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Crimes of Redemption
When a robbery goes horribly wrong in a small town on the Oklahoma plains, the end result is ultimately not one but two men dead. Gayla Early claims to know who did the first killing but now she's wanted for the second. Her supposed victim? Only the most powerful man in town, the same man she claims held her hostage for two years. Albert Raeder may be dead, but he wields power from the grave — thanks to the good-old-boys he left behind. His buddies are going to make sure someone pays for his untimely death. And Gayla looks good for taking the fall. Sheriff Tommy Maynard's job has always been more babysitter than crime-solver. He prefers it that way. Then the murder of the century happens on his watch, and the Viet Nam vet-turned-sheriff realizes he and a grumpy recluse are all that is keeping a fragile stranger from being railroaded right into prison.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 16, 2012
15 people are currently reading
1079 people want to read
About the author
Linda McDonald
5 books15 followersLinda McDonald's first novel, CRIMES OF REDEMPTION, was awarded the 2013 Oklahoma Book of the Year in Fiction by the Center for the Book. She has also written COLD, IN THE LION'S MOUTH, HERE COMES THE NIGHT, DEATH IN COMANCHE COUNTY, and IN A WORLD OF HURT, all available as e-books on Amazon. IN A WORLD OF HURT is also available in paperback.
Linda grew up on the western plains of Oklahoma and holds Master's degrees in Theater from Kansas University and in Creative Writing from the University of Central Oklahoma, where she also taught for many years. Her plays have been produced in Oklahoma City, Dallas, Northampton, MA, and New York City. She still acts and directs with regional theaters.
She has also written over a dozen screenplays which have been honored in writing competitions by Fade In magazine, Oklahoma Film Institute, National Broadcasters Association, Austin Film Festival, Best of the West, and Lone Star.
Linda grew up on the western plains of Oklahoma and holds Master's degrees in Theater from Kansas University and in Creative Writing from the University of Central Oklahoma, where she also taught for many years. Her plays have been produced in Oklahoma City, Dallas, Northampton, MA, and New York City. She still acts and directs with regional theaters.
She has also written over a dozen screenplays which have been honored in writing competitions by Fade In magazine, Oklahoma Film Institute, National Broadcasters Association, Austin Film Festival, Best of the West, and Lone Star.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
December 4, 2015
Review to come. AMAZING book.
June 10, 2023
This is a complicated story.
It has a taste of magical realism to it, but with a more serious tone.
The tale is heartbreaking and soul-soaring.
The characters will stay with you, even haunt you, long after the last page.
This is definitely a book you have to pay attention to, there are threads throughout that all become important in the end.
If you are looking for a change from the typical storylines this book is definitely for you.
It has a taste of magical realism to it, but with a more serious tone.
The tale is heartbreaking and soul-soaring.
The characters will stay with you, even haunt you, long after the last page.
This is definitely a book you have to pay attention to, there are threads throughout that all become important in the end.
If you are looking for a change from the typical storylines this book is definitely for you.
January 1, 2016
The writing is dark chocolate laced with voluptuous poison.
The tale is heartbreaking and soul-soaring.
This is Toni McGee Causey as you've never read her, and it's brilliant.
The tale is heartbreaking and soul-soaring.
This is Toni McGee Causey as you've never read her, and it's brilliant.
March 17, 2016
I received an advanced copy of this novel. I have waited a long time for a new book by Toni McGee Causey. I loved her Bobbie Faye books for their sass, humor and heart. This is nothing like anything else she’s ever written.
Avery and the other characters in The Saints of The Lost and Found will stay with you, even haunt you, long after the last page. The characters are so rich, so honest, so believable that you might swear you have met them in person. It took me about a week after I finished the book to even begin thinking about what to say in a review. In that time, Avery has never been far from my thoughts. I realized that one of the things I liked most about this very dark novel was the psychological aspect.
I’ve often been drawn to more serious subjects in books, movies and television shows. If you knew I’d done a book report on Helter Skelter in the 4th grade that probably wouldn't surprise you. While reading this, I was reminded of a favorite television show, Criminal Minds. Not because of the plot, but because the characters, no matter what horrific cases they are faced with, remain a close knit group. They respect and comfort the victims and their families. They do their best to take care of each other as well. The protectiveness, the camaraderie, the cooperation. Of course there are disagreements and misunderstandings. Every family has them. Ultimately, that’s what they are. A family. I had that same emotional connection to Avery, Latham, Brody, Hank and Jack. I cared about them from page 1.
There was another favorite story I was reminded of, one that surprised me. Joining Avery on her journey is a lot like following Alice in Wonderland down the rabbit hole. It’s a wild ride with unforgettable characters, scenes and moments set in a true-to-life small Southern town. Both characters are strong, resilient, independent and courageous young women who discover more and more about their personal identities along the way.
Although fans of her Bobbie Faye books might not expect this kind of story from Toni, I hope they give it a chance. It’s not often that I find such a richly developed story in a setting I swear I’ve seen and people I swear I’ve met. It’s a book that will stay with me for a very long time.
Avery and the other characters in The Saints of The Lost and Found will stay with you, even haunt you, long after the last page. The characters are so rich, so honest, so believable that you might swear you have met them in person. It took me about a week after I finished the book to even begin thinking about what to say in a review. In that time, Avery has never been far from my thoughts. I realized that one of the things I liked most about this very dark novel was the psychological aspect.
I’ve often been drawn to more serious subjects in books, movies and television shows. If you knew I’d done a book report on Helter Skelter in the 4th grade that probably wouldn't surprise you. While reading this, I was reminded of a favorite television show, Criminal Minds. Not because of the plot, but because the characters, no matter what horrific cases they are faced with, remain a close knit group. They respect and comfort the victims and their families. They do their best to take care of each other as well. The protectiveness, the camaraderie, the cooperation. Of course there are disagreements and misunderstandings. Every family has them. Ultimately, that’s what they are. A family. I had that same emotional connection to Avery, Latham, Brody, Hank and Jack. I cared about them from page 1.
There was another favorite story I was reminded of, one that surprised me. Joining Avery on her journey is a lot like following Alice in Wonderland down the rabbit hole. It’s a wild ride with unforgettable characters, scenes and moments set in a true-to-life small Southern town. Both characters are strong, resilient, independent and courageous young women who discover more and more about their personal identities along the way.
Although fans of her Bobbie Faye books might not expect this kind of story from Toni, I hope they give it a chance. It’s not often that I find such a richly developed story in a setting I swear I’ve seen and people I swear I’ve met. It’s a book that will stay with me for a very long time.
December 11, 2015
Toni McGee Causey is well-known for her Bobby Faye books. Light-hearted screwball comedy. Her new book is drastically different in tone and style. Though there are moments of black humor, this novel takes her work in an entirely different direction. Saints is a dark thriller with paranormal overtones. In short, if you are looking for more Bobby Faye you will not find her here. What you will find is a masterfully crafted novel with divergent timelines that all manage to coalesce in the end. Avery Broussard finds lost things. In this case that is the remnants of her childhood and a very current serial killer. I loved this book from start to finish. I wanted Avery to succeed in putting her life back on track and end the destructive reign of the Little Princess Killer. My heart broke along with hers as she battled the evil strangling her and her family. This is definitely a book you have to pay attention to, there are threads throughout that all become important in the end. If you are looking for a change from the typical storylines this book is definitely for you.
January 6, 2016
Avery Broussard finds lost things. Some she has searched for, others show up like a bullet in her side when she gets too close to other people. A child of grifters who didn’t ask permission to use her “gift”, she’s now an adult, running from failure towards danger and not able to avoid it because the danger concerns her brother Latham. She needs to go home to Louisiana, or he will die. And so might she.
The Saints of the Lost and Found is one of the best books I’ve read in a while. T M Causey has created three dimensional characters with heart, soul, and vulnerability and placed them in a situation that is not resolved until the very last page. Avery and her brother share a history that comes to light bit by bit, and Avery’s own deeply hidden lost things emerge from the shadows as she searches for a way to save her brother, avoid a past love and prevent the unexpected from claiming her as a final victim. The author uses the small town of St Michaels, Avery’s sometime home, to add in superstition, family secrets, and the worth of true friends when everything else goes sour. Mystery, suspense, and even a touch of gothic horror all combine to make this a page-turning read, as well as giving the reader a protagonist to fear for, agonize with, and believe in. My first thought after reading the last sentence? I could read this book again. It’s that good.
The Saints of the Lost and Found is one of the best books I’ve read in a while. T M Causey has created three dimensional characters with heart, soul, and vulnerability and placed them in a situation that is not resolved until the very last page. Avery and her brother share a history that comes to light bit by bit, and Avery’s own deeply hidden lost things emerge from the shadows as she searches for a way to save her brother, avoid a past love and prevent the unexpected from claiming her as a final victim. The author uses the small town of St Michaels, Avery’s sometime home, to add in superstition, family secrets, and the worth of true friends when everything else goes sour. Mystery, suspense, and even a touch of gothic horror all combine to make this a page-turning read, as well as giving the reader a protagonist to fear for, agonize with, and believe in. My first thought after reading the last sentence? I could read this book again. It’s that good.
January 8, 2016
This novel got a great review from Romance Times so I was apprehensive - I'm not keen on romance novels. Turns out that SAINTS isn’t a romance – though it does have a bittersweet love story. It’s so much more. The suspense is juicy and never lets up. The characters are strong and proactive yet vulnerable enough to be relatable. The story plots are unexpected and well played. I don't want to spoil things for future readers so I won't comment on plot but Causey does a few things exceptionally well and those need to be mentioned - and studied by any writer who wants to improve their craft.
First, her use of backstory to advance plot is masterful. In many novels, backstory weighs the story down by explaining or justifying the character's actions yet doesn't impact the forward thrust of the story. In SAINTS, Causey uses backstory to determine the protagonist's next course of action. The backstory IS part of the present. And yes, we're dealing with paranormal elements but they have real world consequences and meaning. They add to the story rather than merely fatten it.
Second, Causey does an excellent job of creating the rich texture of the Louisiana setting as an intricate part of the story. You feel a part of that environment without the writing calling attention to itself. Her descriptions illuminate characters' relationships and lifestyles, imbuing the unique feel of the Cajun world into the reader’s psyche.
I enjoyed this novel from beginning to end. I was surprised this novel veered from Causey's previous light-hearted style but if you want a paranormal thriller, you won't be disappointed.
First, her use of backstory to advance plot is masterful. In many novels, backstory weighs the story down by explaining or justifying the character's actions yet doesn't impact the forward thrust of the story. In SAINTS, Causey uses backstory to determine the protagonist's next course of action. The backstory IS part of the present. And yes, we're dealing with paranormal elements but they have real world consequences and meaning. They add to the story rather than merely fatten it.
Second, Causey does an excellent job of creating the rich texture of the Louisiana setting as an intricate part of the story. You feel a part of that environment without the writing calling attention to itself. Her descriptions illuminate characters' relationships and lifestyles, imbuing the unique feel of the Cajun world into the reader’s psyche.
I enjoyed this novel from beginning to end. I was surprised this novel veered from Causey's previous light-hearted style but if you want a paranormal thriller, you won't be disappointed.
January 11, 2016
One of the things I love about Toni McGee Causey’s writing is that she gets you into the mind of the protagonist so deeply that you get to live the story through their eyes. Not only does that make for compelling and suspenseful storytelling, but it also reveals the fears and insecurities that make her characters so very human. Whether I am experiencing the outrageous hijinks of Bobbie Faye or the paranormal ‘gifts’ of Avery Broussard, what resonates with me are the very real stories of family, love, loss and hope. At the core of this story are a brother and sister plagued by gifts they didn’t ask for and damaged by a history of family deceit and deception. As dark and difficult as their journey is, their strength in protecting each other and their community is what keeps us rooting for them.
The first time through Avery’s story was an ‘I can’t put this book down’ race to the end. The plot was twisty and unexpected and I couldn’t wait to see how it would resolve. The next time I read it I’ll be able to slow down and savor the vivid descriptions and rich characterizations. It’s Avery’s curse to see the loss, sadness and longing that all of the characters carry with them wherever they go. Seeing those images through her eyes brings depth to the characters and makes this story complex and satisfying. Go get yourself a copy of The Saints of the Lost and Found as soon as you can. You won’t be disappointed. It’s fantastic!
The first time through Avery’s story was an ‘I can’t put this book down’ race to the end. The plot was twisty and unexpected and I couldn’t wait to see how it would resolve. The next time I read it I’ll be able to slow down and savor the vivid descriptions and rich characterizations. It’s Avery’s curse to see the loss, sadness and longing that all of the characters carry with them wherever they go. Seeing those images through her eyes brings depth to the characters and makes this story complex and satisfying. Go get yourself a copy of The Saints of the Lost and Found as soon as you can. You won’t be disappointed. It’s fantastic!
January 26, 2016
First let me say I received a advance readers copy. I've taken my time to read and chew over plot twists to savor each point etc like a big box of truffles.
ERMEHGERD! Never really been a big fan of "Southern Gothic" novels so many seem to be the same. HOWEVER this is entirely different and for me has won me over. Ms Causey, is such a phenomenal story teller the characters I swear are so well written and flexed out you would almost swear she's just hijacked someone's life story and turned it into a novel.
Avery Broussard, her older brother Lathem, both have different "gifts" or curses depending on how you look at it. Along with highly manipulative con artist parents who do their best to exploit Avery's abilities.
Avery has to be the most compelling character I've read in a long while. Fractured, unsure, trying to heal and save her brother and others at the same time saving herself. Heart wrenching and triumphant at the same time. I feel this book is going to be a best seller!!!
ERMEHGERD! Never really been a big fan of "Southern Gothic" novels so many seem to be the same. HOWEVER this is entirely different and for me has won me over. Ms Causey, is such a phenomenal story teller the characters I swear are so well written and flexed out you would almost swear she's just hijacked someone's life story and turned it into a novel.
Avery Broussard, her older brother Lathem, both have different "gifts" or curses depending on how you look at it. Along with highly manipulative con artist parents who do their best to exploit Avery's abilities.
Avery has to be the most compelling character I've read in a long while. Fractured, unsure, trying to heal and save her brother and others at the same time saving herself. Heart wrenching and triumphant at the same time. I feel this book is going to be a best seller!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2016
I just got done reading this wonderful book during one sitting becuase it is the type of book you do not want to leave once you start it. I had a slow start with the first of the book but by page ten I was hooked and goodnesss I have been on a journey that when from jumping at any noise in the house to crying my eyes out . Yes the book does drag you in to the point that you feel everything the characters are feeling. I know that i'm not giving this epic perforamance that T.M. Causey has created justice in my review but I can not wait to see what else she has in store for the future. I would give this a 5 star rating with the warning to not read this during a thunderstorm or stormy weather it makes it worst trust me on this one.
December 28, 2015
Absolutely loved this story. Avery is a smart tough woman who's been through hell and survived. It's a great story about love, loss, family and friendship. Highly recommended!!
January 20, 2016
Such great storytelling!
January 27, 2016
I first came across Toni McGee Causey with her Bobbie Faye Series (action/very hilarious/chaos) I LOVED them....this is nowhere near that type of book and I absolutely loved it.
I was blown away by this book! This book made me smile, made me think, and made me cry more than once.
Dark, twisty, suspense. This is a southern gothic suspense book and only I believe the second one I've read. I loved it so much. The main character Avery Marie Broussard sees lost things and all she wants to do is save her brother, but the case she was helping the FBI with that she feels she failed and ran from catches back up with her. It was so easy for me to love Avery. She is so strong and she never knows just how much strength she has. Her brother Latham....I can't say how much I love this character. He is always there for Avery even when she was across the country he was trying to protect and help her. If there is a sequel or a spin off after this book I hope it's about Latham.
Through out the book Causey keeps you addicted and on your toes...or your eyeballs since your reading...I couldn't put this book down and if I didn't have to do little things like eat, sleep, and work I would have read the book straight through and begged for more. Actually I will still beg for more, please and thank you! This book had so much going on with it ever feeling like it was too much. There is so much depth and a few twists and revelations that make you gasp and cry and say "oooooh Avery, I get it! God bless you, you amazing woman!" By the end of the book I wanted to know so much more about Avery and her world.
I've always been a fan of Causey's but after this I'm even more so. This shows a different side and style of writing and I love it so much. You, Miss Causey, take my breath away.
I was given an ARC of this book with a promise of my honest review.
Format: ARC paperback
5 stars!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trigger warning: There is violence in this book including child abuse, torture, and rape.
I was blown away by this book! This book made me smile, made me think, and made me cry more than once.
Dark, twisty, suspense. This is a southern gothic suspense book and only I believe the second one I've read. I loved it so much. The main character Avery Marie Broussard sees lost things and all she wants to do is save her brother, but the case she was helping the FBI with that she feels she failed and ran from catches back up with her. It was so easy for me to love Avery. She is so strong and she never knows just how much strength she has. Her brother Latham....I can't say how much I love this character. He is always there for Avery even when she was across the country he was trying to protect and help her. If there is a sequel or a spin off after this book I hope it's about Latham.
Through out the book Causey keeps you addicted and on your toes...or your eyeballs since your reading...I couldn't put this book down and if I didn't have to do little things like eat, sleep, and work I would have read the book straight through and begged for more. Actually I will still beg for more, please and thank you! This book had so much going on with it ever feeling like it was too much. There is so much depth and a few twists and revelations that make you gasp and cry and say "oooooh Avery, I get it! God bless you, you amazing woman!" By the end of the book I wanted to know so much more about Avery and her world.
I've always been a fan of Causey's but after this I'm even more so. This shows a different side and style of writing and I love it so much. You, Miss Causey, take my breath away.
I was given an ARC of this book with a promise of my honest review.
Format: ARC paperback
5 stars!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trigger warning: There is violence in this book including child abuse, torture, and rape.
February 21, 2013
The early introduction to this novel reads like a Cormac McCarthy novel. The violence and the depth that develops in the characters is almost No Country for Old Men. The main characters are revealed as scarred and nearly broken form the burdens they carry. The Sheriff of the small town in Oklahoma is a pot smoking Vietnam POW who has attempted his escape by toking up. Gayla is the crack whore who is undergoing a trial for murder. Willie is the lonely old recluse of the plains of the Oklahoma panhandle that gets caught up in the lives of others. The trial has the elements seen in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird because of all the small town hatred that comes out in the proceedings. In a typical romantic novel, by definition the good guys seem to triumph. The is a nice escape novel in many ways. This is a Goodreads author. I was impressed with the character development, but since the author is also involved theater I better understand her ability in creating well rounded and fully developed characters. Perhaps others in theater should consider novel writing.
March 16, 2016
A high B- for me. I loved the Southern Gothic atmosphere and really appreciated the different spin the author put on the old psychic heroine trope. Also I'm a total sucker for Gothics and family secret plots so this was catnip for me. What didn't work as well? The fact that the romantic internal conflict stems entirely from the hero and heroine not talking to each other. And because they don't talk to each other every secondary character gets sucked into their drama. I actually felt sorry for the hero's Bitter Ex Wife even though she's a vile human being. Why? Because she's a victim of the hero and heroine not talking to each other!
When the author swings back to focusing on the external conflict (namely the serial killer running amok) and the family secrets drama? Oh man, I was ALL in. So while I had quibbles, if you love Gothics this is one you should check out.
When the author swings back to focusing on the external conflict (namely the serial killer running amok) and the family secrets drama? Oh man, I was ALL in. So while I had quibbles, if you love Gothics this is one you should check out.
March 5, 2016
I have just finished this book and all I can say is WOW what a great read ,I was a fan of her Bobby Fay series and didn't know what to expect but I was hooked by the 2 nd chapter. I can n t wait to read more by her ,she makes you emotionally invested in her characters .Thank you Toni for a great book I recommend that this be on everyone's must read list. this year.
February 16, 2016
This was the fist book I've read from T.M. Causey, I won it to read before you could buy it. I am so happy I did as I have found a new author to add to my list.
The story kept me hanging on to every word, waiting to see what happened next. The way she wrote the story made you feel as if you were there and experiencing it yourself. Not only is it suspenseful it is also a love story.
The story kept me hanging on to every word, waiting to see what happened next. The way she wrote the story made you feel as if you were there and experiencing it yourself. Not only is it suspenseful it is also a love story.
August 7, 2016
A dark and deeply riveting book. The romance is so filled with angst but you can feel the pull. And poor Avery! This book kept me engaged for 3 hours straight.
May 15, 2016
Dark Cajun tale with nonstop twists.
Lost toys, shoes, jewelry, jobs, soulmates, children. If it is lost, Avery Broussard has the ability to see it. Her visions have been a part of her as long as she can remember. They bring happiness, and heartache. And have led her to run away from those she loves. When she is urged to return home for her brother, Latham’s, sake, she has to make a tough decision. Does she go back to Saint Michaels to protect her brother, which will put her own self in imminent danger? Or does she continue to run, trying to find herself?
Toni McGee Causey’s writing is phenomenal. Her characters are true to life, as is the setting of the story. The complex depth of each character alludes to the expertise of the author. She uses superb word power to pull the reader in.
Avery captured my heart with her own. I got lost in her anxiety, fears, loss, and her mind. A mind which took me from the present to the past. I toggled between her conscious and her subconscious. Through each experience, Avery fought for justice and truth. The intricate story line kept me on the edge of my seat, biting my nails throughout the entire book. There was never a dull moment. The twists just didn’t stop. Each one uniquely woven into Avery, Jack, and Latham’s world.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a fast paced, suspenseful, menacing, intense emotional read. You will certainly be satisfied!
Lost toys, shoes, jewelry, jobs, soulmates, children. If it is lost, Avery Broussard has the ability to see it. Her visions have been a part of her as long as she can remember. They bring happiness, and heartache. And have led her to run away from those she loves. When she is urged to return home for her brother, Latham’s, sake, she has to make a tough decision. Does she go back to Saint Michaels to protect her brother, which will put her own self in imminent danger? Or does she continue to run, trying to find herself?
Toni McGee Causey’s writing is phenomenal. Her characters are true to life, as is the setting of the story. The complex depth of each character alludes to the expertise of the author. She uses superb word power to pull the reader in.
Avery captured my heart with her own. I got lost in her anxiety, fears, loss, and her mind. A mind which took me from the present to the past. I toggled between her conscious and her subconscious. Through each experience, Avery fought for justice and truth. The intricate story line kept me on the edge of my seat, biting my nails throughout the entire book. There was never a dull moment. The twists just didn’t stop. Each one uniquely woven into Avery, Jack, and Latham’s world.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a fast paced, suspenseful, menacing, intense emotional read. You will certainly be satisfied!
November 19, 2018
Avery Broussard finds lost things. Hers is a terrible and beautiful gift, when it works right. Returning to the bayous of her youth, after running away years before, she's desperate to save her brother. A missing child, people and conflicts from her past, a lost love all lead to a crashing crescendo of a climax. This is a book that everyone should read. It is beautiful and heartbreaking. It has nail-biting tension and sly smiles. It has haunted me since reading it. It is the book Toni was meant to write. And I loved every word of it.I own this book in hardback, in digital, and if it ever comes out in audio, I'll own that too. This is a book that belongs on the keeper shelf. It is a book to be read from beginning to end, pages turning like autumn leaves in a hard wind, yet it is also a book to be sipped and savored, each word and sentence a delight to the mind. I couldn't review it when I first finished. I wanted to let the words settle in my soul first. Now, I want to give it 10 stars. A 100. All the stars in the sky. It's that good.
April 5, 2016
_Saints of the Lost and Found_ by T. M. Causey
An amazing book, with many twisty plot lines woven together and finished off perfectly.
I was so caught up in Causey's _Saints of the Lost and Found_ that I stayed awake far too late and in the morning had to read more before I could go to weaving class at the Art Museum. Perhaps it was the influence of that weaving class that made the many surprises seem like threads twisting, turning, connecting, separating, in the hands of a skilled weaver of tales. What could so easily have become a tangled mess became instead a tapestry of snow, roses, red shoes, love, loss, trust, wolves and family, and cups of tea.
I was warned this tale would be dark, and it was in places, but with a light of goodness and care for others shining through. Sleep called urgently, and I finally put the book down, telling myself, “They’ll be all right, all will be well,” a promise I can only make to myself if I really trust the author. I did and I do; this is an excellent book, from beginning to end, exploring the gifts that might not feel like gifts and the ones that really are.
An amazing book, with many twisty plot lines woven together and finished off perfectly.
I was so caught up in Causey's _Saints of the Lost and Found_ that I stayed awake far too late and in the morning had to read more before I could go to weaving class at the Art Museum. Perhaps it was the influence of that weaving class that made the many surprises seem like threads twisting, turning, connecting, separating, in the hands of a skilled weaver of tales. What could so easily have become a tangled mess became instead a tapestry of snow, roses, red shoes, love, loss, trust, wolves and family, and cups of tea.
I was warned this tale would be dark, and it was in places, but with a light of goodness and care for others shining through. Sleep called urgently, and I finally put the book down, telling myself, “They’ll be all right, all will be well,” a promise I can only make to myself if I really trust the author. I did and I do; this is an excellent book, from beginning to end, exploring the gifts that might not feel like gifts and the ones that really are.
October 26, 2016
First I want to thank random number generator for picking out this book for me. I had 50 books on my kindle to read and this was number 36 It must have been fate.
Ok now for the review. If you know me I do not write long reviews. I am usually 5 or less words.
I am going to need a few more than that for this review.
Avery finds lost things. It could be a ring or it could be a person. It does not always work perfectly.
This story was very different if very dark. I loved the concept and as you read it you know there is something else going on but you just arent quite sure what is missing.
I am not going to talk about the story any more than that because this book needs to be enjoyed with no spoilers.
This was the first book I have read by the author and I hope she writes more of this style. I will read her other series but this book may be very hard to beat.
Do yourself a favor and go read this book. Its not a romance its more mystery/thriller but no matter what you like this should be on your list as a must read!
Ok now for the review. If you know me I do not write long reviews. I am usually 5 or less words.
I am going to need a few more than that for this review.
Avery finds lost things. It could be a ring or it could be a person. It does not always work perfectly.
This story was very different if very dark. I loved the concept and as you read it you know there is something else going on but you just arent quite sure what is missing.
I am not going to talk about the story any more than that because this book needs to be enjoyed with no spoilers.
This was the first book I have read by the author and I hope she writes more of this style. I will read her other series but this book may be very hard to beat.
Do yourself a favor and go read this book. Its not a romance its more mystery/thriller but no matter what you like this should be on your list as a must read!
February 12, 2013
This book was a Goodreads win and it's my understanding it was the author's first book. Thank you for a such a great story.
This book held my interest from the first page to the last. I had a mental picture of the characters and was especially fond of Sheriff Maynard and Willie. Willie lived alone with her dog and stayed pretty much away from others and Sheriff Maynard took the job as a small time cop. He was in the service before we met him in the story and he was captured and tortured unmercifully during that duty. This small-town job was what he felt he needed. Not much happening so he could freely smoke his pot and get on with his day. Then a murder. These two interesting characters have a total change of personality. Their compassion and understanding was wonderful. I loved the story!
This book held my interest from the first page to the last. I had a mental picture of the characters and was especially fond of Sheriff Maynard and Willie. Willie lived alone with her dog and stayed pretty much away from others and Sheriff Maynard took the job as a small time cop. He was in the service before we met him in the story and he was captured and tortured unmercifully during that duty. This small-town job was what he felt he needed. Not much happening so he could freely smoke his pot and get on with his day. Then a murder. These two interesting characters have a total change of personality. Their compassion and understanding was wonderful. I loved the story!
March 22, 2016
A book like none other I've ever read - but in a good way. I just finished this book and it's already on my read-again list. You'll read it once for the rich characters and the surprising--but sensible--twists. Oh, and there's that occasional turn of phrase so beautiful it makes you stop and think and appreciate. The second read will be for living with Avery, who sees everything everyone she comes in contact with has lost, but doesn't realize she's lost herself--to see how she puts things together and parses them apart again. The third read, sometime when you're just restless for a good book, will come in good time. This story is part paranormal, part fairy tale, part romantic suspense, but all absorbing. It's jarring when you look up and realize you're not really in the woods, or the snow, with Avery and that the real world is somehow less than it was. Truly, a tour de force.
November 1, 2016
So compelling within two to three pages you wrestle with wanting to read it in one sitting or savor it more slowly. The characters are fascinating and come to life so clearly in your mind. You care about them even if their circumstances are extraordinary. And, they are people you will want to visit again.
Toni understands the heart and soul of the Louisiana people and pours it onto the page. And, it makes you want people like that in your life... those friends that are there for you no matter what...
A great author makes you really care about the characters and what happens to them. You find your self wanting to jump off the couch and into the pages to backup our dark heroine.
Read this in front of a fire with a glass of bourbon, a Sazerac would be even more appropriate!
Toni understands the heart and soul of the Louisiana people and pours it onto the page. And, it makes you want people like that in your life... those friends that are there for you no matter what...
A great author makes you really care about the characters and what happens to them. You find your self wanting to jump off the couch and into the pages to backup our dark heroine.
Read this in front of a fire with a glass of bourbon, a Sazerac would be even more appropriate!
February 12, 2013
Gayla Early's life is in the toilet. And things get worse when her drug dealer forces her to help him break into the weekend cabin of a rich Oklahoma businessman. Their victim unexpectedly comes home and suddenly the tables are turned and Gayla's life will never be the same. This story of how the actions of a depraved man bring an unlikely trio together to support Gayla in her fight for freedom.
March 23, 2013
This book by Linda Mcdonald is one that will keep you up reading. I enjoyed reading this story and was always wondering what would happen to a person who was as abused as the main character of the book. She made a comeback but you have to read the whole think to appreciate what Mcdonald has done with the theme.
J. Robert Ewbank author "John Wesley, Natural Man, and the Isms" and "Wesley's Wars"
J. Robert Ewbank author "John Wesley, Natural Man, and the Isms" and "Wesley's Wars"
May 3, 2016
Wow. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started reading this (I just knew it was darker than her other comedic works), but once I cracked open that book (and yes, I read an actual paper book), I had a hard time putting it down. It grabbed me right away and took me on a ride full of twists and turns. Excellent suspense and highly recommended for those who like to read them.
March 13, 2016
Every word she uses is necessary! Every scene she sets forth exciting.
There are no mental lapses that have you wanting to skip chapters, even pages of a book. She draws you in and keeps you spellbound. Loved all of her novels.
There are no mental lapses that have you wanting to skip chapters, even pages of a book. She draws you in and keeps you spellbound. Loved all of her novels.
May 23, 2013
Very interesting story with great cast of characters. Well written. There is minimal romance, which is my preference. Highly recommend.
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