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Tucker #1 - 1.5
Tucker's Way / For Tucker
The Omnibus Edition of Tucker's Way and For Tucker After enduring a childhood of horrific abuse and crushing poverty, Tucker seeks refuge in her rural Tennessee home. The three grandchildren she is raising are her only connection to the outside, and her demeanor is purposefully rough. But her world is turned upside down when a new neighbor, Ella, moves into the old McDaniel place next door. Ella seeks solace on the same country road after overcoming cancer. Although she is Tucker’s peer agewise, she was raised in a world of privilege and opportunity. Still, Ella shares a tragic part of Tucker’s experience―she also suffered abuse. Hers was at the hands of her husband, a prominent judge in the community and Tucker’s sworn enemy. When Tucker finds herself at risk of losing custody of her beloved youngest grandchild and worse, the child’s mother is murdered, she draws support and strength from her new friendship with Ella. These two women from disparate backgrounds form a fierce bond, and they weather life’s storms together with faith, love, and determination.
343 pages, Paperback
First published December 9, 2014
2075 people are currently reading
2016 people want to read
About the author
David Johnson
21 books179 followersDavid Johnson has developed a reputation as a writer of "books with heart." His books feature strong, unforgettable characters from humble backgrounds who have to grapple with the unexpected turns of everyday life.
He is the author of the riveting "Tucker" series, one of the best-selling series on Amazon. The series has collected over 5,000 reviews, averaging 4.7 stars, and sales of the books will soon approach 500,000 copies.
Toby, his next book, following the Tucker series, is a story about a dog, a woman who has gotten lost in addiction, and a hermit who has hidden from his past for decades.
The Woodcutter's Wife, a Civil War era, historical romance, was his next book. It is a story of love lost and love found.
And his newest release is The Last Patient. A story of secrets, resentment, regret, and redemption.
David maintains a very busy life outside of writing. He's a full-time Marriage and Family Therapist, is Director of a community chorus that performs all across the Southeast, performing 15 shows a year. He maintains a blog: www.thefrontwindow.wordpress.com . He's been married for 44 years, has two daughters and six grandchildren.
He would love to hear from you. Send him a note to davidjohnsonbooks@gmail.com and join him on Facebook - David Johnson, author
He is the author of the riveting "Tucker" series, one of the best-selling series on Amazon. The series has collected over 5,000 reviews, averaging 4.7 stars, and sales of the books will soon approach 500,000 copies.
Toby, his next book, following the Tucker series, is a story about a dog, a woman who has gotten lost in addiction, and a hermit who has hidden from his past for decades.
The Woodcutter's Wife, a Civil War era, historical romance, was his next book. It is a story of love lost and love found.
And his newest release is The Last Patient. A story of secrets, resentment, regret, and redemption.
David maintains a very busy life outside of writing. He's a full-time Marriage and Family Therapist, is Director of a community chorus that performs all across the Southeast, performing 15 shows a year. He maintains a blog: www.thefrontwindow.wordpress.com . He's been married for 44 years, has two daughters and six grandchildren.
He would love to hear from you. Send him a note to davidjohnsonbooks@gmail.com and join him on Facebook - David Johnson, author
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 529 reviews
July 21, 2015
A special thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Wow, TUCKERS WAY (The Tucker Series Book #1) may be one of the best books of 2014! You know you have discovered a winning book, when you begin sending out recommendations to all of your reading friends, before you are even fifty percent through the book. I love discovering new found authors!
David Johnson’s TUCKER'S WAY is a powerful, heartfelt and emotional story of one woman’s journey from incest, abuse, poverty, to the raising of her three grandchildren – a book of love, loss, faith; tragedy and triumph, filled with humor.
Tucker is dirt poor with a lack of education and social graces. A single grown woman, living on welfare, and raising her three grandchildren in rural northwest Tennessee. She has experienced a hard life, with years of abuse since childhood, and practically raised herself. Now her youngest grandchild April will not speak and social services is threatening to take her way, so she turns to her new neighbor for help. (and Tucker does not do help well).
Tucker has made plenty many enemies in the small Tennessee country southern town, as loves to carry an axe, and use it when needed, and can fight like a man. She has hardened herself and does not trust others with a temper; however, she is fearless when it comes to protecting those she loves.
When she finds out her main enemy (The Judge)’s ex-wife has moved in next door, she is furious. Ella, has a difficult time breaking down the walls to try and befriend her neighbor Tucker (too funny). However, Ella has experienced cancer, a cheating and abusive husband and a son following in his dad’s footsteps, so she knows heartache, as well. When these two meet, both from different walks of life, they learn from one another in so many ways. When troubles surface, they learn their lives connect in many different ways and develop a friendship and an unbreakable bond, leaving you smiling.
For fans of historical fiction Dollbaby, by Laura Lane McNeal, and Necessary Lies by Diane Chamberlain, TUCKER'S WAY and The Tucker Series is for you! These were two of my most beloved books and this one sits next to them. A bittersweet "must read series" which will keep you laughing and crying, at the same time.
I am so delighted I saw the popup ad on the Goodreads (they work); when I read the summary, knew this was going to be a special book to treasure; and immediately requested it through NetGalley.
David Johnson knows southern fiction, from the country southern dialect, the setting, and the characters. You care about the characters, as if you were there in the log cabin next to the fire, or sitting on the swing or rocker on the porch, or listening to the words of the southern songs.
Johnson's extensive background with over over thirty-five years as a licensed marriage and family therapist with a master’s degree in social work and over a decade of experience as a minister, speaks throughout the pages with in depth insights into social issues, poverty, human behavior, family dynamics, abuse, incest, dysfunction, emotions of the heart and life's lessons.
Now, I am dying to read the other books in the series, and have been busy requesting as have to find out more about Tucker, Ella, April, March, and August.
Tucker has seen and experienced abuse like no child, teen or adult should ever see, which has hardened her heart; however, she reminds me of Tyler Perry's Madea, with her manly rough and tough exterior, keeping you in stitches with her wit and humor, and a true fearless best friend to those she protects and loves. A huge fan of Madea, as have seen all the movies, and had to laugh when I read other reviewers with the same thought.
Love the relationship between Ella and Tucker, from two different backgrounds. This book would make a great movie! I also enjoyed reading about the author's inspiration for writing the series, to help others who find themselves in similar circumstances, as they overcome tragedy.
Will keep my fingers crossed to get an ARC, as do not think I can wait until Dec 9 to learn the fate of my new friends.
Judith D. Collins Must Read Books
Wow, TUCKERS WAY (The Tucker Series Book #1) may be one of the best books of 2014! You know you have discovered a winning book, when you begin sending out recommendations to all of your reading friends, before you are even fifty percent through the book. I love discovering new found authors!
David Johnson’s TUCKER'S WAY is a powerful, heartfelt and emotional story of one woman’s journey from incest, abuse, poverty, to the raising of her three grandchildren – a book of love, loss, faith; tragedy and triumph, filled with humor.
Tucker is dirt poor with a lack of education and social graces. A single grown woman, living on welfare, and raising her three grandchildren in rural northwest Tennessee. She has experienced a hard life, with years of abuse since childhood, and practically raised herself. Now her youngest grandchild April will not speak and social services is threatening to take her way, so she turns to her new neighbor for help. (and Tucker does not do help well).
Tucker has made plenty many enemies in the small Tennessee country southern town, as loves to carry an axe, and use it when needed, and can fight like a man. She has hardened herself and does not trust others with a temper; however, she is fearless when it comes to protecting those she loves.
When she finds out her main enemy (The Judge)’s ex-wife has moved in next door, she is furious. Ella, has a difficult time breaking down the walls to try and befriend her neighbor Tucker (too funny). However, Ella has experienced cancer, a cheating and abusive husband and a son following in his dad’s footsteps, so she knows heartache, as well. When these two meet, both from different walks of life, they learn from one another in so many ways. When troubles surface, they learn their lives connect in many different ways and develop a friendship and an unbreakable bond, leaving you smiling.
For fans of historical fiction Dollbaby, by Laura Lane McNeal, and Necessary Lies by Diane Chamberlain, TUCKER'S WAY and The Tucker Series is for you! These were two of my most beloved books and this one sits next to them. A bittersweet "must read series" which will keep you laughing and crying, at the same time.
I am so delighted I saw the popup ad on the Goodreads (they work); when I read the summary, knew this was going to be a special book to treasure; and immediately requested it through NetGalley.
David Johnson knows southern fiction, from the country southern dialect, the setting, and the characters. You care about the characters, as if you were there in the log cabin next to the fire, or sitting on the swing or rocker on the porch, or listening to the words of the southern songs.
Johnson's extensive background with over over thirty-five years as a licensed marriage and family therapist with a master’s degree in social work and over a decade of experience as a minister, speaks throughout the pages with in depth insights into social issues, poverty, human behavior, family dynamics, abuse, incest, dysfunction, emotions of the heart and life's lessons.
Now, I am dying to read the other books in the series, and have been busy requesting as have to find out more about Tucker, Ella, April, March, and August.
Tucker has seen and experienced abuse like no child, teen or adult should ever see, which has hardened her heart; however, she reminds me of Tyler Perry's Madea, with her manly rough and tough exterior, keeping you in stitches with her wit and humor, and a true fearless best friend to those she protects and loves. A huge fan of Madea, as have seen all the movies, and had to laugh when I read other reviewers with the same thought.
Love the relationship between Ella and Tucker, from two different backgrounds. This book would make a great movie! I also enjoyed reading about the author's inspiration for writing the series, to help others who find themselves in similar circumstances, as they overcome tragedy.
Next on my list!
All available, 12/9/2014
An Unexpected Frost
(The Tucker Series Book 2)
Currently reading
April's Rain
(The Tucker Series Book 3)
March On
(The Tucker Series Book 4)
Will keep my fingers crossed to get an ARC, as do not think I can wait until Dec 9 to learn the fate of my new friends.
Judith D. Collins Must Read Books
September 2, 2024
Secrets.
Fairly early on in reading this book I knew most of what was going to happen. One twist was interesting. The story is about kindness, tragedy, secrets and more.
Fairly early on in reading this book I knew most of what was going to happen. One twist was interesting. The story is about kindness, tragedy, secrets and more.
August 16, 2015
This was a wonderful story of love, friendship and resilience. I have to admit it started off a lil bumpy... parts of the story felt forced and a bit far fetched. However, Johnson found his way and ended up writing a very memorable novel. I really oved Tucker and think she will be one of those characters that years from now I'll still be thinking about. Solid 4 stars.
November 9, 2016
Wonderful story.
Must be read by everyone. Author David Johnson writes about two women, life they lived and living so completely different, but they became true friends.
Tucker, abused by her father, no education and raising her three grandchildren on welfare.
Ella is educated, divorced from her abusive husband, who's a judge. Recovering from breast cancer, moves to rural northwest Tennessee. Her closest neighbor is Tucker. Book is filled with humor, faith, tragedy and loss. Two very strong female characters. Will be reading all the books in this series. Enjoyed very much narration by Laural Merlington.
Must be read by everyone. Author David Johnson writes about two women, life they lived and living so completely different, but they became true friends.
Tucker, abused by her father, no education and raising her three grandchildren on welfare.
Ella is educated, divorced from her abusive husband, who's a judge. Recovering from breast cancer, moves to rural northwest Tennessee. Her closest neighbor is Tucker. Book is filled with humor, faith, tragedy and loss. Two very strong female characters. Will be reading all the books in this series. Enjoyed very much narration by Laural Merlington.
August 2, 2015
Tucker is poor, really poor, she was abused in every way as a child. At 16 she was pregnant and on her own. Her parents are both deceased. She has a small farm, a barn and a house that has cardboard in place of drywall, the outhouse is outside, of course. Her three grandchildren live with her. One of the children, the smallest, April doesn't speak, and if Tucker can't get her to speak then child services is taking her away from Tucker.
Ella moves in next door into a house that has all modern conveniences. Ella has just gone through chemotherapy for breast cancer and she is bald. She is the ex-wife of "The Judge," who was anf still is physically abusing her. Ella and the The Judge have one son. The Judge is Tucker's worst enemy and she has plenty of reasons to feel that way.
Tucker and Ella are very different people. Tucker is rough and tough, strong and forceful and has no time for nonsense. Ella is sweet and well brought up, and she has compassion for others. But soon Tucker & Ella form a friendship. Tucker has never trusted anyone in her life, except for two people, and she is suspicious of Ella, but nevertheless the develop a friendship.
What is so striking about this book to me is the subject of poverty vs having the funds to live a normal life. But as human beings we all have certain things in common such as the ability to trust, to love and to respect each other. However when you have been abused all your life, trust, love and respect doesn't come easy if at all. This is a story about having to trust someone, it is about grief and poverty, and the results of abuse. There is a touch of Christianity throughout the book and it really added a realness to the story for me. What songs are sang at a funeral? What prayers are said at the dinner table?
The one thing that bothered me about this book is that the author didn't address an issue with April that I found paramount, and that needed answered,....perhaps in the follow on novel.
Ella moves in next door into a house that has all modern conveniences. Ella has just gone through chemotherapy for breast cancer and she is bald. She is the ex-wife of "The Judge," who was anf still is physically abusing her. Ella and the The Judge have one son. The Judge is Tucker's worst enemy and she has plenty of reasons to feel that way.
Tucker and Ella are very different people. Tucker is rough and tough, strong and forceful and has no time for nonsense. Ella is sweet and well brought up, and she has compassion for others. But soon Tucker & Ella form a friendship. Tucker has never trusted anyone in her life, except for two people, and she is suspicious of Ella, but nevertheless the develop a friendship.
What is so striking about this book to me is the subject of poverty vs having the funds to live a normal life. But as human beings we all have certain things in common such as the ability to trust, to love and to respect each other. However when you have been abused all your life, trust, love and respect doesn't come easy if at all. This is a story about having to trust someone, it is about grief and poverty, and the results of abuse. There is a touch of Christianity throughout the book and it really added a realness to the story for me. What songs are sang at a funeral? What prayers are said at the dinner table?
The one thing that bothered me about this book is that the author didn't address an issue with April that I found paramount, and that needed answered,....perhaps in the follow on novel.
June 7, 2016
I liked this book, I thought it was engaging and the characters were reasonably well portrayed. i listened to the audible version and had a hard time understanding some of the names.
It's the story of Tucker, a woman from a very poor rural area in Tennessee who grew up abused by her father, a mother herself at 16, not only brings up a daughter but later on has to raise her daughter's three children. She does so as best she knows how, with little education and no funds. She's crude, rude, honest, and a bit of a broken human being. A woman moves in next door who is everything that Tucker isn't. Educated, with enough of an income to have indoor plumbing and warm hearted -- they form an unlikely friendship. Both of them have been abused, both are resilient, strong women in different ways.
There's also a mystery involving Tucker's daughter Maisie and an issue with one of the granddaughter's speech impediment.
Was the book amazing? Not really. But it was enjoyable and engaging.
It's the story of Tucker, a woman from a very poor rural area in Tennessee who grew up abused by her father, a mother herself at 16, not only brings up a daughter but later on has to raise her daughter's three children. She does so as best she knows how, with little education and no funds. She's crude, rude, honest, and a bit of a broken human being. A woman moves in next door who is everything that Tucker isn't. Educated, with enough of an income to have indoor plumbing and warm hearted -- they form an unlikely friendship. Both of them have been abused, both are resilient, strong women in different ways.
There's also a mystery involving Tucker's daughter Maisie and an issue with one of the granddaughter's speech impediment.
Was the book amazing? Not really. But it was enjoyable and engaging.
July 17, 2021
My mom recommended this book to me so I am sorry if you're reading this, Mom.
First of all, I can understand why someone would like this book. It is about justice and vengeance and I get it.
It is just not my kind of book. I really don't care to read about real world problems lol. Give me a fantastical conflict that will never happen any day. I also didn't really like anyone in the story and it was kind of just depressing.
Again, I get it but it just wasn't for me.
First of all, I can understand why someone would like this book. It is about justice and vengeance and I get it.
It is just not my kind of book. I really don't care to read about real world problems lol. Give me a fantastical conflict that will never happen any day. I also didn't really like anyone in the story and it was kind of just depressing.
Again, I get it but it just wasn't for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2024
Two women, equals on the surface, are neighbors in the farming outskirts of the small town of Dresden, Tennessee. Tucker is rough cut, a tobacco-chewing third-generation farmer's wife with little education and three grandchildren she is needing to raise. Ella is an educated city woman, new to the neighborhood and just through chemo and surgery for breast cancer, a woman with little in common with Tucker - except that she too was the victim of abuse by her husband. And they share a love of and a protective instinct for children. And it is the children that will bring this story to life. It is the journey beneath the surface that warms your heart and keeps you reading way into the night. I am very pleased to have found David Johnson. There are a couple more books in the Tucker series, but he has many more, looking delicious and next in line. It behooves me to recommend him to friends and family and add him to my favorite author's lists. His style is definitely 'Down Home'.
REVIEWED on November 28, 2023, at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, and BookBub. Not available for review on B&N or Kobo.
REVIEWED on November 28, 2023, at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, and BookBub. Not available for review on B&N or Kobo.
November 24, 2015
Wish I could give this book a ten rating!
David Johnson's writing is superlative. His characters are so touching and true. I cried several times reading third
book about the strong and honest woman Tucker. The sad thing is these things happen to real people and animals everyday. I was so happy for her friendship with another strong and wise woman Ella. The characters in this sorry we're so real and narcissistic like Tucker and Ella's only children. Or some kind hearted like the sheriff and Smiley Carter. Turkey's grand daughter was an injured little soul that you cheered for when she was helped by the wisdom and kindness exceptof Ella. I don'want to give any of this wonderful story away
Orphan Annie
David Johnson's writing is superlative. His characters are so touching and true. I cried several times reading third
book about the strong and honest woman Tucker. The sad thing is these things happen to real people and animals everyday. I was so happy for her friendship with another strong and wise woman Ella. The characters in this sorry we're so real and narcissistic like Tucker and Ella's only children. Or some kind hearted like the sheriff and Smiley Carter. Turkey's grand daughter was an injured little soul that you cheered for when she was helped by the wisdom and kindness exceptof Ella. I don'want to give any of this wonderful story away
Orphan Annie
December 9, 2015
4.5 stars! Story centered around the bond of two women from completely different backgrounds. It will make you alternatively laugh,gasp, and sigh. Some parts were difficult to read because of the extreme poverty and abuse. However, I'm so glad I stuck with it because a three star beginning became almost five stars by the end. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys stories of women who transform their lives after discovering their own power.
March 29, 2016
I just couldn't give it more than two stars. The story was good, but the execution of it was lacking. It seemed contrived, with events forced in order to make the storyline work.
July 30, 2016
Riveting
As good a story as I have read in some time. Compelling characters whose stories are woven together masterfully. Rich, lush description.
As good a story as I have read in some time. Compelling characters whose stories are woven together masterfully. Rich, lush description.
June 28, 2021
Powerful book!
June 1, 2018
The ending was not a big surprise.
August 15, 2018
The book was amazing
April 13, 2020
This book has an incredible story of acceptance and unconditional love. The story focused on the bond of two women from completely different backgrounds. Alternatively, it will make you laugh, gasp and sigh. It invites the reader to question their own values and challenge their own motives.
April 18, 2025
Solid 4
This was an easy, quick read and had it not been for life getting in the way I would have knocked it out in about 24 hours. You really get drawn in to the character development and overall story. I was also not prepared for the twist in the story, I mean you kind of see it develop but then it just hits you in the later half of the book out of no where.
I will be continuing the series.
This was an easy, quick read and had it not been for life getting in the way I would have knocked it out in about 24 hours. You really get drawn in to the character development and overall story. I was also not prepared for the twist in the story, I mean you kind of see it develop but then it just hits you in the later half of the book out of no where.
I will be continuing the series.
May 23, 2018
for me - IMO: this was about overcoming differences, strength and resilience. It was rape, poverty, dismemberment, murder, incest, abuse on so many levels, neglect on so many levels, etc it went into details about characters that were not important and overall I should have given up on reading this. There are many other books about overcoming differences, strength and resilience, that are better reads. I am quite surprised at the rating that this book has received. But to each their own. Glad others like it, however, it was not 'my cup of tea' or a book I would recommend reading to others.
January 11, 2015
A refreshing perspective on humanity
This book is a wonderful story of acceptance and unconditional love. It makes the reader question their own values and challenge their own motives. In short it teaches one the impact judgment of another with no cause is not only wrong but can be life altering for the one being judged.
This book is a wonderful story of acceptance and unconditional love. It makes the reader question their own values and challenge their own motives. In short it teaches one the impact judgment of another with no cause is not only wrong but can be life altering for the one being judged.
February 5, 2015
Gripping Story
I gave this a five star as I had difficulty putting the book down. The author grabs your attention fast and takes you on a very vivid ride quickly. I would recommend this book to my friends without hesitation. I have now started book two which I am sure will be just as good.
I gave this a five star as I had difficulty putting the book down. The author grabs your attention fast and takes you on a very vivid ride quickly. I would recommend this book to my friends without hesitation. I have now started book two which I am sure will be just as good.
September 30, 2016
I didn't realize I would love this book as much as I have! I certainly intend to read all the books in this series. Far from being just a feel-good story about two neighbors in rural Tennessee, this book has all the suspense and tragedy, adventure, etc., that one could ever want. I highly recommend this book.
October 12, 2015
Riveting
If I didn't have to pause for things like sleep, I believe I would have finished this in less time. The characters are varied and not at all stereotypical. Now I have to get the next installment!
If I didn't have to pause for things like sleep, I believe I would have finished this in less time. The characters are varied and not at all stereotypical. Now I have to get the next installment!
November 21, 2015
Loved this book the whole way through! I didn't want I it to end!
The perfect combination of sweet and sour make for the best pie. This darling story of love, the atrocities of life and friendship will keep you reading till the final word.
The perfect combination of sweet and sour make for the best pie. This darling story of love, the atrocities of life and friendship will keep you reading till the final word.
December 24, 2017
A Must Read
A well written story, and definitely one of my favorite books. There must be a movie deal in the making.
A well written story, and definitely one of my favorite books. There must be a movie deal in the making.
February 19, 2018
I found this book to be compelling. It is the story of two very different women and the trust and love they found in a true friendship. Tucker who is rough and tough on the outside,dresses like a man, is uneducated, speaks her mind, has a daughter who is the town whore and is raising her three grandchildren, two boys and a little girl that does not speak. She was sexually abused for many years by her father who got her pregnant at age 15. One night while he was abusing her,she was able to reach an axe and killed him, She took his body out to a lake, tied cement blocks to various body parts and threw them in the lake. She came home and burned all her "girlie" clothes determined never again to look like a woman, The other woman in this story is Ella, the ex-wife of Judge Jack McDade, Tucker's sworn enemy. Ella, a very refined woman, is recently divorced from the Judge, who abused her physically and emotionally,and had numerous affairs throughout the many years of their marriage. With her small divorce settlement, she buys the place of Tucker's deceased neighbor. She has one son who is like his father in many ways, and they are not good ways.
As the story develops, we see the love Tucker has for her grandchildren and see how hard she works to provide for them. Ella is lonesome, realizing she has no friends because Judge jack was so controlling and abusive, he kept her from seeking friends. She only knew and assetetsociated with those that the Judge wanted her to be around. Ella makes the first attempt at friendship, but because Tucker only trusts a couple of people, she thinks Ella will be "out to get her". After a rocky start, the friendship develops between them, although guarded at times in Tucker's case.
But when she is told that the state will take 6 year old, April from her if she is not talking by the end of the Christmas break, she asks Ella to take her and see if she can get April to talk. The school thinks that April is retarded because she is mute. Ella takes this challenge, gets books from the library, but nothing seems to work until she discovers a way through music, April is able to speak and shows everyone that she is not retarded, yet she stays "a little longer" with Ella.
The story does not end here, but gets even more interesting, as we find that Mazie, Tucker's daughter has not been seen in months, only to find out that she was killed when she was given an overdose of pills by a man she had been with off and on for seven years. After she had stopped breathing, he took her body and tied cement blocks to her arms, legs, head and threw her overboard in the same place that Tucker had done with her father. The plot thickens when we find out that the killer was Cade McDade, Ella's son. There is some evidence that Cade had done it, but it wasn't until a letter from Mazie to Tucker, found in the family Bible, in which she names the name of each of her children's father, and says if Tucker is reading the letter Mazie is dead and that Cade would have been the one who killed her.
Cade has told the investigators that he was with his mother on the date in question, giving her a Valentine. Cade and Judge Jack go to Ella to try and convince her to give Cade an alibi, but he sheriff and the District Attorney, Cade's boss, also show up and because Tucker has heard the loud voices, she come charging in, breaking down the door with her trusty axe and ready to kill Judge jack, but she is stopped by Ella who has the final say. She tells them all what Tucker really is like, that she was with Tucker when when the letter was found and that she would not lie for Cade. Cade is arrested and ed out by the sheriff, while Tucker opens her arms to Ella, something she has never done and tells Ella that she loves her. Read this book and then evaluate your own friendships.
As the story develops, we see the love Tucker has for her grandchildren and see how hard she works to provide for them. Ella is lonesome, realizing she has no friends because Judge jack was so controlling and abusive, he kept her from seeking friends. She only knew and assetetsociated with those that the Judge wanted her to be around. Ella makes the first attempt at friendship, but because Tucker only trusts a couple of people, she thinks Ella will be "out to get her". After a rocky start, the friendship develops between them, although guarded at times in Tucker's case.
But when she is told that the state will take 6 year old, April from her if she is not talking by the end of the Christmas break, she asks Ella to take her and see if she can get April to talk. The school thinks that April is retarded because she is mute. Ella takes this challenge, gets books from the library, but nothing seems to work until she discovers a way through music, April is able to speak and shows everyone that she is not retarded, yet she stays "a little longer" with Ella.
The story does not end here, but gets even more interesting, as we find that Mazie, Tucker's daughter has not been seen in months, only to find out that she was killed when she was given an overdose of pills by a man she had been with off and on for seven years. After she had stopped breathing, he took her body and tied cement blocks to her arms, legs, head and threw her overboard in the same place that Tucker had done with her father. The plot thickens when we find out that the killer was Cade McDade, Ella's son. There is some evidence that Cade had done it, but it wasn't until a letter from Mazie to Tucker, found in the family Bible, in which she names the name of each of her children's father, and says if Tucker is reading the letter Mazie is dead and that Cade would have been the one who killed her.
Cade has told the investigators that he was with his mother on the date in question, giving her a Valentine. Cade and Judge Jack go to Ella to try and convince her to give Cade an alibi, but he sheriff and the District Attorney, Cade's boss, also show up and because Tucker has heard the loud voices, she come charging in, breaking down the door with her trusty axe and ready to kill Judge jack, but she is stopped by Ella who has the final say. She tells them all what Tucker really is like, that she was with Tucker when when the letter was found and that she would not lie for Cade. Cade is arrested and ed out by the sheriff, while Tucker opens her arms to Ella, something she has never done and tells Ella that she loves her. Read this book and then evaluate your own friendships.
May 15, 2017
Tucker; What a Wonderful Courageous Woman!
This story is about a little baby girl, who's innocence was taken from her before she was six years old! Her life was hell on earth. She was abused,, beaten, and staved. She had no one to turn to for help or love.
On her sixteenth birthday, her life started to change for the better. It didn't take long for it to change. She found out she was pregnant! She didn't want the baby. The girl is a handful, to raise.
Tucker ended up raising her three grandchildren, although she was poor, without education she does her best to take care of the kids.
Her life got better when a cancer survivor, Ellie move in besides her. They had a lot of stormy weather to go though. The three grandchildren had hard life, too.
This story took some really serious turn and curves; the reader thinks they got it figured out and Boom it goes a different path!
I loved this story. It one of best I've read in a long time. I would recommend it to everyone. You won't be able to put it down.
This story is about a little baby girl, who's innocence was taken from her before she was six years old! Her life was hell on earth. She was abused,, beaten, and staved. She had no one to turn to for help or love.
On her sixteenth birthday, her life started to change for the better. It didn't take long for it to change. She found out she was pregnant! She didn't want the baby. The girl is a handful, to raise.
Tucker ended up raising her three grandchildren, although she was poor, without education she does her best to take care of the kids.
Her life got better when a cancer survivor, Ellie move in besides her. They had a lot of stormy weather to go though. The three grandchildren had hard life, too.
This story took some really serious turn and curves; the reader thinks they got it figured out and Boom it goes a different path!
I loved this story. It one of best I've read in a long time. I would recommend it to everyone. You won't be able to put it down.
January 27, 2021
Tucker is raising three grandchildren out in the country of far northwest Tennessee. Her daughter Maisy is the town tramp. A new neighbor moves in, Ms. Ella with seemingly no chance of becoming friends with the troublesome and backward Tucker. At last, Ella begins to understand Tucker in ways others cannot; Tucker is hiding a dark secret about her father. Ella has a son named Cade who just like his Judge father, is a gadabout town. In this excellently crafted novel, David Johnson has set in my heart a series of characters that seem crafted from my own Tennessee experiences. The pain of the tormented scenes are touching as are the farm life realities. While the book has two distinct stories, it is a continuous story, one leading into the other. I cannot praise this novel highly enough. Johnson may well be one of the most underrated modern writers of Americana. It at times is a painful read because Tucker is just a tragic character. But this novel left me wanting more. And indeed there are other novels to this collection.
March 18, 2018
Wow, just Wow !
This is an incredible novel . "Tucker's Way " is the first time I have read anything by David Johnson . If this is sample of his talent then I've only to say, agin Wow.
Not a easy read,in fact I read in absolute horror at times. Tucker
Is so backwards in her actions along with her total distrust of any one . It is only little by little that Mr.Johnson reveals the motivation for her character. He. Proves to be master at his craft I feel,slowly threading the needle (so to speak ) of this frightening
Yet incredibly human saga. He speaks the truth about the things
That in fact did take place in the back water regions of some places,yes here in the USA. The book connects all the dots and
Turns in the story for a satisfactory ending,leaving me looking forward to more. Be for warned if you do venture into this world
Of rural Tennessee 1970s bring along your hanky,prepare for some unexpected laughter and " t'ell,n'et, like it is........
This is an incredible novel . "Tucker's Way " is the first time I have read anything by David Johnson . If this is sample of his talent then I've only to say, agin Wow.
Not a easy read,in fact I read in absolute horror at times. Tucker
Is so backwards in her actions along with her total distrust of any one . It is only little by little that Mr.Johnson reveals the motivation for her character. He. Proves to be master at his craft I feel,slowly threading the needle (so to speak ) of this frightening
Yet incredibly human saga. He speaks the truth about the things
That in fact did take place in the back water regions of some places,yes here in the USA. The book connects all the dots and
Turns in the story for a satisfactory ending,leaving me looking forward to more. Be for warned if you do venture into this world
Of rural Tennessee 1970s bring along your hanky,prepare for some unexpected laughter and " t'ell,n'et, like it is........
May 20, 2018
I have completed the first in a series of five books by David Johnson. It is a quick read and a sweet story. I enjoyed this book for multiple reasons. After researching the author, I realized that our lives are paralleled in several ways. First, Mr. Johnson (and the setting in this book) is from Northwest TN, where my family is from. Second, Mr. Johnson is a social worker, and received his Master’s Degree from my Alma Mater - The School of Social Work, University of TN, Memphis Branch. The story clearly reflects social work experience. I could relate in so many ways, seeing many of my former clients and colleagues in the characters. Lastly, Mr. Johnson is a choral director. Music even plays a part in the book. I’m a little surprised I have never met the man. Even if you have never been in Northwest TN (God’s country according to my parents!), practiced social work, or Directed a choir, you’d still enjoy the book. I highly recommend it and am looking forward to book 2.
January 15, 2023
OMG!! All the feels!
This book!! I bought the series after seeing something about it on Facebook. It is based in Tennessee, my home. Tucker, the main character is a productive of society's prejudice. Years of gossip have made the town she lives in wary. Then here come Ella, ex wife of the judge who make Tucker's life miserable. Kids, grandkids and friends - they all play a part in this story.
Tucker's daughter is murdered and it turns out that Ella's son did it. Her ex husband comes with him to try to convince her to provide an alibi, but she refuses. Just as the judge starts to get angry and threaten her, the police show up. Then Tucker, hearing shouting coming in like the calvary! The sheriff convinces her to sit down and listen. After all is explained, Care is arrested and Tucker's heart opens. She opens her arms for the first time to embrace her friend Ella in her time of heartbreak.
I cannot wait to continue this series!
This book!! I bought the series after seeing something about it on Facebook. It is based in Tennessee, my home. Tucker, the main character is a productive of society's prejudice. Years of gossip have made the town she lives in wary. Then here come Ella, ex wife of the judge who make Tucker's life miserable. Kids, grandkids and friends - they all play a part in this story.
Tucker's daughter is murdered and it turns out that Ella's son did it. Her ex husband comes with him to try to convince her to provide an alibi, but she refuses. Just as the judge starts to get angry and threaten her, the police show up. Then Tucker, hearing shouting coming in like the calvary! The sheriff convinces her to sit down and listen. After all is explained, Care is arrested and Tucker's heart opens. She opens her arms for the first time to embrace her friend Ella in her time of heartbreak.
I cannot wait to continue this series!
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