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Drawing Down The Moon
Cable TV personality Ricky Gold has problems. He's on the run from a bad relationship, hasn't shown up for work in a week, and his iPhone is at the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico. And now his life is about to be turned upside down...It starts when he meets Kada--as in Cicada-- in the middle of West Texas, and finds himself intrigued by her name, her tattoo, and the way an angry redneck chases her out of a bar. When someone close to Kada turns up dead their flight begins, first from an assassin...then two...then from every law enforcement officer in a five-state area.Thoroughly unequipped for a life on the run, they must depend on each other while struggling against their own mutual attraction - a factor that could prove fatal. Drawing Down the Moon is equal parts Hitchcockian thriller and romantic comedy, filled with memorable characters. It's a witty screwball noir thriller that follows Ricky and Kada as they fight to survive - and hope to find some really great Chinese food.
514 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 17, 2015
17 people are currently reading
255 people want to read
About the author
Joe Clifford Faust
39 books32 followersJoe Clifford Faust is an American author best known for his seven science fiction novels primarily written during the 1980s and 1990s, including A Death of Honor, The Company Man, the Angel's Luck Trilogy (all published by Del Rey Books), and the satirical Pembroke Hall novels (published by Bantam Spectra). His novels are known for their tightly controlled plots and their sense of humor. Like many authors, he draws inspiration from previous and current occupations, including projectionist, record store clerk, radio announcer, sheriff's dispatcher, and advertising copywriter. He currently works in advertising, but keeps his hand in writing and through other creative projects such as occasional forays into cartooning and songwriting.
On February 16, 2011, Faust announced on his blog that he had created a publishing company called Thief Media as an organ to distribute his out-of-print novels in ebook formats. Releases are scheduled to begin in March 2011 with "A Death of Honor" and will include two previously unpublished novels, "The Mushroom Shift" and "Trust."
On February 16, 2011, Faust announced on his blog that he had created a publishing company called Thief Media as an organ to distribute his out-of-print novels in ebook formats. Releases are scheduled to begin in March 2011 with "A Death of Honor" and will include two previously unpublished novels, "The Mushroom Shift" and "Trust."
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
September 14, 2015
Summary: Written so well, that I forgot sometimes that it is fiction.
I enjoy YA dystopian more fantasy than scifi scifi/fantasy. That is my genre.
This book is not that genre. It is contemporary adult (meaning not young adult) science fiction.
The literary components are more mature: there are some , but this is in no means an "adult" book, like erotica.
As for the writing, at the beginning of the book, there is a scene with someone is traveling on the old backroads in the Texas Panhandle. The writing was so descript and accurate that I (having grown up in that area) could actually remember traveling down those roads. I was so intensely involved that when it came to one part. I actually stopped and yelled at the book that it was wrong! I was so caught up and then fantasy kicked in. For the purpose of what he was trying to achieve, it was the right exit, but on the wrong end of town and the wrong store.
I'm still amazed that he wrote it so well that I forgot that I reading fiction.
Now for the science-fiction, he writes it in such a way that you again forget that it is technically science-fiction. That is something that I really enjoyed about the first book I read of his: Death of Honor. Science-fiction written so well that I forget that it is fiction.
Disclaimer: I personally know the author and I received the book through KindleScout; however, this is not my typically book. I probably would not have picked it up if I did not know the author.
I enjoy YA dystopian more fantasy than scifi scifi/fantasy. That is my genre.
This book is not that genre. It is contemporary adult (meaning not young adult) science fiction.
The literary components are more mature: there are some , but this is in no means an "adult" book, like erotica.
As for the writing, at the beginning of the book, there is a scene with someone is traveling on the old backroads in the Texas Panhandle. The writing was so descript and accurate that I (having grown up in that area) could actually remember traveling down those roads. I was so intensely involved that when it came to one part. I actually stopped and yelled at the book that it was wrong! I was so caught up and then fantasy kicked in. For the purpose of what he was trying to achieve, it was the right exit, but on the wrong end of town and the wrong store.
I'm still amazed that he wrote it so well that I forgot that I reading fiction.
Now for the science-fiction, he writes it in such a way that you again forget that it is technically science-fiction. That is something that I really enjoyed about the first book I read of his: Death of Honor. Science-fiction written so well that I forget that it is fiction.
Disclaimer: I personally know the author and I received the book through KindleScout; however, this is not my typically book. I probably would not have picked it up if I did not know the author.
April 4, 2015
Imagine, if you will, a modern novel come yin yang symbol -- a study in contrasts.
The pace of this murder mystery plot line forces the reader’s eye across the page, but the beautifully painted descriptions and the wry humour beg to be read slowly and savoured.
The feminine and masculine energies are represented in Kada, an eclectic witch from Texas, and her knight in shining armour, Richard, the doughy lapsed-Baptist weatherman from up north. They trace a journey of self-discovery and transformation through a multi-state mandala, aiming for survival.
Faith confronts pragmatism.
Entrenchment requires yielding.
Public face conflicts with privacy.
Material challenges ethereal.
Good tries to displace evil.
Then add the self-serving but altruistic Vic and Ray -- just regular folk from Indianapolis, Indiana and swirl.
The genius of this book is that it offers the reader what the reader wants. It can be enjoyed as a fun diversion and put aside; or, it could engender wonderful conversations and reflection. A great book for book groups and reading buddies. Make sure to have that conversation over really good Chinese food – you know the kind with the plum sauce so thick with real fruit it has to be spread on to the eggroll with a knife – none of that orange syrupy stuff.
The pace of this murder mystery plot line forces the reader’s eye across the page, but the beautifully painted descriptions and the wry humour beg to be read slowly and savoured.
The feminine and masculine energies are represented in Kada, an eclectic witch from Texas, and her knight in shining armour, Richard, the doughy lapsed-Baptist weatherman from up north. They trace a journey of self-discovery and transformation through a multi-state mandala, aiming for survival.
Faith confronts pragmatism.
Entrenchment requires yielding.
Public face conflicts with privacy.
Material challenges ethereal.
Good tries to displace evil.
Then add the self-serving but altruistic Vic and Ray -- just regular folk from Indianapolis, Indiana and swirl.
The genius of this book is that it offers the reader what the reader wants. It can be enjoyed as a fun diversion and put aside; or, it could engender wonderful conversations and reflection. A great book for book groups and reading buddies. Make sure to have that conversation over really good Chinese food – you know the kind with the plum sauce so thick with real fruit it has to be spread on to the eggroll with a knife – none of that orange syrupy stuff.
December 21, 2015
Joe Clifford Faust's thriller of the road is freewheeling, wildly implausible, and mostly unpredictable, although I was confident at the end that the driver of the old Cadillac was going to be Kada.
I was happy about that, so it worked. This isn't much of a spoiler. There's plenty that's unexpected.
A cable-TV weatherman is fleeing a bad relationship. He winds up wanted for murder and almost innumerable other offensives, while fleeing for his life with a tattooed Wiccan mystic he encounters while trying in vain to pump some gas.
The major characters are all looking for excitement, and all of them find it in excess.
And, yes, they've got enough sense to figure out that things are not as they seem.
Among the lessons: (1.) Avoid mysterious goo; (2.) Only quality Chinese food is worth eating; (3.) The real bad guys are invariably filthy rich; (4.) Never underestimate a Wiccan scorned.
By the way, it isn't supernatural. Kada, the heroine, gives Wiccans a good name when all is read and done.
I love the vibe of Faust's thriller. It doesn't take itself too seriously. His is a style I have tried myself.
I was happy about that, so it worked. This isn't much of a spoiler. There's plenty that's unexpected.
A cable-TV weatherman is fleeing a bad relationship. He winds up wanted for murder and almost innumerable other offensives, while fleeing for his life with a tattooed Wiccan mystic he encounters while trying in vain to pump some gas.
The major characters are all looking for excitement, and all of them find it in excess.
And, yes, they've got enough sense to figure out that things are not as they seem.
Among the lessons: (1.) Avoid mysterious goo; (2.) Only quality Chinese food is worth eating; (3.) The real bad guys are invariably filthy rich; (4.) Never underestimate a Wiccan scorned.
By the way, it isn't supernatural. Kada, the heroine, gives Wiccans a good name when all is read and done.
I love the vibe of Faust's thriller. It doesn't take itself too seriously. His is a style I have tried myself.
April 19, 2015
Finding a lot more than just yourself...
I give this book only my 4 stars because, many will find it for be a little predictable. I think however, that it was a great book. I knew what was going to happen at times but, not how and that more than held my interest. The why's of what happened kept you reading as the author kept it just beyond understanding until the end. I read it in 2 days and really enjoyed it. This author has earned my following and I will look for more of his writing. Anyone who enjoys a mixture of mystery, religion, murder, philosophy, and very light romance, oh, and some comedy would enjoy this book.
I give this book only my 4 stars because, many will find it for be a little predictable. I think however, that it was a great book. I knew what was going to happen at times but, not how and that more than held my interest. The why's of what happened kept you reading as the author kept it just beyond understanding until the end. I read it in 2 days and really enjoyed it. This author has earned my following and I will look for more of his writing. Anyone who enjoys a mixture of mystery, religion, murder, philosophy, and very light romance, oh, and some comedy would enjoy this book.
April 20, 2015
This book can be read in depth for a study in philosophy, religion and relationships but it's also just a fun read If that's more your style. I found myself laughing out loud throughout this book and sharing passages with my husband. There were a few editing things that could be improved but the story itself was great and I definitely recommend it.
July 19, 2019
A good novel. I went to college with Joe, although it would not be accurate to say I knew him. He was a good friend of a good friend. What I remember most about Joe was that he was smarter and more clever than the rest of us. It shows in this book. “Drawing Down…” is a “Kindle Scout” book, meaning it was part of the (I believe) now-defunct Kindle program that used crowd-sourcing to determine what books emerged. I guess that means enough people liked Joe’s book for it to get published. I thought it was the most tightly written novel I’ve read in a long time. It begins with a murder in rural Claude, Texas, progresses to a shoot-out with cops at a grocery store in Amarillo, then a donut store in Tucumcari. (I’m not sure why he focused on my old haunting grounds, as to my knowledge Joe has no connection to that part of the country.) Regardless, the story is of a couple of fugitives trying to figure out why someone is trying to kill them and in so doing repeatedly end up being the cops’ primary suspect for other crimes. As I said, it is very tightly written. My only negative comment is that it is long, 512 pages. In my opinion 100 pages of dialogue between the two fugitives could be edited out in the first half of the book. I would not change a word of the last third of the book. The last third of the book is as well written as any book you will find. Very clever. Keeps you guessing as to how it will all turn out, who did it, and why. And no, I did not figure it out in advance.
April 3, 2026
This story pulled me in pretty quickly, especially with how unusual the first meeting between Ricky and Kada was. The detail about her name, the tattoo, and the chaotic bar scene made it feel vivid right from the start. It didn’t take long before things escalated, and the constant sense of being chased kept the tension going throughout.
What I appreciated most was the dynamic between Ricky and Kada. Their relationship develops under pressure, and while it’s not overly dramatic, you can see how they slowly start to rely on each other. It felt more natural than forced, which made their connection believable.
The pacing is fast, sometimes almost relentless, with one threat after another. At moments, it felt a bit overwhelming, but it also matches the kind of story it’s trying to tell—people constantly on the run with little time to breathe. I also liked the small touches of humor, like the mentions of food, which helped balance the intensity.
Overall, it’s an engaging mix of action and romance with enough personality to keep it interesting. If you enjoy fast-moving stories with a bit of heart behind the chaos, this is worth checking out.
What I appreciated most was the dynamic between Ricky and Kada. Their relationship develops under pressure, and while it’s not overly dramatic, you can see how they slowly start to rely on each other. It felt more natural than forced, which made their connection believable.
The pacing is fast, sometimes almost relentless, with one threat after another. At moments, it felt a bit overwhelming, but it also matches the kind of story it’s trying to tell—people constantly on the run with little time to breathe. I also liked the small touches of humor, like the mentions of food, which helped balance the intensity.
Overall, it’s an engaging mix of action and romance with enough personality to keep it interesting. If you enjoy fast-moving stories with a bit of heart behind the chaos, this is worth checking out.
October 18, 2025
Drawing Down the Moon is a wild, fast-paced ride that mixes danger, humor, and unexpected romance in all the right ways. Ricky and Kada make such an unforgettable duo their chemistry feels real, their banter sharp, and their road trip through West Texas is filled with twists, tension, and just enough heart to balance the chaos.
Joe Clifford Faust writes with wit and energy, pulling you straight into the story and keeping you there until the last page. Between the assassins, the chase scenes, and the surprisingly sweet moments, this book is pure entertainment from start to finish.
If you love road thrillers with a touch of romance and smart humor, Drawing Down the Moon is an absolute gem.
Joe Clifford Faust writes with wit and energy, pulling you straight into the story and keeping you there until the last page. Between the assassins, the chase scenes, and the surprisingly sweet moments, this book is pure entertainment from start to finish.
If you love road thrillers with a touch of romance and smart humor, Drawing Down the Moon is an absolute gem.
February 8, 2018
The cover made me initially think this was some sort of mystical book. In a way, it is, although the main story is about Ricky and Kada as they make their way across the U.S. to find answers to why Kada's boyfriend was murdered. However, much of their conversations revolve around relationship and various concepts of religion. Even though some of them felt a little drawn out, I enjoyed reading the story and the emotions behind it. It gives the reader plenty to think about.
April 10, 2015
When Ricky crosses paths with Kada in Joe Clifford Faust’s "Drawing Down The Moon", what ensues is a deliciously engrossing story that is part romantic comedy; part hybrid thriller. Faust’s engaging characters will draw you in, and the plotline will hook you. Ricky and Kada are a study in contrasts, but they come together in the most intriguing of scenarios. You’ll keep turning the pages needing to know the answer to what is perhaps the most compelling question to arise from the story…could either of them ever be the same again?
December 3, 2015
Ready for a road trip with a witch and a weatherman?
Drawing Down the Moon depicts the journey of a Walter Mitty type cable news anchor down on luck and love. Drowning his sorrows in a honkey tonk in west Texas, he meets an alluring Wiccan practitioner named Kada. Their meeting sparks a series of events including bar fights, murder, car chases and hit men. Richard Gold has stumbled on a criminal conspiracy and a mysterious woman that will change his previously unremarkable life forever.
Drawing Down the Moon depicts the journey of a Walter Mitty type cable news anchor down on luck and love. Drowning his sorrows in a honkey tonk in west Texas, he meets an alluring Wiccan practitioner named Kada. Their meeting sparks a series of events including bar fights, murder, car chases and hit men. Richard Gold has stumbled on a criminal conspiracy and a mysterious woman that will change his previously unremarkable life forever.
March 17, 2015
I get this from Kindle Scout. Actually the story is not bad. But, it's not great either. Just an ordinary story, with ordinary plot, ordinary conflict, and ordinary ending. To be honest, I am waiting for something big to happen, but it never happen. It was unpredictable and yet predictable. the story is a mixture of thriller and romance with the emphasis on romance. So, maybe I just read the great book but not my genre. My judgement could be bias.
June 24, 2016
Ricky Gold is quite a character! It took me a while to warm up to him, but in the end I really liked him. Kada cried too much for me to really relate to her. I enjoyed all the plot twists but it was Ricky that sold me on the book. Good job, Faust!!
November 20, 2015
A good read. Took me a while to like the characters, but in the end I believed in them and rooted for them.
August 2, 2016
.
Loved it, thought about it all day til I could get home and finish it. Looking for other stuff by him.
Loved it, thought about it all day til I could get home and finish it. Looking for other stuff by him.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews