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Big Easy Shaman #1
The Rules for Lying
Magic isn’t for sissies.
No good will come from reading this book. The story has theft, murder, corruption, sass talk, demons, animals committing felonies, gleefully plotted revenge, and a host of bad things happening to good people for no particular reason. You won’t encourage any good habits and probably fine tune several bad ones. The only lesson learned is don’t lie unless you have the gift for it.
Peter Whistler is a fifteen year-old orphan living an uneventful life at the Little Angels Home for Orphan Boys. Life in New Jersey is hard during the Great Depression, but Peter discovers an exceptional ability to lie. He hones his talent, convinced it will be the ticket to easy fortune and a life free of responsibilities. He certainly doesn’t foresee the arrival of a murderous conjurer with mysterious designs on a little blind girl named Esther. Drawn into a nefarious plot to unleash a demon, Peter leads Esther on a desperate escape from New Jersey to the Louisiana bayou.
Welcome to Peter Whistler’s world where a little luck, magical lying, and a dash of Cajun crazy can steer even an ordinary orphan to an extraordinary life.
No good will come from reading this book. The story has theft, murder, corruption, sass talk, demons, animals committing felonies, gleefully plotted revenge, and a host of bad things happening to good people for no particular reason. You won’t encourage any good habits and probably fine tune several bad ones. The only lesson learned is don’t lie unless you have the gift for it.
Peter Whistler is a fifteen year-old orphan living an uneventful life at the Little Angels Home for Orphan Boys. Life in New Jersey is hard during the Great Depression, but Peter discovers an exceptional ability to lie. He hones his talent, convinced it will be the ticket to easy fortune and a life free of responsibilities. He certainly doesn’t foresee the arrival of a murderous conjurer with mysterious designs on a little blind girl named Esther. Drawn into a nefarious plot to unleash a demon, Peter leads Esther on a desperate escape from New Jersey to the Louisiana bayou.
Welcome to Peter Whistler’s world where a little luck, magical lying, and a dash of Cajun crazy can steer even an ordinary orphan to an extraordinary life.
327 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2015
193 people are currently reading
267 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
February 19, 2021
New Jersey orphan Peter Whistler lives in a private group home, operated by Mrs Lucy Hart. It's the 1930s, and everyone is suffering through the Great Depression. Everyone except, so far as he can tell, the Grimaldi family ... and they're running booze during Prohibition. Fifteen-year-old Peter can't wait to get out of town.
Mrs. Hart tells Peter that when he turns 18, he will receive $500 to help him make his way in the world. So, he starts planning ways to make himself sound more important, wherever he lands. These become the initial Rules for Lying ... which will become more important to him than he can imagine.
When the Grimaldis are murdered and their blind ward, Esther, is abducted, Peter is determined to help find her ... but it soon becomes apparent that dark magic is afoot -- and only his rules for lying will be able to save the day.
Peter's journey takes him to Atlanta, and then to New Orleans where, with the help of both Creole and Cajun locals, he learns how best to harness his abilities and save his friend forever.
This was an entertaining, well-written piece of historical fantasy. There were some misspellings/incorrect usage in the few French phrases used ("n'est pas" where "n'est ce pas" would have been correct, for example), but I wasn't yanked out of the story by the mistakes. Overall, Peter and his friends were likable and believable -- even in unbelievable situations -- and I enjoyed the book very much.
Mrs. Hart tells Peter that when he turns 18, he will receive $500 to help him make his way in the world. So, he starts planning ways to make himself sound more important, wherever he lands. These become the initial Rules for Lying ... which will become more important to him than he can imagine.
When the Grimaldis are murdered and their blind ward, Esther, is abducted, Peter is determined to help find her ... but it soon becomes apparent that dark magic is afoot -- and only his rules for lying will be able to save the day.
Peter's journey takes him to Atlanta, and then to New Orleans where, with the help of both Creole and Cajun locals, he learns how best to harness his abilities and save his friend forever.
This was an entertaining, well-written piece of historical fantasy. There were some misspellings/incorrect usage in the few French phrases used ("n'est pas" where "n'est ce pas" would have been correct, for example), but I wasn't yanked out of the story by the mistakes. Overall, Peter and his friends were likable and believable -- even in unbelievable situations -- and I enjoyed the book very much.
March 5, 2020
Awesome !!
You are swept away in this story , it’s based in the Great Depression and the characters are beyond interesting.
You are swept away in this story , it’s based in the Great Depression and the characters are beyond interesting.
July 26, 2015
I admit that I have never heard of this author before, but who could pass up a synopsis like this.
It has taken me forever to get around to writing this review. It is not that I did not like the book, I loved it, but for most of it, the book was completely obvious. A good versus evil, that will play well with preteens and those that like a bit of dry snarky humor with their paranormal fantasy.
From the first pages, I was enthralled with the life of Peter Whistler. In 1918, a boy with no name was taken in by Mrs. Hart and given a good life. When each new child came into the Little Angels Home for Orphan Boys, Mrs. Hart worked to find them homes. Peter was different, she kept him close. He may have had run-ins with the local kids and the local law enforcement, but there was still something special about this boy. There is a loyalty between these two and that is challenged on the night that Dr. Pike arrives. With his burning eyes and mind befuddling trickery this conjurer is about to change everyone's world and it is up to Peter Whistler and his Rules for Lying to help his new family.
Rule #1: A lie on the fly will surely die. Lies must be practiced and when you fully believe what you are saying so will the receiver of this lie. This turns out to be the most important one of all. If Peter did not believe that he had to power to save Esther, a blind girl that Pike is determined to use to get past the fiery demon from hell, then all would be lost and the world would forever be at the whim of evil.
Lie #2: Lies prevail with few detail. Once again, keep it simple.
Throughout the book, the reader learns about eight rules that keep Peter and his band of misfit, from the children of society to the families that live in the bayou, from the evil clutches of Feu De L’enfer (The Fire of Hell).
There is a burgeoning story of young love that is awkward and adorable at the same time. This part will make the parents smile and touch a sensitive giggly nerve for younger readers.
As I said earlier, this book is not for everyone. You have to suspend belief - this is a young adult paranormal book and there are a few undertones that could possibly not sit well with your personal religious beliefs and you may have to explain a few things to your younger children.
Most importantly, there is humor and strength and bonding and a sense of family that carries throughout the book. You might not want to read it to younger children that might decide to come up with their own rules, but for older kids that know the difference, you could use this as a family read-a-loud to get everyone laughing and exclaiming at the same time.
It has taken me forever to get around to writing this review. It is not that I did not like the book, I loved it, but for most of it, the book was completely obvious. A good versus evil, that will play well with preteens and those that like a bit of dry snarky humor with their paranormal fantasy.
From the first pages, I was enthralled with the life of Peter Whistler. In 1918, a boy with no name was taken in by Mrs. Hart and given a good life. When each new child came into the Little Angels Home for Orphan Boys, Mrs. Hart worked to find them homes. Peter was different, she kept him close. He may have had run-ins with the local kids and the local law enforcement, but there was still something special about this boy. There is a loyalty between these two and that is challenged on the night that Dr. Pike arrives. With his burning eyes and mind befuddling trickery this conjurer is about to change everyone's world and it is up to Peter Whistler and his Rules for Lying to help his new family.
Rule #1: A lie on the fly will surely die. Lies must be practiced and when you fully believe what you are saying so will the receiver of this lie. This turns out to be the most important one of all. If Peter did not believe that he had to power to save Esther, a blind girl that Pike is determined to use to get past the fiery demon from hell, then all would be lost and the world would forever be at the whim of evil.
Lie #2: Lies prevail with few detail. Once again, keep it simple.
Throughout the book, the reader learns about eight rules that keep Peter and his band of misfit, from the children of society to the families that live in the bayou, from the evil clutches of Feu De L’enfer (The Fire of Hell).
There is a burgeoning story of young love that is awkward and adorable at the same time. This part will make the parents smile and touch a sensitive giggly nerve for younger readers.
As I said earlier, this book is not for everyone. You have to suspend belief - this is a young adult paranormal book and there are a few undertones that could possibly not sit well with your personal religious beliefs and you may have to explain a few things to your younger children.
Most importantly, there is humor and strength and bonding and a sense of family that carries throughout the book. You might not want to read it to younger children that might decide to come up with their own rules, but for older kids that know the difference, you could use this as a family read-a-loud to get everyone laughing and exclaiming at the same time.
March 8, 2020
A solid adventure for kids, with enough action to keep it interesting, and solid opportunity for ongoing character development as the series continues.
September 3, 2018
Excellent YA book that will also entertain adults. Peter is an orphan, raised by Mrs. Hart. He learns he can always tell when someone is lying. As he gets older he learns that a good lie, firmly believed, can become real for other people. Selfishly he uses this ability to steal. When evil comes to their neighborhood he has to decide if others matter to him or if he should just run. Deciding to rescue the blind girl Esther after Pike kills her guardians, he and Mrs. Hart get her free, but in doing so Mrs. Hart finds herself transferred to the body of the neighbor's dog. Now the 3 of them run for their lives. Lots of action and intrigue, laughs and terror, places to go and friends to meet. Wonderful adventure for all.
January 27, 2018
I read everything that L.A. Kelley writes, and have loved every book. This was no exception! I got an ARC of it, but life happened, and I'm just finding the time to review it. She doesn't have cookie cutter stories, and each has it's own special touch of magic. I got totally wrapped up in the characters, anxious to find out what would happen next to each, as I moved from chapter to chapter! I get a kick out of the great humor mixed throughout the story. The ending, as Kelley's always are was great. It's worth the read! Of course, the story doesn't end with this book, and I want to read book two, for sure!
February 20, 2020
Lies are good!
L. A Kelley delivers a delightful romp with The Rules for Lying. Be ready to let loose your willing suspension of disbelief at the tale of demons and evil conjurers vs. a young teller of spectacularly powerful lies (for good), a child seer and a wonderful woman embodies in a terrier. (You thought I was kidding with the suspension of disbelief?). Set during the Great Depression, Kelley snappy dialogue, self-deprecating humor and irreverent characters make this book an effervescent ride. I totally recommend it!
L. A Kelley delivers a delightful romp with The Rules for Lying. Be ready to let loose your willing suspension of disbelief at the tale of demons and evil conjurers vs. a young teller of spectacularly powerful lies (for good), a child seer and a wonderful woman embodies in a terrier. (You thought I was kidding with the suspension of disbelief?). Set during the Great Depression, Kelley snappy dialogue, self-deprecating humor and irreverent characters make this book an effervescent ride. I totally recommend it!
December 30, 2022
Fun book!
Peter is an orphan, living in the orphanage where Mrs Hart, the owner and Peter's guardian, runs the place. The house across the street bursts into flame as Peter watches a suspicious man with glowing eyes start the deadly fire. Their ward, a little blind girl named Esther, is orphaned again and the suspicious man takes her into his custody where he plans to use her for his magic.
Very interesting book.
I really got into the characters and story and I just found that there is another book about Peter which I'm looking forward to reading.
Peter is an orphan, living in the orphanage where Mrs Hart, the owner and Peter's guardian, runs the place. The house across the street bursts into flame as Peter watches a suspicious man with glowing eyes start the deadly fire. Their ward, a little blind girl named Esther, is orphaned again and the suspicious man takes her into his custody where he plans to use her for his magic.
Very interesting book.
I really got into the characters and story and I just found that there is another book about Peter which I'm looking forward to reading.
November 22, 2019
Kelley can tell a good story, and a well-written one as well. This is a YA book and works well as that, but is also an enjoyable read for adults looking for a bit of escape. A teenager in 1930, New Orleans, the bayou, teenage angst in tolerable amounts, alligators, love, and a demon trying to escape hell. What could be wrong? Perfect enjoyment while laid up with a sore foot on a rainy weekend.
June 24, 2020
This young adult was fascinating and unbelievable. Fifteen-year-old orphan Peter Whistler gets involved with Cajun demons from the underworld in an effort to save a little blind girl and the orphanage director, who has been turned into a lap dog. The instructions for telling a good lie are spelled out in verse, and essential to the success of Whistler's venture. There is an entire series of books regarding Peter and his friends. If you like this one, you might like to read the others.
March 6, 2020
Ain't no lie
An exciting read that has the reader dangling on every word. The characters are well developed and soon feel like family. An excellently developed story that takes the reader on an exciting adventure to the magical swamps of Louisiana. Magic is afoot and enemies must be identified and dealt with. Edge of the chair adventure guaranteed to raise your heartbeat.
An exciting read that has the reader dangling on every word. The characters are well developed and soon feel like family. An excellently developed story that takes the reader on an exciting adventure to the magical swamps of Louisiana. Magic is afoot and enemies must be identified and dealt with. Edge of the chair adventure guaranteed to raise your heartbeat.
March 10, 2018
Spiraling adventure
Villains,shamans and flighty young girls. Add adolescence young boy and the adventure is on. Highly recommend. D
Colorful characters. Rich locations. Historical time. Can’t get much better. Oh wait there is the next book...
Villains,shamans and flighty young girls. Add adolescence young boy and the adventure is on. Highly recommend. D
Colorful characters. Rich locations. Historical time. Can’t get much better. Oh wait there is the next book...
March 14, 2018
Rules for lying
Again L A Kelley did not disappoint. Imaginative storyline that was comprehensive, well paced and coherent. Great character development with a nice twist. Enjoyed this book and am keen to read on. Suitable for teenagers and adults.
Again L A Kelley did not disappoint. Imaginative storyline that was comprehensive, well paced and coherent. Great character development with a nice twist. Enjoyed this book and am keen to read on. Suitable for teenagers and adults.
April 15, 2018
Excellent !
I could hardly put this book down! Took a chapter to get into it and almost gave it a pass! So glad I didn’t! Very riveting story and characters. Going to dive into the next one!
I could hardly put this book down! Took a chapter to get into it and almost gave it a pass! So glad I didn’t! Very riveting story and characters. Going to dive into the next one!
September 22, 2021
Refreshing romp
From New Jersey to New Orleans with orphans and shamans and demons. Oh my! What a fun and original read! I'm awful at recapping stories but I can tell what I like to read and this was a read I liked. 😁
From New Jersey to New Orleans with orphans and shamans and demons. Oh my! What a fun and original read! I'm awful at recapping stories but I can tell what I like to read and this was a read I liked. 😁
June 20, 2024
Fun
Lots of adventure. Wonderful characters. A blind girl, an orphan, and a dog hop a train with a man who needs to get back to New Orleans only to meet a frog king shaman. Such fun.
Lots of adventure. Wonderful characters. A blind girl, an orphan, and a dog hop a train with a man who needs to get back to New Orleans only to meet a frog king shaman. Such fun.
March 13, 2018
3.5 star rounds up because it made me teary
Harry Potter meets Star Wars meets All Dogs Go To Heaven. It's pretty good.
Harry Potter meets Star Wars meets All Dogs Go To Heaven. It's pretty good.
March 23, 2018
Spirited
Fast, fun, characters are easily relatable, page turner, good read. Even though I knew what was going to happen to the main characters it was fun seeing how they got there.
Fast, fun, characters are easily relatable, page turner, good read. Even though I knew what was going to happen to the main characters it was fun seeing how they got there.
December 14, 2019
A fun read.
Well written with interesting characters. Loved the era and the locales. Ending was a little predictable but overall a fun read.
Well written with interesting characters. Loved the era and the locales. Ending was a little predictable but overall a fun read.
February 1, 2020
Lies
Couldn't put this book down. Though its geared more towards young adults, this book is very refreshing.
Very well written, very thrilling.
Couldn't put this book down. Though its geared more towards young adults, this book is very refreshing.
Very well written, very thrilling.
February 15, 2020
Really enjoyed this story
February 18, 2020
this was a really strange book! he has a gift to tell when people lie. he sees things too. theres magic and murder involved in this book. read to find out what happens.
February 24, 2020
good vs evil done in an entertaining way. Loved this well done tale with its truly interesting characters. A definite page turner.
October 2, 2020
Delightful
This book was a delightful surprise. Lots of adventure with a bit of Cajun thrown in. I will definitely have to try other books by this author.
This book was a delightful surprise. Lots of adventure with a bit of Cajun thrown in. I will definitely have to try other books by this author.
November 12, 2020
Best thing I've read in a while. Can't wait to read the next book. A grand adventure takes an Orphan boy to seek his fortune in unexpected ways while building his own new family.
October 2, 2021
Three stars for good characters, but I'm DNFing at 45% due to disinterest in the current plot development in addition to the general haphazardness.
January 6, 2022
This whole series was lighthearted fun.
September 25, 2022
What a fun read! What's not to like about learning to tell a lie so convincing that it can create a 3-D physical image that can be touched, smelled, and believed. Loved this story!
November 4, 2025
More than meets the eye.
You just don’t know what you’re capable of until you hit hard times. Very good book, great characters. I really enjoyed this adventure.
You just don’t know what you’re capable of until you hit hard times. Very good book, great characters. I really enjoyed this adventure.
May 1, 2015
I loved this story! Magic and the bayou. Well written and developed characters. I really hope there will be more stories with them.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews