Claws: The Legend Behind Texas's Most Bizarre Unsolved Murders

by Timothy Gene Sojka

“A master of intrigue, suspense, emotion, and wit. Sojka evokes laughter, despair, fear, suspense, and thrills.” –Sublime Book Review

Teeny Voix lies burritoed in her blanket, girded by Lego landmines, protected by her plushy opossum when the bedroom door creaks, and her lecherous stepfather enters . . . again, while her momma ignores. Weeks earlier, the mute girl penned a mysterious letter, unwittingly hailing a goliath who mauls then kills Teeny's stepfather.

The bizarre death forces Teeny to use wit, fortitude, and an eclectic collection of combatants to brave life and death battles with the wicked White Van People, an organized and well-financed child trafficking operation.

Set in the summer of 1976, in the dark Piney Woods along Interstate 10, Claws embraces the soaring pines, dark chocolate waters, oppressive heat, and eccentrics of southeast Texas.

Pedro "Paunch" Perez, a portly, suspended detective, pursues Teeny, selecting himself as the mute girl's protector, and tracks her via the geographically impossible deaths that follow in her wake, each mystery laying the groundwork for a case that will remain unsolved and unexplained for over fifty years.

Using classic folklore to create new legend, Sojka hones his talent for plot twists while daring readers to solve the mysteries behind Claws.

349 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 30, 2024

About the author

While Texas's greatest storytellers, Cormac McCarthy and Larry McMurtry focused on the western plains, Sojka focuses on southeast Texas's Big Thicket, Piney Woods, Neches River and the area's eccentrics. Few authors' voices more closely mimic the people and the rich environment they describe.

Sojka's plot twist often dare readers to connect the dots, but his devotion to character arcs and off-beat dialogue prompted critics to award his last novel 39: Your Last Birthday the Maxy Award for Literature and Humor and a Readers' Favorite Silver Medal for Southern Fiction.

Sojka still lives in southeast Texas with his wife. He writes, runs, paddleboards, and aspires to smoke the perfect brisket.

Reviews

[Heather Dugger · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Claws , a new urban legend of sorts is born, thanks to Teeny Voix in 1976. She sets up protection from her step father than afterward discovers she has been promised to the white van people. Along with her stuffed opossum. She unknowingly seems a monster all of her own to protect her from bad people. A detective who has been suspended has been following close behind to keep her safe. The ending is wild. I was on the edge of my seat.

Now, this is not a feel-good book. It brings up human trafficking and violence, along other things. It has sites listed to help end it.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Soscha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one was hard to conjure an Al pic for. It's a scary read, a great read that covers child sex trafficking & what kind of sleezeballs come together to run an operation.

There are elements of the supernatural & that topic isn't a thrill-ride. The violence may bring to mind Hanna-Barbera, violence just the same.

This isn't a XMAS read but an unexpected & astounding final plot twist might bring it to mind.

Read it and tell me what you think.

[KDub · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whew, I really wasn't sure to expect with this book, but it wasn't that!

The FMC, Teeny Voix, is a young girl who is failed by the adults around her. Her disgusting stepfather molests her while her mother turns a blind eye to the abuse. She sends a letter to someone, which causes a creature to maul her stepfather to death. Teeny and her mother then go on the run, away from the "White Van People" - a ring of child traffickers. We're also introduced to Detective "Paunch" Perez, who's hellbent on protecting Teeny.

The story was very unique and kept me interested. I really felt for Teeny and her situation, but felt proud of her for all of the bravery she showed throughout the book. I liked the dual timelines and that some things were left to be solved until the end of the book, though one of the twists was fairly easy to guess.

The only thing keeping me from leaving five stars is that I found the language a little clunky at times, and the way fat people - especially Perez - are described is over the top. We get it, he's fat. Does it really need to be mentioned that many times?

I'll definitely be checking out other books by Sojka, it was a nice deviation from the usual thriller.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Cat B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not what I expected, but ohhhh so much more. I was immediately hooked from the beginning and the hook stayed firmly planted until the very end. What a ride this was, and what an ending. No seeing that one coming although glaring hints are all over the narrative. Written in a then and now fashion, I was a bit confused at the beginning but that cleared up very quickly once I realized that is what was going on. That was on me. The prompts were clearly marked in the chapter titles, I just missed that somehow. The book evoked so many emotions I cannot describe them all. It was an exhilarating read that certainly raised my heartbeat more than once.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my opinion of the tale.

[Sherri Englett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Teeny Voix lies in her bed wrapped up like a burrito with landmines of legos and jacks on the bed, and her stuffed opossum to protect her from her stepfather. While her mom ignores her pleas. White van people is after her because her stepfather sold her to them. Teeny mails a letter and summons a goliath who protects her from anyone that tries to hurt her. Pedro “Paunch” Perez is a Detective that is suspended decides to follow the deaths that was in the area of Teeny was seen. He becomes her protector. I really liked this book and will recommend to my friends.

[Wendi Flint Rank (WendiReviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Humans can be just horrible to each other, no question. And nobody on earth
would be more resilient that young Teeny, who absolutely should NOT have to
be… to say this is heart wrenching and horrible is just not enough.
To say more would be unfair to the folks I am going ask to reach this well
written crime story.
My sincere thanks to Timothy for making sure I read this book ~ I admire you
more with each project you complete!
My thanks to Black Rose writing via BookSirens for providing me with this
download for review purposes.
Book is available 31 October 2024.

[Bailey Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

What is sleep? I couldn't tell you because I was too busy trying to keep up with Teeny Voix and her journey. Thrilling, quizzical, and mesmerizing are just a few words to sum this story up. This book will make you ask yourself a lot of questions, and will make you ponder what you just read in the best way possible. As someone who has lived the horrors that Sojka displays in this story, thank you for reminding me that there are people out there that catch the monsters that haunt our dreams, nightmares, and everyday life. "Claws" was a fast-paced novel that truly ripped into the reader page after page. The characters' wit, determination, and overall individuality makes you feel like you know them and can relate to them. I highly recommend reading this novel, and I look forward to reading more exciting words and stories by this author. I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) and am leaving this review without sponsorship or promotion.

[Monica Nichols · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow. I was hooked from the very beginning. Gave me the shivers throughout the entire book and the ending I never saw coming! I love the hidden meanings behind certain things like the fact Teeny was able to solve unsolvable crimes because of the fact she was abused and could see abusers for what they were. Suspense at its finest. I see the hidden meaning behind the title now! Very clever of the author

[Emily Haynes · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is a legend behind some unsolved murders in Texas. This tells you what really happened. Suspenseful heart touching tale.

[Karissa Rhodes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed

This story was disturbing as any story about child abuse is. The twists the author takes keeps you reading. Great writer and now I'm going to read his other books, starting with 39.
Enjoy!

[Awesterfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the characters!

This book was a surprise in a very good way! Loved it! HIGHLY RECOMMEND! I loved the characters! Read this book!

[Beez Beasley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tim has a knack for grabbing your attention at the beginning and not letting go! Another best seller in the making!

[Misty Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

terrific

Wasn’t too sure I was gonna like it, but SO glad I tried. It was a great job storytelling a subject not easily handled. I will read it over and over.

[Denise Kingham · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a suspenseful, intriguing journey full of unexpected twists and turns. The storyline dives deep, leaving readers to ponder the dark and complex world of child trafficking. It also includes the most epic chase scene ever—I couldn’t put it down! The ending took me completely by surprise, adding to the book’s thrilling impact. I found myself especially captivated by Teeny, one of the main characters—her spunky, strong-willed personality brings a touch of resilience and hope amid the intense plot. Teeny’s enduring relationship with Paunch Perez is truly heartwarming, adding a touching layer to the story. A thought-provoking and unforgettable read. Definitely 5 stars!

[Rebecca Soule · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great story! I love how different elements and timelines come together to reveal all the pieces of the puzzle. Teeny and the rest of the characters are vividly imagined and you'll love and hate them! The ending has a plot twist I didn't see coming, as I glossed over a key element early on in the story.
Give this one a read!
I received a free ARC copy from BookSirens and voluntarily leave this review.

[Janet Shawgo · Rating 5 out of 5]

The combination of a suspended detective, a non-speaking child, and two street-smart twins make Tim Sojka’s newest novel Claws a must-read. A story worth telling on the evils of human trafficking and child abuse, with a cat-and-mouse chase ending with some very strange murders. This story will pull you in from the beginning and tug at your heartstrings. Teeny is the child we all need to save. Five Stars!
Award-winning author Janet K. Shawgo

[Sudipta Nandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whoa! Just completed the ride. I just don't know how to define the dots and twists as they combine multiple dimensions and layers of emotional intelligence.

The initial atmosphere surrounding the interstate community and unhealthy lifestyle has a suffocating effect, which nearly seals Tenny's poor fortune. Real parent would do anything to kill child abuser-cum step-dad Flick at any cost. However, characters like Sissie anger my inner child more.

I mean even if you don't have a choice to plan a child, if you become a mother, you become a mother. Period. What kind of mother tolerates people like Flick, knowing Teeny's ordeal? What kind of mother overrides her child's safety for her own super urge to get mingled? Unfortunately, there are many such demons among us. Then, come angels like Paunch, Wexler father and twins with their courage.

I love how Teeny's survival instinct keeps fighting against all odds from the very first abuser. That night her dog is murdered ( witnessed from the Magnolia tree), has a dramatic effect with "white van monsters". However, the White van people and Santa's summer village people add supernatural elements with some odd phrases.

I adore the mad Max vibes of grocery fight on highway chase and painful memories of H7 and April. Harold and April remind us that abusers and bullies exist everywhere and in every social class. I relate to April as I have a personal pain point with male bullies. But, unfortunately, I did not have H7.

Finally, the Val and Lexi twins' network is great to fight against the monsters among us.

P. S. the child abusers' murders are too dramatic but they deserve those. I am hesitant to rate those parts. My inner child loves the deserved ordeals but my logical self states that never happens for real with a sigh (but must happen) .

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sublime Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overall Rating = 4.67

Storyline & Concept = 5
Writing & Delivery = 4
Editorial = 5

Claws is a gripping novel that delves into the depths of darkness and showcases the power of human resilience. Set in the sweltering summer of 1976, the story follows Teeny Voix, a mute eight-year-old girl who finds herself caught in a terrifying web of child trafficking. Teeny, a victim of an abusive stepfather, writes a mysterious letter that summons a mysterious and formidable ally. This unknown friend sets out on a brutal campaign against the White Van People, a child trafficking ring. As the body count rises and the police struggle to make sense of the seemingly impossible deaths, Detective Paunch Perez takes it upon himself to protect Teeny and uncover the truth behind the murders.

The author's vivid descriptions of the brutal heat, the haunting landscape, and the eccentric characters who inhabit this world create a compelling experience for the reader. Teeny's journey is filled with danger, fear, and moments of unexpected hope. The plot twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the shocking reveal at the end. The novel is not only a thrilling mystery but also a powerful exploration of child abuse, human trafficking, and the importance of justice. The novel's message is both timely and relevant, highlighting the need for greater awareness and action to protect vulnerable children. If you're looking for a book that will stay with you long after you've finished reading, this is a must-read. It's a dark and disturbing tale that ultimately offers a glimmer of hope and a call to action.

Sublime Line: “Claws is a dark and twisted tale of survival and justice that exposes a disturbing criminal web.”

[Cam Torrens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eight-year-old Teeny doesn't talk. There's a reason for that. Instead she "sees" what others can't.

Timothy Gene Sojka proves he's the master of Texas horror noir in his stunning new novel, "Claws. Teeny Voix finds herself in a harrowing battle against devilish forces after her stepfather's brutal and mysterious death. Set in the atmospheric Piney Woods of 1970s Texas--a setting embedded in the author's DNA--the novel weaves folklore, raw tension, and mystery to hook readers in.

But here's the subtle power of Sojka's writing: his humor is both macabre and ridiculous--and absolutely the only way to tell this fictional parable of a real-world battle of good vs evil. When I read of a young girl launching #10 cans of pork and beans from the rear of an industrial truck to take out those who would do her harm, I laugh out loud. Because otherwise, I'd cry at her plight.

Grab a can-grenade and hang on for your wildest ride of the year!

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this as an ARC copy.

We first meet Teeny Voix as she is laying in her bed wrapped up like a burrito in her bed with her stuffed opossum ‘Opie’ as she has a floor covered in legos and other ‘battle instruments’ from her bedroom door to her bed in hopes of keeping her stepfather from making it to her. Teeny doesn’t speak with her voice because of what is happening to her. She ends up finding out about what she calls the “White Van People” and due to her mom Sissie having to work so much, Sissie doesn’t believe they are real. Until the first death happens and Sissie sees them for herself. Which leads to their life on the run and Paunch finding out about Teeny.

Paunch ends up a suspend detective but that doesn’t stop him from becoming Teeny’s protector.

[A.J. McCarthy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sojka has done it again with this imaginative, action-filled, pulse-pounding novel that combines his trademark thriller style with a touch of horror. From the first page, my heart was in my throat, and I didn’t know what to expect or if I would be able to handle it, but I was too intrigued to stop. I wanted to be Teeny Voix’s protector, but that job was taken by an undeterred, suspended detective who was like a dog with a bone. And he wasn’t the only one watching Teeny’s back… Taking on the disturbing subject matter of child trafficking in the 1970s, Sojka champions the voice of the child.

[Joan Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is very hard and brutal and brings lots of tissues.

Slavery is still present in this modern time. It's called by the name of Trafficking.

This story concentrates on the I Ten corridor. Many of the interstate highways are very dangerous places. There truly is a lot of things taken place in plain site. Be aware and Stay safe


I think saying I enjoy this book may not be the exact word to describe how I feel about this book. It's well written and I learned several things. I did feel for the characters involved.

[Brett Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story unlike any other, combining disturbing truths about child smuggling and unsolved murders from the 1970s. I found myself throughout yelling "Yeah" for the main character, Teenie, who would soften even the hardest of hearts. Set in Southeast Texas, Tim takes the reader through a journey that mystifies and entertains. When I have shared the premise of the book with others, without revealing any surprises, they immediately order it for themselves. Well done - would love to see this adapted as a limited series on a streaming service.

[Gary Gerlacher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sojka tackles the challenging topic of child sex trafficking in this 1970’s thriller. Set in southwest Texas along a prominent trafficking corridor, the story follows the heart wrenching journey of Teeny Voix as she attempts to escape from the White Van People she has been sold to. Her survival seems unlikely until she meets Pedro, Paunch Perez, a suspended detective and her new protector. It’s an emotional story with twists and turns that will leave you guessing until the end.

[Carolyn Valdez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a (new to me) author, and I will definitely be looking for more of his works. This story hooked me from the beginning and never let go till the end. I can’t wait to see what Mr. Sojka has to offer us in his other stories. If you enjoy suspense, mystery, twist, and turns and a little bit of paranormal then I think you will enjoy this story.


I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review

[Juke · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a total on the top level. I've never felt so much interest ,at the bigginig i didn't understand a bit ,but the ending was a bit of disappointment.

I would have loved if it was a monster instead of Santa vehicles.

I received an advance review copy for free in booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Annemarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is all about resilience.

Faced with a mother who chose to ignore what was happening to her daughter, Teenie could have just given up, and who would have blamed her? Instead, Teenie learned how to stay hidden when needed, how to defend herself when required, and how to accept the unexplainable.

This was not an easy read considering the main topic. These predators still walk amongst us today. Guard your children closely, both inside and outside the home. Learn to recognise the signs.

I received a free Advance Reader Copy of Claws through BookSirens and have chosen to leave a review.

[rose nanney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Riveting!!!

This read was a wild roller-coaster ride that brought laughter, tears and had me forgetting to breathe at times. The heart of little Teenie was amazing and I wanted to be right there helping her take out the monsters! Such a terrible subject, child trafficking. Thanks for such a thought provoking story.

[henry smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don’t know how I feel about this book. Nothing like i would have expected. Close to being insane but one that sticks in your head. Plenty of excitement. Interesting characters. Just plain wild. Violence murder and revenge by crazy unsuspecting people who you won’t believe. The whole book is insanely good

[Regina Buttner · Rating 5 out of 5]

A rip-roaring trip back to 1970s trailer park Texas, where a fantastical team of evildoers meets its match in a rule-breaking detective, a pair of 12-year-old terror twins, and a plucky little girl who uses her wits to survive. CLAWS is magical reality at its rollicking best.