don't believe in reincarnation. But I do believe that each soul is connected to each other and that love give us unimaginable powers.Love is stronger than Death.
December 18, 2012
Swallowtail will take you on a journey through the soul. A novel full of twists that both wrench the heart and fill it with joy. Never a word or an image wasted, Sheri Meshal delivers in her debut novel. Every character, even the smallest, is rich with a full and well-rounded personality. You are led on a trip and feel for each and every character you meet, even the ones you think you can’t imagine being redeemed. Through this story of twists and turns, everything comes full circle and reconnects. You follow Claire on a path of spiritualism and self discovery that really makes you think about the bigger things in life and what happens after. This novel will change your heart. If the world really does work the way Meshal describes in Swallowtail, the future seems a lot warmer.
April 19, 2013
Wow, I was totally impressed with this book! Sheri pens "Swallowtail" that starts out like a mystery but then, hang one because the real plot comes to life. A truly heartwarming story about love and the afterlife. Between the twists, turns, then coming to a full circle in the story line, I had a very hard time putting this book down. I was truly impress with how believable, relate-able, full of life, and well developed her characters were. This is one book that will tug on your heart strings and I highly recommend it to all readers.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
June 26, 2019
Swallowtail – This is the second book I’ve read by Ms. Meshal and I don’t know which of the two is the best since both are substantial reads. This is a well written, intriguing story about one woman’s death and her refusal to let her family go. I found the author’s imagination mixed with popular belief to be a wonderful blend; you will not expect some of what the pages unfold.
The characters are all interesting and the storylines are intriguing and blindsiding in some cases. While the beginning had me impatient for the story to pick up, it didn’t take long before the world and the tempo changed, and the pace never slowed down. I tried to read this at night but I kept picking it up instead of the ARC that was due in two days time.
This story has so many facets that it is difficult not to write a book report. There is plenty of emotions, and the descriptions and the presentations of what is transpiring are just mesmerizing. This is a very talented author and I look forward to reading more of her work. 5*
They Can Never Know - Very powerful story! This is my first read by this author and it held my attention making it hard to put the book down. Instead of rehashing Cleota's life with her abusive, abused husband, the story pickups after his death. Cleota makes a discovery that frees her from her past and immensely changes her life and herself. This is a heart wrenching story that has good and bad, is heartwarming and chilling, yet all help Cleota grow into the person she's desperate to become.
Not too much is written about what happens after the death of an abuser and what happens when the abused is their late 70s. This well written, fast moving story is mesmerizing and the various storylines build and come together climaxing in a heartwarming ending. Needs some minor editing. I found this book on Booksprout. 5*
The characters are all interesting and the storylines are intriguing and blindsiding in some cases. While the beginning had me impatient for the story to pick up, it didn’t take long before the world and the tempo changed, and the pace never slowed down. I tried to read this at night but I kept picking it up instead of the ARC that was due in two days time.
This story has so many facets that it is difficult not to write a book report. There is plenty of emotions, and the descriptions and the presentations of what is transpiring are just mesmerizing. This is a very talented author and I look forward to reading more of her work. 5*
They Can Never Know - Very powerful story! This is my first read by this author and it held my attention making it hard to put the book down. Instead of rehashing Cleota's life with her abusive, abused husband, the story pickups after his death. Cleota makes a discovery that frees her from her past and immensely changes her life and herself. This is a heart wrenching story that has good and bad, is heartwarming and chilling, yet all help Cleota grow into the person she's desperate to become.
Not too much is written about what happens after the death of an abuser and what happens when the abused is their late 70s. This well written, fast moving story is mesmerizing and the various storylines build and come together climaxing in a heartwarming ending. Needs some minor editing. I found this book on Booksprout. 5*
December 6, 2021
it’s sad and sweet
Carly Simon recorded a song, Life is Eternal. It asks the question where does our soul go. That’s a question everyone asks and wants to know the answer to. I ached for Claire’s family and what her daughters were going through along with her husband, Mom and her closest friends. It would be a comfort to know we were loved by so many people. The story is unique and moving as well as funny in parts. I particularly love a story when I can’t guess the ending and you’ll never begin to guess how it ends. I assure you that you’ll love it.
Carly Simon recorded a song, Life is Eternal. It asks the question where does our soul go. That’s a question everyone asks and wants to know the answer to. I ached for Claire’s family and what her daughters were going through along with her husband, Mom and her closest friends. It would be a comfort to know we were loved by so many people. The story is unique and moving as well as funny in parts. I particularly love a story when I can’t guess the ending and you’ll never begin to guess how it ends. I assure you that you’ll love it.
February 9, 2018
I enjoyed most of the book then suddenly it was as if someone else stepped in to write the ending. I was very disappointed in the book. The author suddenly switched the storyline.
April 23, 2018
This book wasn't at all what I was expecting but it was so good! I hated to have to put it down and was really surprised by how much I liked it. The writing was very well done
August 18, 2018
What happens when we die?
This has an interesting view on souls and our afterlife. And what about the life path and choices of the living?
This has an interesting view on souls and our afterlife. And what about the life path and choices of the living?
April 22, 2013
Swallowtail by Sheri Meshal is a wonderful and thought provoking book. While there are parts that I wish had been developed more, the premise of the book makes you examine your own life.
I find myself still thinking of this book weeks after I finished it. Yes, I am running a behind on my review, but I also wanted time to think about it.
This book is about Claire, a wife, mother, and friend. She is under investigation at her bank job. She is suddenly taken away from her family and friends. Swallowtail is all about what you would do to help your loved ones. It is about loss and love.
It somewhat reminds me of a movie or another book, but I can't think of the name.
What would you do to help your family and friends? Would you move heaven and earth to let them know you are watching over them? What is the purpose of your life? What happens after death?
Ms. Meshel answers all of these questions for Claire. By doing so, I find myself examining my life, and wondering what lessons I should be learning. I think more and more about little signs, and my loved ones who have passed.
Before my grandfather passed, I never heard the train that is miles away. He loved trains. When he passed away, that night I sat on my porch, and heard the train. I always felt like it was his way of showing me he was okay, and was watching over me.
People always talk about different signs from the other side but it always seems to conflict with Christian beliefs. Ms. Meshal does a wonderful job of meshing both together and makes you think of your life differently. It also makes you think of others differently.
This book comforts me. It is like being wrapped up in a blanket of love. I strongly urge you to read this book. While the story is a book of fiction, it will make you examine your life. It will move some of you to tears like me. Ultimately, it will leave you with a sense of love.
I find myself still thinking of this book weeks after I finished it. Yes, I am running a behind on my review, but I also wanted time to think about it.
This book is about Claire, a wife, mother, and friend. She is under investigation at her bank job. She is suddenly taken away from her family and friends. Swallowtail is all about what you would do to help your loved ones. It is about loss and love.
It somewhat reminds me of a movie or another book, but I can't think of the name.
What would you do to help your family and friends? Would you move heaven and earth to let them know you are watching over them? What is the purpose of your life? What happens after death?
Ms. Meshel answers all of these questions for Claire. By doing so, I find myself examining my life, and wondering what lessons I should be learning. I think more and more about little signs, and my loved ones who have passed.
Before my grandfather passed, I never heard the train that is miles away. He loved trains. When he passed away, that night I sat on my porch, and heard the train. I always felt like it was his way of showing me he was okay, and was watching over me.
People always talk about different signs from the other side but it always seems to conflict with Christian beliefs. Ms. Meshal does a wonderful job of meshing both together and makes you think of your life differently. It also makes you think of others differently.
This book comforts me. It is like being wrapped up in a blanket of love. I strongly urge you to read this book. While the story is a book of fiction, it will make you examine your life. It will move some of you to tears like me. Ultimately, it will leave you with a sense of love.
October 15, 2012
This novel is about a family experiencing an incredible heartbreak. It's also about love, family bonds and the human spirit.
Claire is an employee at the main office of a Chicago bank. Walking in to work one day, the place is in an uproar. Julia, Claire's office neighbor, has absconded with 3 million dollars of the bank's money. Claire is able to convince her bosses that she knew nothing about it. A few days later, on Halloween, Claire is on a busy road attempting to save a wayward kitten, when she is hit by a car and killed instantly.
Claire had no ID on her, so she is treated as a Jane Doe at the morgue. There is also nothing for the police to tell her husband, Paul, and Anna and Em, her two daughters. That is, on those days, when Paul is not being questioned about her disappearance. Claire is watching everything from the astral plane (for lack of a better term). As her family goes through a reasonable version of Hell, Claire makes a number of attempts to let them know that she is still with them.
No one wants to admit that Claire is not coming back, but, after several months with no news, hope is gone. Christmas comes, and Paul, along with friends of the family, wants it to be as normal as possible (which does not happen). Claire meets Julia, who is now living in Brazil, on the astral plane. It seems that Claire and Julia are much more than just office neighbors. Does Julia get what is coming to her? Does Claire let bygones be bygones? Is Claire's body ever reunited with her family to provide them with closure?
Wow. Need I say more? This may sound like a silly cliche, but do whatever is necessary, and legal, to get a copy of this book. This is a wonderful piece of storytelling, and it is very highly recommended.
Claire is an employee at the main office of a Chicago bank. Walking in to work one day, the place is in an uproar. Julia, Claire's office neighbor, has absconded with 3 million dollars of the bank's money. Claire is able to convince her bosses that she knew nothing about it. A few days later, on Halloween, Claire is on a busy road attempting to save a wayward kitten, when she is hit by a car and killed instantly.
Claire had no ID on her, so she is treated as a Jane Doe at the morgue. There is also nothing for the police to tell her husband, Paul, and Anna and Em, her two daughters. That is, on those days, when Paul is not being questioned about her disappearance. Claire is watching everything from the astral plane (for lack of a better term). As her family goes through a reasonable version of Hell, Claire makes a number of attempts to let them know that she is still with them.
No one wants to admit that Claire is not coming back, but, after several months with no news, hope is gone. Christmas comes, and Paul, along with friends of the family, wants it to be as normal as possible (which does not happen). Claire meets Julia, who is now living in Brazil, on the astral plane. It seems that Claire and Julia are much more than just office neighbors. Does Julia get what is coming to her? Does Claire let bygones be bygones? Is Claire's body ever reunited with her family to provide them with closure?
Wow. Need I say more? This may sound like a silly cliche, but do whatever is necessary, and legal, to get a copy of this book. This is a wonderful piece of storytelling, and it is very highly recommended.
April 21, 2013
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first started reading Swallowtail by Sheri Meshal. The genre is very hard to place, leaving me wondering if this was a mystery, a thriller, a paranormal, or even a religious book. I happily found that this book successfully transcends all labels, making it one of those books that absolutely anyone can enjoy.
Books involving the afterlife are always controversial, in that everyone has their own beliefs on the subject, and some simply are not willing to open their minds to anything else. The writer did an excellent job of portraying it without sticking to a specific religious standard. While there are some hints of Eastern religious beliefs (which I admit I’m partial to), Meshal really paints her own picture of the afterlife in an incredibly imaginative and believable way.
The main character is someone that is easy to relate to, and her struggles throughout the book mirror the struggles that most individuals face every day. There are issues of control, temptation, loss, forgiveness, and many other thought provoking themes that are guaranteed to make you question what you would do in her situation, or maybe even apply some of them to your own life.
In my opinion, Sheri Meshal’s Swallowtail is definitely a book worth reading. For those that are closed-minded, go into it with a completely open mind – you’ll miss an amazing story if you don’t. This book was very touching, leaving me feeling happy, sad, angry, and hopeful at different parts, but overall it was very uplifting. I recommend Swallowtail to all readers, young and old, for a thought provoking and inspiring journey that will stick with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
Books involving the afterlife are always controversial, in that everyone has their own beliefs on the subject, and some simply are not willing to open their minds to anything else. The writer did an excellent job of portraying it without sticking to a specific religious standard. While there are some hints of Eastern religious beliefs (which I admit I’m partial to), Meshal really paints her own picture of the afterlife in an incredibly imaginative and believable way.
The main character is someone that is easy to relate to, and her struggles throughout the book mirror the struggles that most individuals face every day. There are issues of control, temptation, loss, forgiveness, and many other thought provoking themes that are guaranteed to make you question what you would do in her situation, or maybe even apply some of them to your own life.
In my opinion, Sheri Meshal’s Swallowtail is definitely a book worth reading. For those that are closed-minded, go into it with a completely open mind – you’ll miss an amazing story if you don’t. This book was very touching, leaving me feeling happy, sad, angry, and hopeful at different parts, but overall it was very uplifting. I recommend Swallowtail to all readers, young and old, for a thought provoking and inspiring journey that will stick with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
April 12, 2013
Let me begin by saying that this book was very different from what I expected. This could be a good thing or not so good depending on what you like to read. Unfortunately, I was not pleasantly surprised. I was a little disappointed, but understand that I am only one person.
First of all, I think that if the paranormal element had been removed, I really may have enjoyed this book more. I was intrigued by many elements in the story, and there was a certain promise in the writing style. Sheri Meshal has a way of writing that truly does make you care about the characters--especially the kids. Portions of the book were almost charming.
For me, I got so turned off when I realized that much of the book happened on the "other side" following the death of one of the main characters. There were also some reincarnation elements in the story. I tried to set aside all I know, but I guess I couldn't push that far from what I believe and who I am.
I am grateful there were no bedroom scenes nor graphic violence. There was quite a bit of profanity that I could have done without, but that is not a reason to mark a book down. I wish I could have liked this book more, but I can certainly recommend it to lovers of fantasy and paranormal.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
First of all, I think that if the paranormal element had been removed, I really may have enjoyed this book more. I was intrigued by many elements in the story, and there was a certain promise in the writing style. Sheri Meshal has a way of writing that truly does make you care about the characters--especially the kids. Portions of the book were almost charming.
For me, I got so turned off when I realized that much of the book happened on the "other side" following the death of one of the main characters. There were also some reincarnation elements in the story. I tried to set aside all I know, but I guess I couldn't push that far from what I believe and who I am.
I am grateful there were no bedroom scenes nor graphic violence. There was quite a bit of profanity that I could have done without, but that is not a reason to mark a book down. I wish I could have liked this book more, but I can certainly recommend it to lovers of fantasy and paranormal.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
April 30, 2013
I’ll admit, it took me a bit to get into this book. From the description I had read, I thought this book was going to be much more about Julia and Claire’s non-involvement with the whole embezzlement scheme but we really don’t learn much about other than what Julia’s thoughts tell us later. However, while this book turned out much differently than my expectations, I did start to enjoy it about halfway through.
One other negative in my opinion was the focus on energy and spirits. I like to think that I’m open-minded to other ways of thinking but this was just a bit too out there for me. I think if there should have been less focus on the different types of energy as this got me very confused.
I am trying very hard to not provide a spoiler so if you are at all interested in reading this book, I recommend you skip this paragraph. The very last part of the book had me sobbing, but in a good way. Meshal’s description of a baby’s emotions and feelings really stuck with me, especially because I read this just after my baby was born. To think that that’s how a baby feels when you hold and change her was just so powerful. I’m crying now as I type this, remembering how touching this part was.
I can wholeheartedly recommend this book based on that scene alone based on the impact it had on me. This is a book I will never forget because of it.
One other negative in my opinion was the focus on energy and spirits. I like to think that I’m open-minded to other ways of thinking but this was just a bit too out there for me. I think if there should have been less focus on the different types of energy as this got me very confused.
I am trying very hard to not provide a spoiler so if you are at all interested in reading this book, I recommend you skip this paragraph. The very last part of the book had me sobbing, but in a good way. Meshal’s description of a baby’s emotions and feelings really stuck with me, especially because I read this just after my baby was born. To think that that’s how a baby feels when you hold and change her was just so powerful. I’m crying now as I type this, remembering how touching this part was.
I can wholeheartedly recommend this book based on that scene alone based on the impact it had on me. This is a book I will never forget because of it.
May 29, 2013
A very different sort of story that I couldn't seem to put down.
The story starts as the life of an ordinary woman with a job and family, that suddenly changes dramatically as her friend embezzles millions of dollars. Suspected of aiding her friend, Claire is swept into a life after death tale of how ones spirit/soul lingers and effects the lives of loved ones left behind.
I liked the family characters and how they developed as the unease and distress of not knowing what had happened to Claire became the centre of all their lives. The little clues as to her being alive in spirit that she tried to drop, were endearing and almost believable. I loved the paperclips for her baby daughter and the coins for her friend.
But it was so much more than just a ghostly tale. Past lives and fates are all intertwined with friends and destinies. It was complicated in places but still kept me turning the pages as the tale of inseparable incidents sealed Claire's ultimate path.
Not sure about the ending of this story and it is why I took a star off. I so wanted the family to move on and re-discover how they could continue their lives without Claire but the ending the author gave, although it doesn't spoil the story at all, just wasn't the right sort of closure for me.
The story starts as the life of an ordinary woman with a job and family, that suddenly changes dramatically as her friend embezzles millions of dollars. Suspected of aiding her friend, Claire is swept into a life after death tale of how ones spirit/soul lingers and effects the lives of loved ones left behind.
I liked the family characters and how they developed as the unease and distress of not knowing what had happened to Claire became the centre of all their lives. The little clues as to her being alive in spirit that she tried to drop, were endearing and almost believable. I loved the paperclips for her baby daughter and the coins for her friend.
But it was so much more than just a ghostly tale. Past lives and fates are all intertwined with friends and destinies. It was complicated in places but still kept me turning the pages as the tale of inseparable incidents sealed Claire's ultimate path.
Not sure about the ending of this story and it is why I took a star off. I so wanted the family to move on and re-discover how they could continue their lives without Claire but the ending the author gave, although it doesn't spoil the story at all, just wasn't the right sort of closure for me.
April 26, 2013
Swallowtail was an incredible read. Claire a financial executive at the bank is thought to have been in on Julia’s plan to steal millions but she wasn’t, Claire was the kindest, most loving person and would not do a thing to hurt others, in any shape or form.
Tragically Claire is hit by a car and killed early morning of Halloween but as she has no ID and not wearing her own clothes as she dressed up to meet Collin, she is sent to the morgue as a Jane Doe.
Claire cannot let her family go and spends most of her time with them even if they cannot see her trying to ease the pain. I loved Claire’s character she was brave and smart. Seeing her family grieving was hard for her but she learnt to send signs to them, even if some were more sceptic than others.
Swallowtail by Sheri Meshal was a sad book to read, but at the same time it was a book full of hope. Anyone who has lost someone will love this book as it gives you hope that there is something on the other side.
It was very well written, the story flowed smoothly and I was totally hooked.
Tragically Claire is hit by a car and killed early morning of Halloween but as she has no ID and not wearing her own clothes as she dressed up to meet Collin, she is sent to the morgue as a Jane Doe.
Claire cannot let her family go and spends most of her time with them even if they cannot see her trying to ease the pain. I loved Claire’s character she was brave and smart. Seeing her family grieving was hard for her but she learnt to send signs to them, even if some were more sceptic than others.
Swallowtail by Sheri Meshal was a sad book to read, but at the same time it was a book full of hope. Anyone who has lost someone will love this book as it gives you hope that there is something on the other side.
It was very well written, the story flowed smoothly and I was totally hooked.
May 9, 2013
This is a book about life after death - both in the sense of 'What happens to us after we die?' and 'How do we move on when we lose someone we love?' It is a heartwarming story, and it's very possible to love some of the characters, especially 14 year old Anna.
I think readers should be willing to accept the spirituality and reincarnation themes of the story as part of the story's mythos, and not take offence if it does not align with their own spiritual beliefs. However, one part of the story I couldn't help but find repulsive.
It had potential to be a lovely story. But as it is, I simply can't give it more than one star.
I think readers should be willing to accept the spirituality and reincarnation themes of the story as part of the story's mythos, and not take offence if it does not align with their own spiritual beliefs. However, one part of the story I couldn't help but find repulsive.
It had potential to be a lovely story. But as it is, I simply can't give it more than one star.
March 2, 2014
It came to me as a giveaway at a strange time when my grandpa passed away So not only me but my family members pretty much interested in it,I never got tired of reading it and translated it for my family and shared it with enjoyment.It shows the afterlife in a creative way and make us question the things we don't think too much,Also it is a book that is consisted of all good people overall and as reading you sympathy all characters and the writer describes characters' mental status,personal development very well,makes you love them somehow,I impressed by Claire's attachment to her family,Anna's rebellious but vulnerable character,Tony's passion,Collin's friendship and Paul's perfect fatherhood and generally loved every thing about it
April 17, 2013
Sheri Meshal's Swallowtail is a great novel that will make you realize a lot of things in life. It talks more about reality and the issue about the life after death.
I agree to Scott Lewis that Swallowtail is the most moving, beautiful novel you can read at this year. Meshal understands storytelling and has mastered the art of creating believable, living characters. The dialogue flows evenly and the pace is taut. Swallowtail gives new meaning to the term, "page-turner."
Swallowtail is at times a sweetly painful, yet joyous read whose images will linger in the back of your mind, I was able to relate myself here, appreciate things and understand the word sacrifice. Claire's death let us make some realizations of her inner and outer character too.
A must read novel that will make a change in your beliefs in life. I must agree it was a good thing I was able to read it.
I agree to Scott Lewis that Swallowtail is the most moving, beautiful novel you can read at this year. Meshal understands storytelling and has mastered the art of creating believable, living characters. The dialogue flows evenly and the pace is taut. Swallowtail gives new meaning to the term, "page-turner."
Swallowtail is at times a sweetly painful, yet joyous read whose images will linger in the back of your mind, I was able to relate myself here, appreciate things and understand the word sacrifice. Claire's death let us make some realizations of her inner and outer character too.
A must read novel that will make a change in your beliefs in life. I must agree it was a good thing I was able to read it.
May 2, 2013
I loved reading about Claire, her sweet personality, she is a loving wife and mother as well as being a dog owner of Shadow. She is a bank executive who wrongly thinks she has a friend named Julia, but Julia uses their friendship by lending Claire's password and Identification to embezzel millions leaving Claire holding the bag and placing doubt in peoples mind. In a sudden tragic accident devastated Claire dies with no identification and no one knows where she has gone. Claire will move heaven and earth to try and reach her family from the other side, her love for her family keeps her constantly trying to contact them to let them know she is gone and her body is Jane Doe in the morgue. She is going to clear her name from beyond, there is a pact between three spirits what else. .? Best part is that her beloved Nana is there to her comfort her and lend a helping hand.
April 16, 2013
When you start reading Swallowtail, you think that it is a mystery novel about coworkers that are intertwined in a theft within their company, yet they are innocent. Then, you are spun in a total 360. From that point on, I was hooked. The way that Sheri tells the story of Claire and her attempts to help her family and friends (from the other side) is amazing, chilling, exciting - it really brought me into the story. I felt like I was right next to Claire, I understood why she did some of the things she did, as a mom and as a wife and friend.
The imagery and thought put into this novel are wonderful. It was a fast read for me. Although I didn't want it to end, I was compelled to read "just one more page".
The imagery and thought put into this novel are wonderful. It was a fast read for me. Although I didn't want it to end, I was compelled to read "just one more page".
March 19, 2013
I actually really liked this book, although I found it so sad. The story is about a woman who dies and crosses over. She is still very much attached to earth life and especially her family, who don't know what happened to their wife/mother as one day she simply "vanished". Everything that happens to her in the "afterlife", gives you a possible vision of what you might expect. I really enjoyed the concept of how people's lives are inter-connected over several lifetimes and the karma and lessons that come with it. Even though it is still fiction, and we don't know what is right or wrong, I found it a very nice rendering of a very complex matter.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2013
This storyline had so much potential. Several of the characters had great sense if humor including the lead. The characters were well developed and the writing was good but I got bored about 1/2 of the way through. I found myself skimming. There were elements of "the shack" I felt sprinkled in this book which may have caused some of my skimming as I did not enjoy "The Shack". The ending although not what I would have chosen had a good twist. If you enjoyed "The Shack" and don't mind lots of sadness you'll like this book...not so much for me.
April 17, 2013
The book cover is an awesome magnet to my senses and curiosity! I just wanted to read it. What really retained my attention was the mystery of it all and for me it began after Claire’s death. How will the survivors carry on? It was a little twisty for me until I felt myself “possibly” riding along the journey after death. Can it be so? Some times it was a little bit like an afternoon TV soap but most of the times, Sheri found a way of keeping me interested. The ending was much different than what I had expected. I do recommend it for readers who enjoy mysterious inspirationals.
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