A Child to Cry Over

by Vanessa C. Hawkins

Maddy Bell was just eight years old when she was sent away for the murder of a two year old boy living in the rural town of St. George, New Brunswick. Growing up in the church-run community with a life-hardened mother, Maddy has always been an outcast in the wake of her father’s homosexuality. She keeps to herself until authorities discover Sonny’s body on the railroad, but was his death just a terrible accident, or is little Madeline Bell to blame?

The media and the community of St. George are quick to condemn her, and ten years later, when Madeline is released from juvenile detention with a new identity, can she hide her past, forget her roots, and finally be a normal girl in the midst of a media manhunt?

224 pages, Paperback

Published November 30, 2024

Reviews

[Colleen Hood · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read from a local author who lives in St. George, NB

[Allan Hudson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vanessa Hawkins’ latest novel will grip you from the first two sentences. She is best known for her intriguing horror and fantasy stories. This is her first venture into realistic fiction, and what makes it special is not only the clever plot, but Hawkins’ unique voice.
I won’t reveal more about the story but I can tell you it’s a terrific read from a young, talented New Brunswick author. As you near the end of the story you will discover the real adult Maddy Bell and the ending will leave you astonished. Her story received Honourable Mention in the WFNB’s writing competition. It has everything a good tale needs.

[Robyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok I finished a child to cry over by Vanessa Hawkins... I always have a hard time getting into a new author .. it took me a couple chapters till I could fully get into it but I have to say I had a hard time putting this book down. I really enjoyed this book since I am from the area of st. George! I would definitely recommend anyone to read this book!

[Ryan Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the absolute best way possible, I have trouble defining the genre for this book. From the first paragraph, it's clear the horror/true life/psychological thriller story that we're in for. Hawkins does a great job at giving voice to a damaged child molded by harsh circumstances. Couldn't put it down!

[Tammy Morrellis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book

[Josh Landry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

[Jim Fisher · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very close to being a 4-star read, this novel, set in NB, is on the shortlist for a New Brunswick book award, and it's easy to see why, especially as the story unfolds past the halfway point.

[Cherie Queree · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book. Really easy read but gripping at the same time. Really like this author

[Hope Wilkinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite aspect of this book is how the author incorporates Maddy Bells thoughts throughout the changes within her life💕 well written and thought out!

[Sandra Bunting · Rating 3 out of 5]

Following a child killer of a toddler in a small town in Atlantic Canada, looking at her background, her incarceration and her release. Did she do it and kill again?

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is fiction but the way it is written and the details make it seem like it could be the telling of a true crime. It follows the life of this young girl through her becoming an adult and how her poor decision at age 8 forms her life story. Well written story.