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Martha Covington #1
The Girl in the Maze
Perfect for fans of Gillian Flynn, Paula Hawkins, and Tana French, R. K. Jackson's lyrical, twisty psychological thriller debut follows an aspiring journalist as she uncovers dark truths in a seaswept Southern town—aided by a mysterious outcast and pursued by a ruthless killer.
When Martha Covington moves to Amberleen, Georgia, after her release from a psychiatric ward, she thinks her breakdown is behind her. A small town with a rich history, Amberleen feels like a fresh start. Taking a summer internship with the local historical society, Martha is tasked with gathering the stories of the Geechee residents of nearby Shell Heap Island, the descendants of slaves who have lived by their own traditions for the last three hundred years.
As Martha delves into her work, the voices she thought she left behind start whispering again, and she begins to doubt her recovery. When a grisly murder occurs, Martha finds herself at the center of a perfect storm—and she's the perfect suspect. Without a soul to vouch for her innocence or her sanity, Martha disappears into the wilderness, battling the pull of madness and struggling to piece together a supernatural puzzle of age-old resentments, broken promises, and cold-blooded murder. She finds an unexpected ally in a handsome young man fighting his own battles. With his help, Martha journeys through a terrifying labyrinth—to find the truth and clear her name, if she can survive to tell the tale.
When Martha Covington moves to Amberleen, Georgia, after her release from a psychiatric ward, she thinks her breakdown is behind her. A small town with a rich history, Amberleen feels like a fresh start. Taking a summer internship with the local historical society, Martha is tasked with gathering the stories of the Geechee residents of nearby Shell Heap Island, the descendants of slaves who have lived by their own traditions for the last three hundred years.
As Martha delves into her work, the voices she thought she left behind start whispering again, and she begins to doubt her recovery. When a grisly murder occurs, Martha finds herself at the center of a perfect storm—and she's the perfect suspect. Without a soul to vouch for her innocence or her sanity, Martha disappears into the wilderness, battling the pull of madness and struggling to piece together a supernatural puzzle of age-old resentments, broken promises, and cold-blooded murder. She finds an unexpected ally in a handsome young man fighting his own battles. With his help, Martha journeys through a terrifying labyrinth—to find the truth and clear her name, if she can survive to tell the tale.
261 pages, ebook
First published September 8, 2015
192 people are currently reading
898 people want to read
About the author
R.K. Jackson
3 books55 followersR.K. Jackson is an award-winning science writer and editor at NASA, and previously worked as a senior editor at CNN, where he helped launch the network's Internet presence. He has attended the Advanced Novel Writing Workshop at UCLA as well as the Squaw Valley Community of Writers Workshop.
Jackson’s USA Today-bestselling thriller THE GIRL IN THE MAZE has been praised as “A twisty Southern gothic thriller with echoes of Tana French” (L.A. Times bestselling author Dianne Emley), “A terrific mystery” (The Book Lover’s Friend), and “A fast-paced psychological thriller that keeps you engaged from beginning to end” (Reading Femme).
Two of his plays have been staged professionally, and his short story, "All the Devils," was featured in the Alfred Hitchcock-themed issue of Penumbra Magazine. He recently co-produced the "Eyes on the Earth" and "Eyes on Exoplanets" exhibits at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C.
A Georgia native with roots in the state's coastal low country, he now lives with his family in California's Los Padres National Forest. His second Martha Covington thriller, KISS OF THE SUN, will be released Sept. 20, 2016, from Random House Alibi.
Jackson’s USA Today-bestselling thriller THE GIRL IN THE MAZE has been praised as “A twisty Southern gothic thriller with echoes of Tana French” (L.A. Times bestselling author Dianne Emley), “A terrific mystery” (The Book Lover’s Friend), and “A fast-paced psychological thriller that keeps you engaged from beginning to end” (Reading Femme).
Two of his plays have been staged professionally, and his short story, "All the Devils," was featured in the Alfred Hitchcock-themed issue of Penumbra Magazine. He recently co-produced the "Eyes on the Earth" and "Eyes on Exoplanets" exhibits at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C.
A Georgia native with roots in the state's coastal low country, he now lives with his family in California's Los Padres National Forest. His second Martha Covington thriller, KISS OF THE SUN, will be released Sept. 20, 2016, from Random House Alibi.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
October 17, 2015
1.5 stars
Martha is released from a mental hospital after being hospitalized for a break down after hearing voices in her head. She goes to the coastal Georgia town of Amberleen, where she takes on a internship with a local historical society as part of her recovery process.
There is a corporation that is wanting to build up the area for tourists and do away with some of the local culture. Shell Heap island is the home of the local GeeChee residents (descendants of slaves who still live most of their lives by their rich culture)
Now this part of the book I ADORED. I love the GeeChee culture and will read just about anything I can find featuring them. I live in Georgia so I'm especially interested in anything folkish in our state.
But then I had to consider the actual book. The first half of it was not really too bad but then the mystery/thriller part of it just was not good. For me it was very spotty and I could have cared less about that part. You just knew from the beginning of the book how it was going to all play out because it's been done so many times and actually done much better than this.
The the paranormal aspect of it? No.
It just did not work, and it should have. The GeeChee wise woman part did but then Martha's part? Just pure flop.
I should have known I would not like this one after I saw it being compared to "Perfect for fans of Gillian Flynn, Paula Hawkins"
*gags*
That alone should have warned my arse to run.
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for review.
Now a bunch of five star reviews exist for this book and I would highlight one if one of my friends or people I know had reviewed it but since that hasn't happened I'm spotlighting my friend Tash's review. She has a most excellent thought out review for this book. I just wanted to yell that it sucked and throw it against the wall.
Martha is released from a mental hospital after being hospitalized for a break down after hearing voices in her head. She goes to the coastal Georgia town of Amberleen, where she takes on a internship with a local historical society as part of her recovery process.
There is a corporation that is wanting to build up the area for tourists and do away with some of the local culture. Shell Heap island is the home of the local GeeChee residents (descendants of slaves who still live most of their lives by their rich culture)
Now this part of the book I ADORED. I love the GeeChee culture and will read just about anything I can find featuring them. I live in Georgia so I'm especially interested in anything folkish in our state.
But then I had to consider the actual book. The first half of it was not really too bad but then the mystery/thriller part of it just was not good. For me it was very spotty and I could have cared less about that part. You just knew from the beginning of the book how it was going to all play out because it's been done so many times and actually done much better than this.
The the paranormal aspect of it? No.
It just did not work, and it should have. The GeeChee wise woman part did but then Martha's part? Just pure flop.
I should have known I would not like this one after I saw it being compared to "Perfect for fans of Gillian Flynn, Paula Hawkins"
*gags*
That alone should have warned my arse to run.
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for review.
Now a bunch of five star reviews exist for this book and I would highlight one if one of my friends or people I know had reviewed it but since that hasn't happened I'm spotlighting my friend Tash's review. She has a most excellent thought out review for this book. I just wanted to yell that it sucked and throw it against the wall.
September 8, 2018
The concept and blurb had me hooked.
But I struggled. I found it difficult to connect. I think I was expecting far more than what I got from this. I had to high hopes maybe.
Mental health is something close to me because my husband has Bi Polar and so “voices in his head” although kindly ones making him feel calm was something I’ve lived with him experiencing for over 30 years.
This was a fine story.
As long as she took her tablets she’d be fine.
Not necessarily true though.
Someone struggling in a world that she needs to fit into.
I’m not entirely sure that’s a good concept.
The writing flowed fine I guess maybe I looked into the reality too closely and this is a novel. But getting things correct needs to be believed.
August 4, 2015
After being diagnosed and institutionalized for Schizophrenia, Martha Covington is ready to go back to the normal world through meaningful employment and anti-psychotics. She's hired as an intern for the Amberleen Historical Society for the summer. Amberleen Historical Society’s current project is the preservation of Shell Heap, an island in the Georgia Golden Isles, home of the Gullah/Geechee people, from greedy property developers. The impoverished town of Amberleen is all pro development and the AHS is the only thing standing in the way. When a shocking murder happens in this small Georgia town, Martha’s illness makes her the perfect suspect and, subsequently, a fugitive forced to survive the deep south swamps.
My favorite part of the book is the setting. I Googled the Georgia Golden Isles and Shell Heap, and was completely fascinated by the beauty and isolation of the islands. Because of the isolation of Shell Heap, the Geechee people preserved much of their African cultural customs and beliefs. Beliefs and practices which sound much like voodoo.
Sounds promising doesn’t it? I thought so too. In the first 50% of the book, I kept nodding and murmuring “not bad for a debut novel”, but then the paranormal twist in the book happened. All of a sudden Martha started hearing voices other than Lenny’s, her customary schizophrenic delusion, and seeing apparitions. My favorite part is the ghost baby in a burlap sack (shudders). Now at this point, I was very impressed with Jackson because I can’t tell whether Martha’s experiences stem from her mental illness or the paranormal. It was all good until the end when the book had to choose its identity - to be either a paranormal or psychological thriller. It decided to be both! Now this is my primary vexation, it just can't be both without one being a contrived plot device. Plus, the resolution to the murder mystery was quite unsatisfying. Would authorities really believe the testimony of someone diagnosed with Schizophrenia, who’d been off her medication for a few days and had gone through traumatic events?
Jackson is a decent writer but his prose tends to run purple, IMO, which had me backtracking at times. I really had difficulty understanding this passage in particular - The shape resolved into the form of a sideways figure eight, then separated into two disks. It was getting closer, moving faster than the Passat…. I had to read the following sentences to finally figure out that he’s talking about headlights.
I had to take a nap to sort what I think about this novel, because it felt like there were too many questions left unanswered. Mayhaps, Jackson will answer them in the next Martha Covington books, but as for this installment alone – 2.5 stars.
***A gifted copy was provided by NETGALLEY for an honest review***
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Knee jerk reaction:
So goddamn conflicted, I either missed the whole fucking point or this is just one big clusterfuck of a book! So much rage, I need a nap.
My favorite part of the book is the setting. I Googled the Georgia Golden Isles and Shell Heap, and was completely fascinated by the beauty and isolation of the islands. Because of the isolation of Shell Heap, the Geechee people preserved much of their African cultural customs and beliefs. Beliefs and practices which sound much like voodoo.
Sounds promising doesn’t it? I thought so too. In the first 50% of the book, I kept nodding and murmuring “not bad for a debut novel”, but then the paranormal twist in the book happened. All of a sudden Martha started hearing voices other than Lenny’s, her customary schizophrenic delusion, and seeing apparitions. My favorite part is the ghost baby in a burlap sack (shudders). Now at this point, I was very impressed with Jackson because I can’t tell whether Martha’s experiences stem from her mental illness or the paranormal. It was all good until the end when the book had to choose its identity - to be either a paranormal or psychological thriller. It decided to be both! Now this is my primary vexation, it just can't be both without one being a contrived plot device. Plus, the resolution to the murder mystery was quite unsatisfying. Would authorities really believe the testimony of someone diagnosed with Schizophrenia, who’d been off her medication for a few days and had gone through traumatic events?
Jackson is a decent writer but his prose tends to run purple, IMO, which had me backtracking at times. I really had difficulty understanding this passage in particular - The shape resolved into the form of a sideways figure eight, then separated into two disks. It was getting closer, moving faster than the Passat…. I had to read the following sentences to finally figure out that he’s talking about headlights.
I had to take a nap to sort what I think about this novel, because it felt like there were too many questions left unanswered. Mayhaps, Jackson will answer them in the next Martha Covington books, but as for this installment alone – 2.5 stars.
***A gifted copy was provided by NETGALLEY for an honest review***
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Knee jerk reaction:
So goddamn conflicted, I either missed the whole fucking point or this is just one big clusterfuck of a book! So much rage, I need a nap.
September 8, 2015
Engrossing and atmospheric! This debut novel has so much to enjoy—not only the sensitively wrought characters, the intricate plot, and the naturalistic dialogue, but also the evocative portrait of its setting. The Georgia coast, so memorably depicted in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, is offered from another viewpoint, conjured here with particular skill and artistry. A thread of the paranormal woven through the plot seems quite at home in this tale, given the mysterious ambiance of its locale.
I was given an advance copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review, but I am frankly eager to read it again and recommend it to those whom I believe will enjoy it. Some of the more literal-mided might take issue with the story's few fanciful elements, but most others should find this spooky thriller to be a charming and absorbing read.
I was given an advance copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review, but I am frankly eager to read it again and recommend it to those whom I believe will enjoy it. Some of the more literal-mided might take issue with the story's few fanciful elements, but most others should find this spooky thriller to be a charming and absorbing read.
March 26, 2017
Check out all of my reviews at: http://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
The Girl in the Maze is the debut book by R.K. Jackson featuring Martha Covington. This book was an enjoyable mix of thriller and mystery with a little psychic/seer thrown in on a Georgia coast island.
The island and its inhabitants are descendants of plantation slaves who are self-sustaining and still follow their old religion and belief system. Martha is out of inhouse treatment for schizophrenia suffered during college and is working an internship for the historical society to interview and write a book on the GeeChee people of Shell Heap Island as a test to see if she can maintain a normal life and return to college for journalism.
There is a battle between the town council and the GeeChee for control of development on their island which leads to dirty money, corruption and murder. Martha is caught in the middle and doesn’t know if her disease is taking over again or if voices and visions she begins to hear and see are due to being more, like Lady Albertha, an old seer in the GeeChee community.
Martha is a wonderful character. She is brilliant, driven, and at the same time doubts herself due to her illness. The plot flows with many rich characters and twists. The writing is very descriptive and you feel immersed in the small Georgia town, the island and traveling in the marshes. I am hoping for more stories with Martha from this author.
Thank you to Random House Publishing Group-Alibi and Net Galley for providing me with an uncorrected proof of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
The Girl in the Maze is the debut book by R.K. Jackson featuring Martha Covington. This book was an enjoyable mix of thriller and mystery with a little psychic/seer thrown in on a Georgia coast island.
The island and its inhabitants are descendants of plantation slaves who are self-sustaining and still follow their old religion and belief system. Martha is out of inhouse treatment for schizophrenia suffered during college and is working an internship for the historical society to interview and write a book on the GeeChee people of Shell Heap Island as a test to see if she can maintain a normal life and return to college for journalism.
There is a battle between the town council and the GeeChee for control of development on their island which leads to dirty money, corruption and murder. Martha is caught in the middle and doesn’t know if her disease is taking over again or if voices and visions she begins to hear and see are due to being more, like Lady Albertha, an old seer in the GeeChee community.
Martha is a wonderful character. She is brilliant, driven, and at the same time doubts herself due to her illness. The plot flows with many rich characters and twists. The writing is very descriptive and you feel immersed in the small Georgia town, the island and traveling in the marshes. I am hoping for more stories with Martha from this author.
Thank you to Random House Publishing Group-Alibi and Net Galley for providing me with an uncorrected proof of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
October 17, 2015
2.5 Good concept but the plot was slow to develop. Also felt it needed some cohesiveness. Quick read but for me it was just okay.
ARC from Netgalley.
ARC from Netgalley.
September 10, 2015
Review copy
R. K. Jackson is a former CNN Journalist who now works at Pasadena, California's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. He lives with his family in the Los Padres National Forest and is at work on a second Martha Covington novel, The Kiss of the Sun.
The Girl In the Maze is a genre-crushing story that's part mystery, part thriller, with elements of horror. The result is is a terribly entertaining novel about Martha Covington, a schizophrenic, who with treatment, is making her way back into the workplace.
Martha has taken an internship with the Historical Society of Amberleen, Georgia. The work is to put together interviews, with the residents of Shell Heap Island, into a cohesive form to publish a book about the Geeches who are native to the island and direct descendants of slaves who were freed after the Civil War. They've lived in isolation, maintaining a truly distinct culture and belief system. Still believing in magic, ghosts, those kinds of things.
There is an eerie vibe to the story and there are times when the reader is left wondering how much of Martha's voices are due to her medical condition and how much of it might be something else.
One of the things I liked most about the author's writing was his way with words. Early on there's a conversation where a character's husband was trying to make ice cream and he says, "Can't find the rock salt nowheres." and his wife comments, "That'd be my husband, Horace. That man could lose a white rabbit in a coal chute." Stuff like that just makes me smile. Another example, "But once Mistah Clyde made up his mind about somethin', trying to talk him in the other direction was like tryin' to teach a mule to dance."
Although The Girl In the Maze is not full-on horror, it is one of the best books I've read in 2015. When we learn the real story of Amberleen, it all comes together in a very satisfying way.
Published by Alibi, a division of Random House, LLC, The Girl In the Maze is currently available only in e-book format.
100% recommended.
R. K. Jackson is a former CNN Journalist who now works at Pasadena, California's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. He lives with his family in the Los Padres National Forest and is at work on a second Martha Covington novel, The Kiss of the Sun.
The Girl In the Maze is a genre-crushing story that's part mystery, part thriller, with elements of horror. The result is is a terribly entertaining novel about Martha Covington, a schizophrenic, who with treatment, is making her way back into the workplace.
Martha has taken an internship with the Historical Society of Amberleen, Georgia. The work is to put together interviews, with the residents of Shell Heap Island, into a cohesive form to publish a book about the Geeches who are native to the island and direct descendants of slaves who were freed after the Civil War. They've lived in isolation, maintaining a truly distinct culture and belief system. Still believing in magic, ghosts, those kinds of things.
There is an eerie vibe to the story and there are times when the reader is left wondering how much of Martha's voices are due to her medical condition and how much of it might be something else.
One of the things I liked most about the author's writing was his way with words. Early on there's a conversation where a character's husband was trying to make ice cream and he says, "Can't find the rock salt nowheres." and his wife comments, "That'd be my husband, Horace. That man could lose a white rabbit in a coal chute." Stuff like that just makes me smile. Another example, "But once Mistah Clyde made up his mind about somethin', trying to talk him in the other direction was like tryin' to teach a mule to dance."
Although The Girl In the Maze is not full-on horror, it is one of the best books I've read in 2015. When we learn the real story of Amberleen, it all comes together in a very satisfying way.
Published by Alibi, a division of Random House, LLC, The Girl In the Maze is currently available only in e-book format.
100% recommended.
August 3, 2016
Drawn by its hauntingly beautiful prose, intriguing plotline, and compelling characters, I finished reading The Girl in Maze in one afternoon. The story was moving along at a great pace. It kept me at the edge of my seat but also allowed me some precious moments to remember to breathe.
It was so easy to root for Martha’s character. She was vulnerable and strong at once. She had a sweet, innocent charm, yet she could be calculating and methodical as she struggled to find her way in the labyrinth. I found Martha herself more of a puzzle than the storm and the murder. R.K. Jackson’s storytelling is effortless. I lost myself in Martha’s world and the Southern town that was both realistic and surreal at the same time
As the story pushed further along with Martha, the line between sane, insanity, and giftedness often blurred.
The Girl in the Maze is beautifully written psychological thriller with a touch of the supernatural. I was hoping the sequel was out already!
It was so easy to root for Martha’s character. She was vulnerable and strong at once. She had a sweet, innocent charm, yet she could be calculating and methodical as she struggled to find her way in the labyrinth. I found Martha herself more of a puzzle than the storm and the murder. R.K. Jackson’s storytelling is effortless. I lost myself in Martha’s world and the Southern town that was both realistic and surreal at the same time
As the story pushed further along with Martha, the line between sane, insanity, and giftedness often blurred.
The Girl in the Maze is beautifully written psychological thriller with a touch of the supernatural. I was hoping the sequel was out already!
July 10, 2015
The character Martha is suffering more than a nervous breakdown and for once it's nice to see a character with a menal disorder that doesn't just disappear or get cured. Similar to the past, when such people were seen as an oracle, or soothsayer it's an interesting story that the Gechee people see her illness more as a gift. While there are supersitious believers in the present, it wasn't so long ago that they were seen as gifted in the past by a majority of people. Martha might indeed have a gift alongside her illness. All of this aside, in the swamps she is caught up in a mess and finds herself accused of killing the very woman she has come to work with. Humming quietly is a secret history that Martha must hear and understand that changes what the town believes it is built from. I adored the character Lady Albertha, with her knowing and special Gechee ways. "There's abig trouble coming. It'll come mos' soft, so you can't hear it or see it. Like the Devil on a butterfly's wing." How interesting a novel about her would be! One can hope.
Jarrell is an interesting fellow and the relatioship that forms between he and Martha is perfect. The history of the Gechee is heartbreaking, and sadly not shocking knowing our past. The lust for money and power is a monster, and the evil being committed as a means to an end in this novel is a recipe for a heck of a ride. Will the 'crazy' outsider be the perfect pawn for the evil doings of men? Or will Martha, with the help of the people whose history she is there to tell, make it out alive and save them from their demise?
Really good southern gothic! But I stil wanted more Lady Albertha.
Jarrell is an interesting fellow and the relatioship that forms between he and Martha is perfect. The history of the Gechee is heartbreaking, and sadly not shocking knowing our past. The lust for money and power is a monster, and the evil being committed as a means to an end in this novel is a recipe for a heck of a ride. Will the 'crazy' outsider be the perfect pawn for the evil doings of men? Or will Martha, with the help of the people whose history she is there to tell, make it out alive and save them from their demise?
Really good southern gothic! But I stil wanted more Lady Albertha.
October 10, 2015
This is a new author with a debut book advertised as a psychological thriller. Seeing as how it was compared to readers who like Gillian Flynn (which I do) my expectations were rather high. I'm sorry to say I was disappointed.
Martha Covington is a young woman who has just been released from a mental institution. As long as she takes her medications, the voices in her head disappear. While Martha is a somewhat sympathetic character, I will give her kudos for trying to be strong enough to function in a normal world.
Other than Martha, most all of the other characters weren't fully put together and it was difficult to understand their relationships to each other and to the story. One young man involved seems to have no connection to Martha whatsoever.
Martha is given a job at the Historical Society of a small town and almost immediately she finds secrets that not everyone in town wants known. The mystery isn't as much suspenseful as it is a puzzle.
And Martha's voices come back to haunt her again. Is she really seeing and hearing things ..or has her mental illness reared its ugly head again?
There were things that I liked. I loved the descriptive powers of the author who brought to life this community. I think the premise of the story was good ... just not quite enough to keep me fully engaged.
I gave it 3.5 stars.
My thanks to the author / NetGalley / Random House Publishing Group - Alibi who furnished a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Martha Covington is a young woman who has just been released from a mental institution. As long as she takes her medications, the voices in her head disappear. While Martha is a somewhat sympathetic character, I will give her kudos for trying to be strong enough to function in a normal world.
Other than Martha, most all of the other characters weren't fully put together and it was difficult to understand their relationships to each other and to the story. One young man involved seems to have no connection to Martha whatsoever.
Martha is given a job at the Historical Society of a small town and almost immediately she finds secrets that not everyone in town wants known. The mystery isn't as much suspenseful as it is a puzzle.
And Martha's voices come back to haunt her again. Is she really seeing and hearing things ..or has her mental illness reared its ugly head again?
There were things that I liked. I loved the descriptive powers of the author who brought to life this community. I think the premise of the story was good ... just not quite enough to keep me fully engaged.
I gave it 3.5 stars.
My thanks to the author / NetGalley / Random House Publishing Group - Alibi who furnished a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
June 27, 2015
The Girl in the Maze by R. K. Jackson is filled with intriguing characters and drips with Southern atmosphere.
The story centers on Martha, who, after suffering a nervous breakdown while in college, has come to the town of Amberleen to take a job with the local historical society. When Martha’s employer is murdered, suspicion for the death falls on her—the crazy girl from out of town.
Even while mourning the beloved head of the historical society, the town is torn over development for Shell Heap Island or leaving well enough alone for the Geechee people who live there. Money hangs in the balance, and reputations, and lives.
The Girl in the Maze was a great read that kept me turning the pages as fast as possible on the one hand, and progressing slowly to savor the author’s use of language on the other. I very much look forward to Jackson’s next book.
The story centers on Martha, who, after suffering a nervous breakdown while in college, has come to the town of Amberleen to take a job with the local historical society. When Martha’s employer is murdered, suspicion for the death falls on her—the crazy girl from out of town.
Even while mourning the beloved head of the historical society, the town is torn over development for Shell Heap Island or leaving well enough alone for the Geechee people who live there. Money hangs in the balance, and reputations, and lives.
The Girl in the Maze was a great read that kept me turning the pages as fast as possible on the one hand, and progressing slowly to savor the author’s use of language on the other. I very much look forward to Jackson’s next book.
July 29, 2015
A young woman recovering from a psychotic break, a small Georgia town torn in two over the proposed development of a pristine coastal island, the murder of the town's leading citizen, a shady sheriff, and a medicine woman who knows deep secrets. Put them all together and you have Randal Jackson's literary thriller, The Grass Maze [now The Girl in the Maze]. I have been privileged to work with Randal Jackson [now R.K. Jackson] on honing this work, and I think the result is stunning.
September 8, 2015
A special thank you to Random House and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
R. K. Jackson's enthralling debut, THE GIRL IN THE MAZE, a psycho-thriller of dark secrets in the small historic Georgian coastal town—with a mix of southern Gothic, evil, paranormal, intrigue, history, culture, and suspense.
Martha has been diagnosed and institutionalized for schizophrenia. She hears voices—she is damaged goods. However, she wants to move on and try and get back to some sense of normal. Is she ready to join society?
The Historical Society of Amberleen, Georgia, population of 17,000, five hours from Atlanta, is seeking a full-time intern to assist with a book project. A three month assignment with a stipend. A perfect job for Martha.
Helping write a book? A journalist? She can only imagine copies of the book on a shelf in the window of a bookshop with her byline on the cover. “By Martha Covington ”seemed magical as she whispers the words to herself in the darkness, over and over.
Near Shell Heap Island, one of the last unspoiled gems of the Georgia Coast-- An island belonging to the Geechees—direct descendants of slaves who were freed after the Civil War. They are direct descendants of slaves, like the Gullah, SC. They have lived in isolation, maintaining a truly distinct culture and system of beliefs. They believe in magic and ghosts. Only seventy-five are left on Shell Heap, mainly elderly. The culture has been preserved orally and only exists in the words and memories of those elders.
The developers continued to come along to grab up pieces of the land, buying off the people, as they picked their way through the communities, like vultures until there was nothing left—wearing them down with lawyers, and fights to save their culture.
The Historical Society has received a grant from the Georgia Trust to capture that history and this is what the book is to be about. Martha is to make sense of the tapes, clean them up, transcribe, research, and help with the interviews.
Martha is delighted to be part of the history of the Geechee people, and the opportunity to help tell their story. She enjoys meeting the shy people and is getting settled into the project, when she thinks she is hearing voices again. She thought she had recovered?
When a shocking brutal murder occurs, she finds herself in the middle of a fiasco, a suspect. Of course, she is an outsider and who will help her? Lenny always whispers, run like hellfire. Martha escapes into the marshes and swamps. She fears for her life-- with her background no one will believe her. Between her own fears, panic, dreams, and madness while trying to solve the mystery of murder -- everything which seems to be a puzzle of dark secrets. Slavery? Evil? Sadness? The voices and demons continue to chant horrible things about her. Is she delusional?
In the meantime, Vince her psychotherapist, in Atlanta questions if Martha had relapsed. What hallucinations had compelled Martha—did she think she was saving someone and killed. Had she turned violent? There was nothing in her case history to suggest a potential for violent behavior. He has to get to her. Her employer was dead. The assailant was someone the old woman knew. All she needs is the news spread, “Mentally ill woman accused of murdering employer.”
Who can Martha trust? Soon she finds Jarrell, struggling with his own battles and maybe he may be able to help her out of this maze of mysterious haunting terror. It is time for the real story of Amberleen.
So weird reading, The Girl in the Maze, while at the same time reading Anne Frasier’s Pretty Dead. Each is unique; however, both ---set in the small Southern Georgia towns (Savannah), dealing with cultures, Gothic and paranormal elements, dark pasts, murder, and secrets to uncover. Jarrell’s character was also an interesting addition to the storyline, as well as the dynamic, Lady Albertha. Hope to hear more from these characters.
A well-researched, absorbing, and chilling suspense, written in beautiful literary prose, highlighting the culture and the vivid southern setting. Being a Georgian, always enjoy the familiar landmarks.
Looking forward to reading more from talented journalist, R. K Jackson. Fans of Lisa Unger and Tana French will enjoy this intriguing tale.
JDCMustReadBooks
R. K. Jackson's enthralling debut, THE GIRL IN THE MAZE, a psycho-thriller of dark secrets in the small historic Georgian coastal town—with a mix of southern Gothic, evil, paranormal, intrigue, history, culture, and suspense.
Martha has been diagnosed and institutionalized for schizophrenia. She hears voices—she is damaged goods. However, she wants to move on and try and get back to some sense of normal. Is she ready to join society?
The Historical Society of Amberleen, Georgia, population of 17,000, five hours from Atlanta, is seeking a full-time intern to assist with a book project. A three month assignment with a stipend. A perfect job for Martha.
Helping write a book? A journalist? She can only imagine copies of the book on a shelf in the window of a bookshop with her byline on the cover. “By Martha Covington ”seemed magical as she whispers the words to herself in the darkness, over and over.
Near Shell Heap Island, one of the last unspoiled gems of the Georgia Coast-- An island belonging to the Geechees—direct descendants of slaves who were freed after the Civil War. They are direct descendants of slaves, like the Gullah, SC. They have lived in isolation, maintaining a truly distinct culture and system of beliefs. They believe in magic and ghosts. Only seventy-five are left on Shell Heap, mainly elderly. The culture has been preserved orally and only exists in the words and memories of those elders.
The developers continued to come along to grab up pieces of the land, buying off the people, as they picked their way through the communities, like vultures until there was nothing left—wearing them down with lawyers, and fights to save their culture.
The Historical Society has received a grant from the Georgia Trust to capture that history and this is what the book is to be about. Martha is to make sense of the tapes, clean them up, transcribe, research, and help with the interviews.
Martha is delighted to be part of the history of the Geechee people, and the opportunity to help tell their story. She enjoys meeting the shy people and is getting settled into the project, when she thinks she is hearing voices again. She thought she had recovered?
When a shocking brutal murder occurs, she finds herself in the middle of a fiasco, a suspect. Of course, she is an outsider and who will help her? Lenny always whispers, run like hellfire. Martha escapes into the marshes and swamps. She fears for her life-- with her background no one will believe her. Between her own fears, panic, dreams, and madness while trying to solve the mystery of murder -- everything which seems to be a puzzle of dark secrets. Slavery? Evil? Sadness? The voices and demons continue to chant horrible things about her. Is she delusional?
In the meantime, Vince her psychotherapist, in Atlanta questions if Martha had relapsed. What hallucinations had compelled Martha—did she think she was saving someone and killed. Had she turned violent? There was nothing in her case history to suggest a potential for violent behavior. He has to get to her. Her employer was dead. The assailant was someone the old woman knew. All she needs is the news spread, “Mentally ill woman accused of murdering employer.”
Who can Martha trust? Soon she finds Jarrell, struggling with his own battles and maybe he may be able to help her out of this maze of mysterious haunting terror. It is time for the real story of Amberleen.
So weird reading, The Girl in the Maze, while at the same time reading Anne Frasier’s Pretty Dead. Each is unique; however, both ---set in the small Southern Georgia towns (Savannah), dealing with cultures, Gothic and paranormal elements, dark pasts, murder, and secrets to uncover. Jarrell’s character was also an interesting addition to the storyline, as well as the dynamic, Lady Albertha. Hope to hear more from these characters.
A well-researched, absorbing, and chilling suspense, written in beautiful literary prose, highlighting the culture and the vivid southern setting. Being a Georgian, always enjoy the familiar landmarks.
Looking forward to reading more from talented journalist, R. K Jackson. Fans of Lisa Unger and Tana French will enjoy this intriguing tale.
JDCMustReadBooks
July 3, 2015
eARC: Netgalley
If you've ever been to the Low Country and Savannah then you know there's an inherent sense of history and long buried secrets that you feel all around you. I just returned from the area a couple of weeks ago and The Girl in the Maze took me right back to the moss draped shadows and the spooky beauty of the area.
It's so tragic the way the Gullah/Geechee communities of the Low Country and Sea Islands have been robbed of so much of their land. Combine that with the area's atmosphere, the "haints" still in residence, the fear of mental illness that schizophrenia invokes, and some very greedy people and you're in for a great read!
This book is high suspense in the perfect setting!
If you've ever been to the Low Country and Savannah then you know there's an inherent sense of history and long buried secrets that you feel all around you. I just returned from the area a couple of weeks ago and The Girl in the Maze took me right back to the moss draped shadows and the spooky beauty of the area.
It's so tragic the way the Gullah/Geechee communities of the Low Country and Sea Islands have been robbed of so much of their land. Combine that with the area's atmosphere, the "haints" still in residence, the fear of mental illness that schizophrenia invokes, and some very greedy people and you're in for a great read!
This book is high suspense in the perfect setting!
August 22, 2015
Okay, this girl is hearing voices worse than me? HA! I'm intrigued. Actually it's not a funny subject, but it is a creepy one in this book. Supposedly Martha has been discharged from the asylum and considered normal as long as she takes her meds. What the doctors don't know is that she's being placed in a home and a job that has lots of secrets with ghosts that only want to talk to her. Is she still crazy or is something else going on?
I could not put this one down. Well, there was this one chapter with some crab claw dude that I'm pretty sure came from the author's Woodstock days, because it was totally cray cray and out there. It really didn't go with the story and seemed like a commercial break. Besides that, the book was very fast paced and definitely held my attention. I could tell just a small bit that it was a debut book, but it did not take away any enjoyment for me. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is into psycho thrillers. This girl had a LOT of crap going on in her head but at the same time she was so smart! It was definitely disturbing!!!
Thanks Random House and Net Galley for providing me with this free e-galley in exchange for an honest review. It was both entertaining and enjoyable!
I could not put this one down. Well, there was this one chapter with some crab claw dude that I'm pretty sure came from the author's Woodstock days, because it was totally cray cray and out there. It really didn't go with the story and seemed like a commercial break. Besides that, the book was very fast paced and definitely held my attention. I could tell just a small bit that it was a debut book, but it did not take away any enjoyment for me. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is into psycho thrillers. This girl had a LOT of crap going on in her head but at the same time she was so smart! It was definitely disturbing!!!
Thanks Random House and Net Galley for providing me with this free e-galley in exchange for an honest review. It was both entertaining and enjoyable!
August 10, 2015
The Girl in the Maze is a fantastic, hard-to-put-down read. Mysterious, beautifully constructed, and suspenseful, the novel centers on Martha Covington, who after being released from psychiatric care and evaluation, lands a full-time internship as an editorial assistant. Martha is eager to put her troubled past behind her and start fresh, if only the voices in her head would leave her be. So she diligently takes her meds to manage her schizophrenia and enthusiastically reports to work, where she assists in transcribing the oral history of the Geechee people. She likes her job well enough. She likes her new boss and coworkers. Her confidence builds. But then things start going awry. She hears voices––angry and argumentative. She makes an odd (to say the least) discovery at the rooming house where she resides and is no longer sure of her sanity. Things worsen. Her boss is murdered, and Martha becomes Amberleen's top suspect. She is after all, crazy. Gripping, richly imagined, and, unexpectedly funny at times, with a hint of paranormal (thumbs up), I loved this wonderful debut and am looking forward to the sequel.
August 25, 2015
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, R.K. Jackson, Alibi, and Random House Publishing Group for providing me with a copy of this book, which allows me to provide you with this review.
Jackson seeks to make a mark on the psychological thriller genre after a successful career as a science writer and employee of CNN. This debut novel has a number of great aspects, as well as some tweaking a first-time published author can expect. After a psychotic break and time in an institution, Martha Covington arrives in Amberleen, Georgia. She's taken a job working with the local historical society and is helping with a project to preserve this history and lands of the Geeshee, who descended from slaves and have remained a strong presence for the past two centuries. While transcribing the oral histories of the region, voices that haunted her in the past reemerge and leave her scrambling to understand what is going on, both inside her mind and in her environs. After a horrific murder finds her pitted as the perfect suspect, she must go into hiding to keep the authorities away. She is innocent, or so she thinks, but has no one to vouch for her, save an activist sought by the authorities for his own transgressions. Could the mysteries she uncovered in her research be the key to why she is being targeted? Might her mental illness be something that can be handled without medications by the Geeshee? Jackson poses these and many other questions in a fast-paced novel that pulls the reader into the dark side from the early stages.
An established writer, Jackson can expect to have the polish of the written word and utilise this forte to pull the reader into the story. Much of the story is strong and the dialogue believable, placing the reader in rural Georgia without issue. The story moves effectively and the pace is such that a reader feels the progression without too many barricades. However, the "flow of antifreeze from the heart" factor, a psychological thrill, lacks from the outset. There is enough fodder to create something eerie, but its presentation skims only the surface. I did not find myself gasping or wondering what lay beyond the next corner, even if Jackson tried to place Martha in such situations. It was more a thriller with a keen subplot about the horrors of mental disease, a social commentary embedded in the piece. One cannot ignore the numerous capitalisation issues in the unedited proof, which were distractions and an amateur mistake on either Jackson's part or a gofer given a day to sit at the proofing desk. At this stage (both just before publication and by a man whose life has been writing), this is unacceptable and should never have been left to make its way out of the publishing house. Jackson has some great ideas, some solid means of presenting a story, but needs to work on the delivery and hone that chill factor before publishing under this genre again. Overall, a decent first effort to intrigue new readers.
Kudos, Mister Jackson for this decent first attempt at published work. Keep working on the skills you have and you will surely rise to the middle of your genre. The rest is up to your ideas and the dedication you bring to the craft.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Jackson seeks to make a mark on the psychological thriller genre after a successful career as a science writer and employee of CNN. This debut novel has a number of great aspects, as well as some tweaking a first-time published author can expect. After a psychotic break and time in an institution, Martha Covington arrives in Amberleen, Georgia. She's taken a job working with the local historical society and is helping with a project to preserve this history and lands of the Geeshee, who descended from slaves and have remained a strong presence for the past two centuries. While transcribing the oral histories of the region, voices that haunted her in the past reemerge and leave her scrambling to understand what is going on, both inside her mind and in her environs. After a horrific murder finds her pitted as the perfect suspect, she must go into hiding to keep the authorities away. She is innocent, or so she thinks, but has no one to vouch for her, save an activist sought by the authorities for his own transgressions. Could the mysteries she uncovered in her research be the key to why she is being targeted? Might her mental illness be something that can be handled without medications by the Geeshee? Jackson poses these and many other questions in a fast-paced novel that pulls the reader into the dark side from the early stages.
An established writer, Jackson can expect to have the polish of the written word and utilise this forte to pull the reader into the story. Much of the story is strong and the dialogue believable, placing the reader in rural Georgia without issue. The story moves effectively and the pace is such that a reader feels the progression without too many barricades. However, the "flow of antifreeze from the heart" factor, a psychological thrill, lacks from the outset. There is enough fodder to create something eerie, but its presentation skims only the surface. I did not find myself gasping or wondering what lay beyond the next corner, even if Jackson tried to place Martha in such situations. It was more a thriller with a keen subplot about the horrors of mental disease, a social commentary embedded in the piece. One cannot ignore the numerous capitalisation issues in the unedited proof, which were distractions and an amateur mistake on either Jackson's part or a gofer given a day to sit at the proofing desk. At this stage (both just before publication and by a man whose life has been writing), this is unacceptable and should never have been left to make its way out of the publishing house. Jackson has some great ideas, some solid means of presenting a story, but needs to work on the delivery and hone that chill factor before publishing under this genre again. Overall, a decent first effort to intrigue new readers.
Kudos, Mister Jackson for this decent first attempt at published work. Keep working on the skills you have and you will surely rise to the middle of your genre. The rest is up to your ideas and the dedication you bring to the craft.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
June 22, 2015
The Girl in the Maze is a fast paced psychological thriller that keeps you engaged from beginning to end. The story begins with Martha, our protagonist, moving to a small Georgia town called Amberleen in order to pursue an internship with a historical society. Martha has just recently been released from psychiatric care after having a psychotic breakdown in her college dorm room. Her doctor has diagnosed her as schizophrenic, but assures her that as long as she takes her meds, she will be fine. Martha has always heard voices and usually sees someone she calls Lenny who is as real to her as anyone is. He whispers dark things to her and the medicine keeps him away.
She is so excited to begin recording the oral history of the Geechee people and has the opportunity to write a book about that history. She enjoys the people she works with and is settling in to her work when she starts hearing voices again. The woman who sponsored Martha’s internship is brutally killed and it seems that Martha is the killer. Not knowing who to trust, not knowing if she is innocent, she disappears into the swamp.
What I liked: This is such a great example of a Southern Gothic mystery, and was so much fun to read. The amount of research that went into the Geechee history is apparent and I appreciated that. The fight to keep their island is something relatable as it seems so much is being taken over by big business every day.
With many cultures, mental illness is not viewed with the stigma it’s viewed in the Western world. Many prophets and seers have been thought to have some sort of mental illness and such is the case with the Geechee people. The ability to see what’s not there and to talk with the spirit world is something prized, not something shunned and labeled. It was nice to see that side.
What I didn’t like: I would have liked to have known more about Martha before she came to Amberleen and what lead to her breakdown. We know very little about her family and her family’s history.
This really is a great book and a throughly enjoyable mystery.
ARC provided by NetGalley
https://readingfemme.wordpress.com/20...
She is so excited to begin recording the oral history of the Geechee people and has the opportunity to write a book about that history. She enjoys the people she works with and is settling in to her work when she starts hearing voices again. The woman who sponsored Martha’s internship is brutally killed and it seems that Martha is the killer. Not knowing who to trust, not knowing if she is innocent, she disappears into the swamp.
What I liked: This is such a great example of a Southern Gothic mystery, and was so much fun to read. The amount of research that went into the Geechee history is apparent and I appreciated that. The fight to keep their island is something relatable as it seems so much is being taken over by big business every day.
With many cultures, mental illness is not viewed with the stigma it’s viewed in the Western world. Many prophets and seers have been thought to have some sort of mental illness and such is the case with the Geechee people. The ability to see what’s not there and to talk with the spirit world is something prized, not something shunned and labeled. It was nice to see that side.
What I didn’t like: I would have liked to have known more about Martha before she came to Amberleen and what lead to her breakdown. We know very little about her family and her family’s history.
This really is a great book and a throughly enjoyable mystery.
ARC provided by NetGalley
https://readingfemme.wordpress.com/20...
August 27, 2015
You are in for a treat if you have not yet read R.K. Jackson’s new thriller entitled “The Girl in the Maze”. Once I began reading this novel I could not put it down; I just had to know what was ultimately going to happen. Discovering the finale was effortless since this well written story is a rapid read.
I found it refreshing to read a novel with a strong female character. Martha personifies courageous vulnerability as she is coping with her internal and external challenges. Martha has been diagnosed with schizophrenia; I was rooting for her. She was not some villain or fear-provoking person as too many individuals with a clinical syndrome are portrayed. The island residents from the Geechee culture consider Martha to have spiritual gifts and thus they validate and find worthy her statistically atypical consciousness experiences.
Jackson fluently weaves lots of details (likely based on laborious research) into this novel so seamlessly that one does not get dragged down by them. Instead, these fine points enrich the story-telling so that you feel that you really know the intriguing, multifaceted characters and fascinating places depicted. R.K.’s literary skills draw the reader into the story so that you feel the suspense building and easily creating empathy for Martha. I like how Martha’s mind is reflected by her tumultuous world that includes being chased and turbulent weather.
I want to know more about the strong woman Martha who is the protagonist. I hope that another related book will be forthcoming. I am intrigued to learn more about her earlier life. I am also curious about any possible future that Martha might have with Jarrell.
I am grateful to have read an advance copy of this novel so as to be able to share my interpretation with other readers. This opportunity was offered to me since I have a relevant discipline expertise (Ph.D. in Psychology).
I found it refreshing to read a novel with a strong female character. Martha personifies courageous vulnerability as she is coping with her internal and external challenges. Martha has been diagnosed with schizophrenia; I was rooting for her. She was not some villain or fear-provoking person as too many individuals with a clinical syndrome are portrayed. The island residents from the Geechee culture consider Martha to have spiritual gifts and thus they validate and find worthy her statistically atypical consciousness experiences.
Jackson fluently weaves lots of details (likely based on laborious research) into this novel so seamlessly that one does not get dragged down by them. Instead, these fine points enrich the story-telling so that you feel that you really know the intriguing, multifaceted characters and fascinating places depicted. R.K.’s literary skills draw the reader into the story so that you feel the suspense building and easily creating empathy for Martha. I like how Martha’s mind is reflected by her tumultuous world that includes being chased and turbulent weather.
I want to know more about the strong woman Martha who is the protagonist. I hope that another related book will be forthcoming. I am intrigued to learn more about her earlier life. I am also curious about any possible future that Martha might have with Jarrell.
I am grateful to have read an advance copy of this novel so as to be able to share my interpretation with other readers. This opportunity was offered to me since I have a relevant discipline expertise (Ph.D. in Psychology).
September 8, 2015
The Girl in the Maze is the first foray into fiction for former CNN journalist, R. K. Jackson. It is the story of Martha Covington, a young woman who has suffered a psychotic event and has completed treatment for schizophrenia. A promising journalism student, her psychologist Vince Trauger, has helped her to get a summer internship with The Historical Society of Amberleen, Georgia, a fictional coastal town near Savannah.
With her condition under control on her medications, Martha optimistically arrives in Amberleen, excited about her position and its promise. She rents a room at the Pritchett House and is able to walk to her job and all around town. But the Pritchett House has secrets of its own and the voices try to bring them to Martha.
In her first days at the Historical Society, Martha accompanies her boss, Lydia Dussault, to Shell Heap Island. The island is off the coast, reachable only by boat. The island is the domain of a small Geechee population and the source of the stories being recorded by the Historical Society. During this outing Martha meets the unofficial island mayor, Astrid Humphries, as well as blind seer Lady Albertha who senses Martha's voices and tells her there is a reason she came there, inferring that the spirits have called her.
Martha finds that there are strange occurrences in Amberleen, including the plans to confiscate Shell Heap Island for resort development. She trusts the wrong people and ends up framed for murder, then is chased through marsh and wetland, storm and flood.
R. K. Jackson has been compared to authors Gillian Flynn, Paula Hawkins, and Tana French, but I find this work more reminiscent of The Double Bind by Chris Bohjalian. The psychological aspect and interwoven reality, perceived and true, bring this novel to the brutal eye of the storm. I recommend this book and look forward to R. K. Jackson's future writings.
July 22, 2015
This book was not at all what I expected and I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed reading it. There was an interesting plot involving a small town in Georgia and a young lady with a history of schizophrenia who moves to the town after a psychotic break and is trying to start her life over. I can say that every time a book starts with a character moving to a small town that I am guaranteed to be amazed at how scary small towns can be. I live in a small rural town and I am grateful we only really argue about wind farms.
The story evolves into the main character finding help in a young local gentleman with his own secrets. Together they try to uncover/discover the mystery behind developing an island with historical importance. It is a story of mental illness, greed and the relationships the characters, good and bad, develop. All in all, the writing is good, the book is interesting and I look forward to reading more of R.K. Jackson's books.
The story evolves into the main character finding help in a young local gentleman with his own secrets. Together they try to uncover/discover the mystery behind developing an island with historical importance. It is a story of mental illness, greed and the relationships the characters, good and bad, develop. All in all, the writing is good, the book is interesting and I look forward to reading more of R.K. Jackson's books.
September 8, 2015
As a practicing psychotherapist, I was intrigued by this sympathetic portrayal of a young woman struggling with mental illness. Too often, people with mental illness are portrayed as villains or objects of fear. I was allowed to review and provide professional feedback on an earlier draft, which I found captivating and suspenseful. I look forward to reading the published version.
July 23, 2015
The Girl in the Maze is my first novel by RK Jackson. I found it unsettling and moody, and I really liked it.
This novel takes you into the mind of a young woman who is struggling with demons and it is one bumpy ride. Don't turn off the light5 while reading this one. I definitely liked it.
This novel takes you into the mind of a young woman who is struggling with demons and it is one bumpy ride. Don't turn off the light5 while reading this one. I definitely liked it.
September 8, 2025
Gripping tale of murder, greed, and mental health set around an endangered Georgia coastal community.
The Girl in the Maze is the first book in author R.K. Jackson’s Martha Covington Thriller series set along the Georgia coastline and featuring a dying Geechee community, the descendants of former slaves. Martha Covington, a young journalism student, had suffered a mental crisis while in school, which resulted in an extended hospitalization. When she was released, part of her easing her return to normal life was a light-duty internship with the Amberleen (Georgia) Historical Society, helping to record and transcribe interviews with the last surviving members of the local Geechee people living on nearby Shell Heap, a small, isolated barrier island along the coast. However, the untouched natural beauty of the island had finally caught the eyes of hungry developers, and the contents of their deep pockets had grabbed the attention of equally greedy county leaders. There was big money to be made if only the Geechee weren’t in the way. Lydia Dussault, Martha’s new boss at the historical society, is an important and politically-connected champion in the Geechee’s corner, and suddenly Martha finds herself smack in the middle of a dangerous, high-stakes fight not only for her hard-won sanity but for her very life.
Martha is a unique main character who is suffering from debilitating mental health issues and is also receptive to voices and visions from the spirit world. From the start, I wasn’t sure how reliable a narrator she actually was, but her ensuing story made for riveting reading. She’s one of the most game protagonists I’ve ever encountered. Although she feels vulnerable and unprepared for her role, she’s willing to step outside her narrow comfort zone to complete critical tasks for her new employer, uncovering some outstanding clues, and this is before everything goes really sideways.The Geechee storyline was a fascinating element of the plot, and some of my favorite characters, Lady Albertha and Jarrell Humphries, were from the community. I really enjoyed the wisewoman aspects of the story. The Geechee people are a real and existing group, found in Georgia and several other southern states.
The plot moves quickly, with twists and turns that kept me highly engaged, but completely off-balance as I attempted to guess what was really going on, especially as Martha’s mental state shifted. Early on, I began to wonder if what I’d been led to understand was the impact of mental illness was something else entirely. This question, and others, had me reading long and late into the night, and I felt completely rewarded for doing so. I’m delighted there’s a book two!I recommend THE GIRL IN THE MAZE to readers of mysteries and psychological thrillers.
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.
October 10, 2015
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in return for an honest review.
This book has it all; a great plot, villainous and corrupt politicians who will stop at nothing to get what they want, paranormal events, madness and a damaged heroine.
Martha is schizophrenic, as a step on the road to recovery she takes a job in the small town of Amberleen. The voices and visions are back, or are they? Unexplained events begin to happen, people begin to die then Martha is accused of murder; she is on the run and doesn't have her meds. She has to try and clear her name but she also has to fight her illness, has to fight for her sanity so that she can survive.
Martha is a great character and one I immediately liked, felt sympathy for and held my breath for while she stumbled around trying to find keep her sanity and find a way to prove her innocence.
This book was built to quite a fast pace, had my heart racing and kept me turning page after page until the end without letting me eat or sleep.
I would definitely recommend this book and look forward to reading more from R K Jackson.
This book has it all; a great plot, villainous and corrupt politicians who will stop at nothing to get what they want, paranormal events, madness and a damaged heroine.
Martha is schizophrenic, as a step on the road to recovery she takes a job in the small town of Amberleen. The voices and visions are back, or are they? Unexplained events begin to happen, people begin to die then Martha is accused of murder; she is on the run and doesn't have her meds. She has to try and clear her name but she also has to fight her illness, has to fight for her sanity so that she can survive.
Martha is a great character and one I immediately liked, felt sympathy for and held my breath for while she stumbled around trying to find keep her sanity and find a way to prove her innocence.
This book was built to quite a fast pace, had my heart racing and kept me turning page after page until the end without letting me eat or sleep.
I would definitely recommend this book and look forward to reading more from R K Jackson.
November 1, 2015
The girl in the maze
Has three genres in one - thriller, mystery and horror Martha Covington was diagnosed and institutionilized for Schizophrenia. After being released from the hospital, As long as she takes her meds, Martha feels she is ready to take a job as an intern with the Historical Society of Amberleen, Georgia. The historical society is working on the preservation of Shell Heap, an island in the Georgia Golden Isles. The Geeches who are the inhabitants of this island and direct decendants of the slave who were freed after the Civil War, have lived here in isolation and developed their own system of culture and beliefs. Martha starts to wonder if the voices in her head are from her own mental condition or as a result of the eery surroundings on the island.
The plot of the story is about how the town really wants to control the island and this leads to corruption and murder and leaves Martha wondering if she's having another breakdown. I would recommend this book. It kept me at the edge of my seat and couldn't wait to get to the end!
Has three genres in one - thriller, mystery and horror Martha Covington was diagnosed and institutionilized for Schizophrenia. After being released from the hospital, As long as she takes her meds, Martha feels she is ready to take a job as an intern with the Historical Society of Amberleen, Georgia. The historical society is working on the preservation of Shell Heap, an island in the Georgia Golden Isles. The Geeches who are the inhabitants of this island and direct decendants of the slave who were freed after the Civil War, have lived here in isolation and developed their own system of culture and beliefs. Martha starts to wonder if the voices in her head are from her own mental condition or as a result of the eery surroundings on the island.
The plot of the story is about how the town really wants to control the island and this leads to corruption and murder and leaves Martha wondering if she's having another breakdown. I would recommend this book. It kept me at the edge of my seat and couldn't wait to get to the end!
August 27, 2015
* I received this ARC from NetGalley and Alibi Publishing in exchange for an honest review*
R. K. Jackson drew me into Martha's story within the first few paragraphs and the great ride continued up to the last sentence of "The Girl in the Maze". The plots twists and turns were neverending, while your empathy for Martha and her plight persevered.
I am happy to see that Jackson will be writing more Martha Covington books in the future, since the character and her psychosis is rather unique. I think most all fans of psychological thrillers will enjoy this R. K. Jackson's novel!
R. K. Jackson drew me into Martha's story within the first few paragraphs and the great ride continued up to the last sentence of "The Girl in the Maze". The plots twists and turns were neverending, while your empathy for Martha and her plight persevered.
I am happy to see that Jackson will be writing more Martha Covington books in the future, since the character and her psychosis is rather unique. I think most all fans of psychological thrillers will enjoy this R. K. Jackson's novel!
September 7, 2015
Wow!I thoroughly enjoyed THE GIRL IN THE MAZE. It has everything that the coastal south has to offer: a hurricane, a corrupt sheriff, voodoo, mystical Geechee characters, a crooked land deal, a lighthouse and a thrilling chase through the grass maze. The protagonist is a strong female character, who despite her disability, has to outwit a psychopathic killer and her own schizophrenic delusions. This novel operates on many levels and will keep you thinking long after you finish it. When does the movie come out?
July 21, 2015
I have received this book for free off of net galley in exchange for my full and honest opinion.
This book is about a girl named Martha who was hospitalized and treated for schizophrenia. Martha ends up getting a position in the Amberleen historical society and she helps piece together the history of Shell Heap. When the voices that used to haunt her come back things start to go haywire. A lady named Albertha tells her that she has a gift and that things are going to get real bad soon. Martha is left trying to survive through twists and turns and a whole lot of crazy.
This book was an enjoyable read for me. I was a bit slumpy while reading it, but not because it was bad, just because I was slumpy. The book had very interesting characters who had very in depth personalities. At one point we are introduced to Jarrell more in depth than throughout the beginning of the book. This kid who's this supposed "thug" turns out to be very smart and was a premed student.
The plot of the book was panned out nicely. So that it didn't seem rushed for most of the book. It also was great getting the history of Shell Heap and the history of Amberleen, as well. The writing was beautiful and it explained everything perfectly.
One thing I didn't quite like about this book was that certain situations weren't that believable. At one point Martha is hobbling around on a leg that has a bullet wound in it. It gets cleaned up and everything but then she goes traipsing through the mud and rain and yuck to get to places. I couldn't believe that could actually happen in real life. Also, there was a part where a character gets severely injured, like, every bone is broken and yet he's still alive and managing to move around. I'm not a doctor or anything, but I don't think that's healthy. Other than those things the book was rather enjoyable, and if it seems interesting to you I suggest you check it out! (:
This book is about a girl named Martha who was hospitalized and treated for schizophrenia. Martha ends up getting a position in the Amberleen historical society and she helps piece together the history of Shell Heap. When the voices that used to haunt her come back things start to go haywire. A lady named Albertha tells her that she has a gift and that things are going to get real bad soon. Martha is left trying to survive through twists and turns and a whole lot of crazy.
This book was an enjoyable read for me. I was a bit slumpy while reading it, but not because it was bad, just because I was slumpy. The book had very interesting characters who had very in depth personalities. At one point we are introduced to Jarrell more in depth than throughout the beginning of the book. This kid who's this supposed "thug" turns out to be very smart and was a premed student.
The plot of the book was panned out nicely. So that it didn't seem rushed for most of the book. It also was great getting the history of Shell Heap and the history of Amberleen, as well. The writing was beautiful and it explained everything perfectly.
One thing I didn't quite like about this book was that certain situations weren't that believable. At one point Martha is hobbling around on a leg that has a bullet wound in it. It gets cleaned up and everything but then she goes traipsing through the mud and rain and yuck to get to places. I couldn't believe that could actually happen in real life. Also, there was a part where a character gets severely injured, like, every bone is broken and yet he's still alive and managing to move around. I'm not a doctor or anything, but I don't think that's healthy. Other than those things the book was rather enjoyable, and if it seems interesting to you I suggest you check it out! (:
September 4, 2015
When I started this book I wasn't really sure what I was getting myself into. The first couple of chapters had me wondering. But as I started to read I started to fall in love with the characters and the story line Let me introduce you to Martha Covington, a poor woman that has just been released from a psychiatric hospital. Now that she is cured she heads Amberleen Georgia to work on a history book about the rich history of the city and surrounding area. But alas she gets pulled into a mystery and she starts to hear voices . Now she has to figure out who the murderer is while she fights her own demons
This is the author's debut novel and she has created some very strong characters . Martha is both strong yet venerable at the same time . She has battled Schizophrenia and come out with meds . But she isn't have a miracle cure . She lives with her disease every day. The author didn't give her a miracle cure . Which was actually great to read , too many characters end up all cured . She worked with the disease and made a great story out of it. There a great mixture of supporting characters from the old lady in the shop that is more then just a potion's lady . To the greedy land developers. You don't really know who are the bad guys and the good guys through out the book .
The author takes great care handling all aspects of the story. She has created such and intriguing story. Full of suspense and maybe a giggle or two. She has wrapped the history of the city with a story of greedy land developer. The story is nicely written and it flows well. For a debut author she did a very good job. The characters are well written along with the story line . You will end up with a book hang over as you delve into this story . You will giggle and you will shed a tear or two , but over all you will cheer for the characters.
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