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Making Amends
Length: 5 hours 49 minutes
On a beautiful fall evening, in the middle of a game of hide-and-seek, five-year-old Bobby Clark is kidnapped by his estranged father, a shiftless man with a history of domestic violence and drug abuse. Bobby's twin brother Ricky watches, terrified, from his hiding place behind the bougainvillea, while mother Tabby, who also struggles with addiction, lies inebriated on the living room floor.
Bobby isn't seen by his loved ones again until a fateful morning 25 years later, when video of his arrest dominates the morning news. He has been charged with the murder of his father, but before the trial can begin, he manages to escape.
As Tabby and Ricky absorb the news of Bobby's return and subsequent escape, Tabby is convinced he'll come home to the quiet Florida street from which he was taken so long ago. But when events begin to spiral out of control, she's left to wonder: is a child born to be evil, or shaped to be evil? And in the end, when it's time to make amends, does it really matter?
On a beautiful fall evening, in the middle of a game of hide-and-seek, five-year-old Bobby Clark is kidnapped by his estranged father, a shiftless man with a history of domestic violence and drug abuse. Bobby's twin brother Ricky watches, terrified, from his hiding place behind the bougainvillea, while mother Tabby, who also struggles with addiction, lies inebriated on the living room floor.
Bobby isn't seen by his loved ones again until a fateful morning 25 years later, when video of his arrest dominates the morning news. He has been charged with the murder of his father, but before the trial can begin, he manages to escape.
As Tabby and Ricky absorb the news of Bobby's return and subsequent escape, Tabby is convinced he'll come home to the quiet Florida street from which he was taken so long ago. But when events begin to spiral out of control, she's left to wonder: is a child born to be evil, or shaped to be evil? And in the end, when it's time to make amends, does it really matter?
6 pages, Audible Audio
Published March 16, 2016
5 people are currently reading
205 people want to read
About the author
Melinda Clayton
21 books115 followersMelinda Clayton writes primarily southern psychological suspense, and is the author of eight novels, numerous articles and short stories, and two family genealogies. She has an Ed.D. in Education Administration, is a licensed psychotherapist in Colorado and Florida (now on retired status), and teaches MFA classes for SNHU COCE.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
August 22, 2017
Twenty-five years after one of Tabby Clark's twin boys, Robert(Bobby) was kidnapped by his estranged father, Vernon, she saw him for the first time again on television. He was arrested in Tampa for killing his father.
She saw half of her heart on that screen. "Funny", she thought, "they could not find Bobby when he was stolen, but sure as hell knew how to find him now."
Her quiet life in Central Florida, working at "Von's Plants and Such" nursery, belonging to her two best friends, Von and Ben, came to a screeching halt that morning.
For the other twin brother, Ricky, life as he knew it, would never be the same as well.
Tabby, Ricky and Von had to confront the past to try and make sense of what happened that morning. Ben was slipping out of reality as Alzheimers was claiming his life and memories as he knew it. His confusion prevented him from grasping the situation, yet his instinct warned him that everything is not so cut and paste as it seemed. But who would believe him ...
TABBY
Thirty years ago Tabby wasn't a good mother. The State of Florida's Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services had stacks and stacks of files on her, proving her sorry life. They had to wheel them into court on a dolly. She hadn't set out to be a bad mother, hell, she hadn't set out to be a mother at all. But there she was, half dead of a drug overdose and unknowingly fourteen weeks pregnant with twins, when she was brought to a hospital. She blamed the sorry-ass bastard, Vernon Clarke, because that's what druggies do - blame other people for their own misery. She believed he had limitless ways of wrecking her sorry life. 'A Bag Bitch' he used to call her. Five years later he would pull a kidnapping stunt on her to revenge Tabby's decision for leaving him and go straight and sober after the birth of the twins. The disappearance of Bobby haunted her for the rest of her life. She never stopped searching.
Tabby: For years, I dreamt of those eyes, bargaining with both God and Satan, promising my very soul if one of them would bring my child back to me. One of them did.
It took twenty-five years. She sat in shock when the past shown up on that television screen. Being sober for all those years brought new perspectives to her. Tabby blamed herself for everything that has happened to Bobby and Ricky.
"Someone once told me three o'clock in the morning was the haunting hour. If that's true, and I believe it is, it's only us haunting ourselves. No one can torture us more than we can torture ourselves because we know all the bruises to push and cuts to salt and we do a mighty fine job of pushing and salting."
That night in hospital changed Tabitha Clark's life forever. She was determined to prevent Florida's Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services to get hold of her babies. Although they saved Tabby from a childhood of abuse and neglect, there were different degrees to the word 'saved'. Her babies would be saved her way. She would get clean. And clean she was when she delivered her beautiful boys.
VERONICA (VON)
Von was not a soft person. If she did go soft, Tabby went onto high alert. Von was Tabby's best friend, ever since that first day when she walked into that meeting and said: "I'm Tabitha Clark, and I desperately need help". Von was the closest to Tabby when the twenty-one year old girl swooned. Von hopped a pew to catch her before she fell. It would become the metaphor for their lives. The sponsor and sponsored redefined those roles in the ensuing years. They became sisters.
Von rented half of of their duplex to Tabby and her two boys. They became neighbors, sharing not only a stoep, but also a lifetime of memories, raising their children together as one family. Ben became the surrogate father to the boys.
RICKY
Ricky's values as a journalist for the cheezy newspaper, News From the Swamp Lands, was suddenly challenged when his mother's history is splashed all over the newspaper he is working for. No other newspaper could dig up dirt like Swamp Lands. Co-journalists Jerry, and their boss, Andy, made sure that Ricky and his family won't escape their full attention. Their focus was the story under the story in the main newspapers. The dark depths of people's despair, was their beat, as long as the details and secrets of a scandal was sufficiently horrifying. Instead of targeting the sleaze in other people's lives, Ricky has to deal with the experience of becoming the target himself. It becomes a painful experience to taste the medicine his newspaper dishes out to people in the name of circulation and internet hits.
My comments:
I listened to the audio book, graciously provided by the narrator, Michele Babb. The story began as dramatic as it ended, and never faltered between the beginning and end to keep the listener focused and committed to this suspense drama. The ending came as a total surprise. It left me breathless, lost in thought, for a very long time. It is the kind of ending that separates an excellent read from a mediocre dribble of words.
Everything a suspense reader wants in a book is present: the high drama, the intrigue, the atmosphere and ambiance, a complex plot, and the slow reveal of the past which gradually adds a multitude of color and nuance to the characters. Add to that the southern storytelling tradition, elegantly enhanced by Michelle Babb's accent in the audio version, and the experience becomes an unforgettable journey into the lives of imperfect people who challenged and conquered the lives that was dished out to them at birth. They made choices. Good and bad. They faced the consequences with their heads held high.
Southern prose at its finest. An absolute deeply moving, riveting read!
RECOMMENDED!
March 30, 2016
Making Amends is a standalone, women's fiction novel written by Melinda Clayton. Making Amends uses three separate POV's to delve into a variety of personal/family issues on it's journey to a surprisingly suspenseful end of a mystery solved. Some of the elements incorporated include addiction/mental health, domestic violence, custody issues, family dysfunction, the criminal justice system, nature versus nurture, friendship, functioning with Alzheimer's, and a daily prayer for redemption.
In my perspective, Ms. Clayton has created flawed characters in situations that draw out a fair amount of palpable emotion from readers. I was hoping to feel a bit more emotionally connected to these characters and their situations, and leave the reading experience with a "That was awesome!" feeling but the writing didn't quite hit that high mark for me personally. The audiobook narrator Michelle Babb helped the southern setting and family culture come alive with her tone and slight accent, which was a nice addition. Overall, I thought Making Amends was a good book and I liked it overall. If you enjoy the women's fiction genre, with a suspense/mystery element thrown in, then check it out for yourself!
My favorite quote:
"Someone once told me three o'clock in the morning was the haunting hour. If that's true, and I believe it is, it's only us haunting ourselves. No one can torture us more than we can torture ourselves because we know all the bruises to push and cuts to salt and we do a mighty fine job of pushing and salting."
Note: I received a gifted copy of this audiobook from the narrator: Michelle Babb in exchange for an honest review.
In my perspective, Ms. Clayton has created flawed characters in situations that draw out a fair amount of palpable emotion from readers. I was hoping to feel a bit more emotionally connected to these characters and their situations, and leave the reading experience with a "That was awesome!" feeling but the writing didn't quite hit that high mark for me personally. The audiobook narrator Michelle Babb helped the southern setting and family culture come alive with her tone and slight accent, which was a nice addition. Overall, I thought Making Amends was a good book and I liked it overall. If you enjoy the women's fiction genre, with a suspense/mystery element thrown in, then check it out for yourself!
My favorite quote:
"Someone once told me three o'clock in the morning was the haunting hour. If that's true, and I believe it is, it's only us haunting ourselves. No one can torture us more than we can torture ourselves because we know all the bruises to push and cuts to salt and we do a mighty fine job of pushing and salting."
Note: I received a gifted copy of this audiobook from the narrator: Michelle Babb in exchange for an honest review.
October 30, 2016
This is a topic that could have been ripped right from the news headlines. It’s a realistic drama that plays out in an emotional and frightening manner. This is a totally engrossing and captivating story.
I listened to the audio version. The narrator, Michelle Babb, has a great flair for dramatic readings. She brings the listener right into the story giving them the opportunity to feel every tragic event the characters are going through.
This is a fascinating tale of a mother's worst nightmare and how it effects the entire family. Both the author and narrator did a great job with this one.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I listened to the audio version. The narrator, Michelle Babb, has a great flair for dramatic readings. She brings the listener right into the story giving them the opportunity to feel every tragic event the characters are going through.
This is a fascinating tale of a mother's worst nightmare and how it effects the entire family. Both the author and narrator did a great job with this one.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 10, 2017
Review originally published at: http://www.lomeraniel.com/audiobookre...
I have received a copy of this book in audio format from the narrator in exchange for an honest review.
Making Amends is the heartwrenching story of a dysfunctional family composed by an ex-alcoholic mother and two twins separated at the age of five. Tabby and her son Robert stayed together and counted with the help of Vonn and Ben, an older couple which helped Tabby to get back on her feet, and whom became part of the family. Bobby, the other twin, was taken by Vernon, his father, who also had problems with alcohol and drug abuse. Twenty five years later, Bobby appears in the news after killing his father, and Tabby's mind goes back in time thinking of all the times she wished her boy would have stayed with her. When brought back to be judged, Bobby escapes, and Tabby wonders if her baby will come back home, to the same old apartment in Florida where she always lived.
This is one of those books that keeps you thinking for a while after finishing it, thinking if things could have gone any differently if the characters would have made different choices. In a way it is filled with 'What if's'. I am not going to lie, saying that it is a nice book with a happy ending; but I will tell you that it is a very beautiful story with really charismatic characters. The book is written in first person, but the point of view switches all the time. It is easy to follow though, since each chapter starts announcing the name of the character that will do the talking. The characters are far from perfect, they have the flaws of real people, and the are fully developed. Tabby, Vonn and Ricky take turns to tell this story, and we will travel with them to their past and see the present through their eyes.
I did enjoy Michelle Babb's narration. She had distinctive rich voices and accents for all the characters, and she made me feel like I was watching a movie instead of listening to an audiobook. Clayton did a good job with dialogs, which were natural and well constructed, but I have to say that thanks to Babb, who interpreted them wonderfully, the dialogs were brought to life.
I loved this book, but it left we with a bittersweet aftertaste. I guess things do not always turn the way we want, or the way the characters in our favorite books want. I think this aftertaste is a victory of Clayton, who created characters for which I deeply cared.
I have received a copy of this book in audio format from the narrator in exchange for an honest review.
Making Amends is the heartwrenching story of a dysfunctional family composed by an ex-alcoholic mother and two twins separated at the age of five. Tabby and her son Robert stayed together and counted with the help of Vonn and Ben, an older couple which helped Tabby to get back on her feet, and whom became part of the family. Bobby, the other twin, was taken by Vernon, his father, who also had problems with alcohol and drug abuse. Twenty five years later, Bobby appears in the news after killing his father, and Tabby's mind goes back in time thinking of all the times she wished her boy would have stayed with her. When brought back to be judged, Bobby escapes, and Tabby wonders if her baby will come back home, to the same old apartment in Florida where she always lived.
This is one of those books that keeps you thinking for a while after finishing it, thinking if things could have gone any differently if the characters would have made different choices. In a way it is filled with 'What if's'. I am not going to lie, saying that it is a nice book with a happy ending; but I will tell you that it is a very beautiful story with really charismatic characters. The book is written in first person, but the point of view switches all the time. It is easy to follow though, since each chapter starts announcing the name of the character that will do the talking. The characters are far from perfect, they have the flaws of real people, and the are fully developed. Tabby, Vonn and Ricky take turns to tell this story, and we will travel with them to their past and see the present through their eyes.
I did enjoy Michelle Babb's narration. She had distinctive rich voices and accents for all the characters, and she made me feel like I was watching a movie instead of listening to an audiobook. Clayton did a good job with dialogs, which were natural and well constructed, but I have to say that thanks to Babb, who interpreted them wonderfully, the dialogs were brought to life.
I loved this book, but it left we with a bittersweet aftertaste. I guess things do not always turn the way we want, or the way the characters in our favorite books want. I think this aftertaste is a victory of Clayton, who created characters for which I deeply cared.
October 25, 2015
On the surface, Making Amends is a suspense novel, with all that implies. The point of view changes from chapter to chapter between three main characters.
Tabby, the mother of two identical twin boys, Ricky and Bobby. Kidnapped by his father when he was five, twenty-five long years ago, Bobby has not been heard from since. Then he's arrested for killing his father. Tabby has always felt guilty about Bobby's kidnapping, thinking she should have prevented it.
The second POV character is Ricky, who has always had ambiguous feelings about Bobby's kidnapping, wondering why their father only took one of them.
Last, Tabby's best friend Von, who has been involved in Tabby's life since before the twins were born. She provides a more realistic point of view, helping temper Tabby's self-recriminating thoughts.
The changing view points are clearly labeled at the start of each chapter and the transitions were easy for me to follow. From the descriptions of the characters above, you might have already gathered that while the story is suspense, the psychological aspects as they struggle with and try to come to terms with their pasts are actually where the best part of the story lies. In the process, it will set your mind reeling with thoughts and questions about responsibility, family and friendship, and the nature of evil.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
Tabby, the mother of two identical twin boys, Ricky and Bobby. Kidnapped by his father when he was five, twenty-five long years ago, Bobby has not been heard from since. Then he's arrested for killing his father. Tabby has always felt guilty about Bobby's kidnapping, thinking she should have prevented it.
The second POV character is Ricky, who has always had ambiguous feelings about Bobby's kidnapping, wondering why their father only took one of them.
Last, Tabby's best friend Von, who has been involved in Tabby's life since before the twins were born. She provides a more realistic point of view, helping temper Tabby's self-recriminating thoughts.
The changing view points are clearly labeled at the start of each chapter and the transitions were easy for me to follow. From the descriptions of the characters above, you might have already gathered that while the story is suspense, the psychological aspects as they struggle with and try to come to terms with their pasts are actually where the best part of the story lies. In the process, it will set your mind reeling with thoughts and questions about responsibility, family and friendship, and the nature of evil.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
September 23, 2015
I’m a sucker for a good, broken character seeking redemption, or at least trying to do damage control and move on. And Melinda Clayton brings it, with heart and compassion and the depth of understanding she undoubtedly brings from her background as a psychotherapist.
I stayed up way too late for several nights in a row reading Making Amends because I needed to know what happened next. The characters are full and heartbreakingly real, heartbreakingly broken and doing the best they can to pull it all together. I fell hard for Ben, a man on the edges of Alzheimer’s, lucid enough at times to understand and plan for what he’ll be losing, including his tender, funny, loving relationship with his wife, Von. I felt their conflict, their sorrow, their hope, their stolen moments. To tell too much would spoil this well-crafted, well-paced story, but I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a deep, thoughtful story about attempting to build a meaningful life out of the broken pieces.
I stayed up way too late for several nights in a row reading Making Amends because I needed to know what happened next. The characters are full and heartbreakingly real, heartbreakingly broken and doing the best they can to pull it all together. I fell hard for Ben, a man on the edges of Alzheimer’s, lucid enough at times to understand and plan for what he’ll be losing, including his tender, funny, loving relationship with his wife, Von. I felt their conflict, their sorrow, their hope, their stolen moments. To tell too much would spoil this well-crafted, well-paced story, but I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a deep, thoughtful story about attempting to build a meaningful life out of the broken pieces.
July 15, 2019
This is a fairly dark story of a broken family, and damaged people doing their best.
Thirty years ago, Tabby Clark, a young woman who grew up in the foster care system, and became addicted to drugs and alcohol, gave birth to identical twin boys. The relationship with the father didn't last, no surprise, and Tabby had, while pregnant, formed a friendship with a fellow addict in recovery, Von, and Von's husband, Ben.
Tabby kept backsliding on her recovery, even while working in Von and Ben's nursery business, until Vernon, the boys' father, stole one of the boys, Bobby. Twenty-five years later, Bobby suddenly reappears. On tv. Having been arrested for the murder of his father, Vernon.
Tabby had really stopped drinking and using after Vernon took Bobby, in order to hang on to her other son, Ricky. Now everything she's accomplished is threatened by her desire to have her other son back.
They're all complicated, flawed people.Tabby has been clean for over two decades now, but it's still a work in progress. She loves her son, Ricky, but she obsesses over her missing son, Bobby, and her feelings of guilt about him being kidnapped by his father. This means that in many ways, Ricky has taken second place to a ghost. Ricky loves his mother and knows she loves him, but he's aware of Bobby between them. He also wonders why his father took Bobby, but apparently couldn't be bothered to take him too.
Von is perhaps the strongest among them, but her status as clean and sober is as much a work in progress as Tabby's. She's also caring for her husband, Ben, who is slowly being swallowed up by Alzheimer's. He still has lucid periods, even days--and Ben, lucid, is a valuable person to have around, for everyone.
And of course, no one knows what really happened with Bobby and Vernon, except that Vernon is dead and Bobby killed him. The situation becomes even more fraught when Bobby, being transferred from one facility to another, escapes--seriously injuring two guards.
Tabby, Von, Ricky, Ben, and Von and Ben's daughter, Martha, are all interesting complicated, likable characters. They are all flawed, and they don't always make the right decisions or choices--some more than others. It's a darker story than I usually like, but it's very good, and the narration is excellent.
Recommended.
I received a free copy of this audiobook from the narrator, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
Thirty years ago, Tabby Clark, a young woman who grew up in the foster care system, and became addicted to drugs and alcohol, gave birth to identical twin boys. The relationship with the father didn't last, no surprise, and Tabby had, while pregnant, formed a friendship with a fellow addict in recovery, Von, and Von's husband, Ben.
Tabby kept backsliding on her recovery, even while working in Von and Ben's nursery business, until Vernon, the boys' father, stole one of the boys, Bobby. Twenty-five years later, Bobby suddenly reappears. On tv. Having been arrested for the murder of his father, Vernon.
Tabby had really stopped drinking and using after Vernon took Bobby, in order to hang on to her other son, Ricky. Now everything she's accomplished is threatened by her desire to have her other son back.
They're all complicated, flawed people.Tabby has been clean for over two decades now, but it's still a work in progress. She loves her son, Ricky, but she obsesses over her missing son, Bobby, and her feelings of guilt about him being kidnapped by his father. This means that in many ways, Ricky has taken second place to a ghost. Ricky loves his mother and knows she loves him, but he's aware of Bobby between them. He also wonders why his father took Bobby, but apparently couldn't be bothered to take him too.
Von is perhaps the strongest among them, but her status as clean and sober is as much a work in progress as Tabby's. She's also caring for her husband, Ben, who is slowly being swallowed up by Alzheimer's. He still has lucid periods, even days--and Ben, lucid, is a valuable person to have around, for everyone.
And of course, no one knows what really happened with Bobby and Vernon, except that Vernon is dead and Bobby killed him. The situation becomes even more fraught when Bobby, being transferred from one facility to another, escapes--seriously injuring two guards.
Tabby, Von, Ricky, Ben, and Von and Ben's daughter, Martha, are all interesting complicated, likable characters. They are all flawed, and they don't always make the right decisions or choices--some more than others. It's a darker story than I usually like, but it's very good, and the narration is excellent.
Recommended.
I received a free copy of this audiobook from the narrator, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
September 8, 2017
Making Amends by Melinda Clayton, Narrated Michelle Babb
After being missing for twenty-five years Bobby Clark turns up on the news for killing his father, the same father that took Bobby away from his mother Tabby and twin brother Ricky. Tabby Clark can hardly believe her son is still alive and living only a few hours away from her. She has dreamed of the day she would find her son, but finding him this way was not how she saw their reunion. Ricky ,forever living in the shadow of his brother, is dealing with the news of his brother’s re-appearance in his own way, he doesn’t see Bobby as the angel from their mother’s memories. Where has Bobby been for twenty-five years? Why didn’t he come back home to find Tabby and Ricky once he was an adult? Did he kill his father in self-defense or did he murder him in cold blood? Who is the real Bobby Clark?
This is a story that comes from the nightmares of mothers, having a child taken from you. Tabby feels she is to blame for her son’s disappearance. This book deals with kidnapping and the effect of the family that is left behind, always wondering where their family member is or if they are still alive and how the family is stuck never able to truly move on with their lives. The book also it deals with other hard life issues such as drug and alcohol dependence, Alzheimer's, and broken families. On the positive side the book shows real friendship, being there for someone one when they need you, helping someone up when they don’t think they can do anything on their own, and what it means to truly love someone whether it;s a mother and child or husband and wife.
Author Melinda Clayton did a fabulous job writing this book. The book is well paced, and she does a great job bringing in some comic relief to lighten up some very dark topics. The story is realistic, I could see this story coming straight from the news headlines.
Narrator Michelle Babb give a wonderful performance bringing the story and the characters to life. She helps you to feel compassion for what the family has gone through and continue to go through. You feel as if you are right there watching Tabby, Ricky, Bobby, Vonda, and Ben going through their life’s ups and downs.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes psychological thrillers.
After being missing for twenty-five years Bobby Clark turns up on the news for killing his father, the same father that took Bobby away from his mother Tabby and twin brother Ricky. Tabby Clark can hardly believe her son is still alive and living only a few hours away from her. She has dreamed of the day she would find her son, but finding him this way was not how she saw their reunion. Ricky ,forever living in the shadow of his brother, is dealing with the news of his brother’s re-appearance in his own way, he doesn’t see Bobby as the angel from their mother’s memories. Where has Bobby been for twenty-five years? Why didn’t he come back home to find Tabby and Ricky once he was an adult? Did he kill his father in self-defense or did he murder him in cold blood? Who is the real Bobby Clark?
This is a story that comes from the nightmares of mothers, having a child taken from you. Tabby feels she is to blame for her son’s disappearance. This book deals with kidnapping and the effect of the family that is left behind, always wondering where their family member is or if they are still alive and how the family is stuck never able to truly move on with their lives. The book also it deals with other hard life issues such as drug and alcohol dependence, Alzheimer's, and broken families. On the positive side the book shows real friendship, being there for someone one when they need you, helping someone up when they don’t think they can do anything on their own, and what it means to truly love someone whether it;s a mother and child or husband and wife.
Author Melinda Clayton did a fabulous job writing this book. The book is well paced, and she does a great job bringing in some comic relief to lighten up some very dark topics. The story is realistic, I could see this story coming straight from the news headlines.
Narrator Michelle Babb give a wonderful performance bringing the story and the characters to life. She helps you to feel compassion for what the family has gone through and continue to go through. You feel as if you are right there watching Tabby, Ricky, Bobby, Vonda, and Ben going through their life’s ups and downs.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes psychological thrillers.
May 31, 2018
( Format : Audiobook )
"Guilt is a powerful motivator."
Michelle Babb is an excellent narrator, her warm pleasant voice not only providing flawless reading with a natural intonation but also conveying emotion, be it sorrow or humour, sadness or laughter. She has the capacity to bring every protagonist to life, each given their own voice and three dimensional reality. In this book she excels beyond her own high standards, every character nuanced, individual and real.
The story is told throughout in the first person but switches between the points of view of a mother, Tabby, her son Richie, and Von, her neighbour, employer and friend. Tabby had grown up in the dubious care of social services, meeting and becoming addicted to cocaine with the to-be-father when released to the world as an adult, but getting herself clean when she found she was pregnant. But after giving birth she started to drink, sometimes heavily. The couple split up and she looked after her twin boys alone until, when they were five, one of the boys, Bobby, was kidnapped by his father and never found.
All of this background is revealed in flashbacks and rememberances as the book commences twenty five years later when Tabby sees the rolling news report on T.V. that her long lost baby boy, Bobby, had been arrested for the murder of his father but without any details surrounding the how or the why. Although having been a good, and sober, mother to her remaining twin son, Richie, since Bobby was taken, she had never stopped longing for her stolen boy, nor forgiven herself for losing him.
Now he is found again, albeit in difficult circumstances, and his reappearance will change the carefully constructed lives of mother, son Richie, and her closest friend forever.
Making Amends is a powerfully written thriller, not fast paced action but instead a totally absorbing tale of guilt, introspection, fragility, and the ever present what-will-happen?. It is well constructed with three dimensional characters whose very real lives are made all the more so, as previously mentioned, by the excellent performance of the narrator. A perfect pairing of book and reader - and highly recommended.
"Guilt is a powerful motivator."
Michelle Babb is an excellent narrator, her warm pleasant voice not only providing flawless reading with a natural intonation but also conveying emotion, be it sorrow or humour, sadness or laughter. She has the capacity to bring every protagonist to life, each given their own voice and three dimensional reality. In this book she excels beyond her own high standards, every character nuanced, individual and real.
The story is told throughout in the first person but switches between the points of view of a mother, Tabby, her son Richie, and Von, her neighbour, employer and friend. Tabby had grown up in the dubious care of social services, meeting and becoming addicted to cocaine with the to-be-father when released to the world as an adult, but getting herself clean when she found she was pregnant. But after giving birth she started to drink, sometimes heavily. The couple split up and she looked after her twin boys alone until, when they were five, one of the boys, Bobby, was kidnapped by his father and never found.
All of this background is revealed in flashbacks and rememberances as the book commences twenty five years later when Tabby sees the rolling news report on T.V. that her long lost baby boy, Bobby, had been arrested for the murder of his father but without any details surrounding the how or the why. Although having been a good, and sober, mother to her remaining twin son, Richie, since Bobby was taken, she had never stopped longing for her stolen boy, nor forgiven herself for losing him.
Now he is found again, albeit in difficult circumstances, and his reappearance will change the carefully constructed lives of mother, son Richie, and her closest friend forever.
Making Amends is a powerfully written thriller, not fast paced action but instead a totally absorbing tale of guilt, introspection, fragility, and the ever present what-will-happen?. It is well constructed with three dimensional characters whose very real lives are made all the more so, as previously mentioned, by the excellent performance of the narrator. A perfect pairing of book and reader - and highly recommended.
May 11, 2020
This is a different book for me to listen to but I really enjoyed it, mainly I think because it was so different. The story is told by a number of the characters, so jumps around a bit but I think this really works well for the story. It did tug on the heartstrings having one of the characters suffering from Alzheimer's but In a way it gave the story more impact and is a story that make you grateful for what you had. It was a well crafted plot and for a hard topic it was a griping read that had me hooked, wondering how it was going to end and with a number of twists it sure keeps you guessing.
What is it like to go on living when you are only half of a whole? That is the dilemma facing Ricky and his mother Tabby. Ricky brother is kidnapped by an abusive father and is never seen again. That is until 25 years later they get a phone call telling them that Bobby has been arrested for killing his father and before they can go through the whole family reunion Bobby goes on the run. Will he had straight back to the family he lost? Or has that little lost boy gone for ever?
I really like the narrator she builds up the feeling of guilt and tension well until you find yourself sat on the edge of your seat.
What is it like to go on living when you are only half of a whole? That is the dilemma facing Ricky and his mother Tabby. Ricky brother is kidnapped by an abusive father and is never seen again. That is until 25 years later they get a phone call telling them that Bobby has been arrested for killing his father and before they can go through the whole family reunion Bobby goes on the run. Will he had straight back to the family he lost? Or has that little lost boy gone for ever?
I really like the narrator she builds up the feeling of guilt and tension well until you find yourself sat on the edge of your seat.
December 25, 2017
Not sure what to say about this book other than it is a very heart wrenching story, it’s a good book but very tough to stomach.
There is quit a bit of rough language throughout so be aware.
And I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This story is about a young woman named Tabby who was miss treated by her mom, suffered at the hands of the foster care system, and became a user. Down on her luck Tabby ended up in a church where she meets Vaughn and they became close friends and a good thing to cause Tabby would need help with her babies and her addiction.. Then the unthinkable happens, one of her twin boys is kid napped by her ex and doesn’t hear anything about her son until he makes the news some 20 years later. Every thing falls apart after that and no one seems to knows how to make it stop. So many ups and downs and twists.
Michelle Babb has a gift for story telling and being able to adjust her voice to make each of the character sound as their own unique personality. I really enjoy listening to her.
There is quit a bit of rough language throughout so be aware.
And I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This story is about a young woman named Tabby who was miss treated by her mom, suffered at the hands of the foster care system, and became a user. Down on her luck Tabby ended up in a church where she meets Vaughn and they became close friends and a good thing to cause Tabby would need help with her babies and her addiction.. Then the unthinkable happens, one of her twin boys is kid napped by her ex and doesn’t hear anything about her son until he makes the news some 20 years later. Every thing falls apart after that and no one seems to knows how to make it stop. So many ups and downs and twists.
Michelle Babb has a gift for story telling and being able to adjust her voice to make each of the character sound as their own unique personality. I really enjoy listening to her.
January 17, 2019
I received this book from Michelle Babb, who narrated it, in exchange for an honest review.
Making Amends surprised me. Told from the point of view of the three main characters, it kept heavy subject matter lively and interesting, twisting and turning until the end. I will be looking into other books by Melinda Clayton.
I loved the narration. Michelle's voices and inflections brought the book to life. Her diction is crisp, easy to listen to, and enjoyable.
Michelle sent me this book a long time ago. I remember thinking it would be dense and I'd listen later. In going through my to-read shelf in Goodreads, I saw Making Amends again. I'm glad I decided to finally experience it.
Making Amends surprised me. Told from the point of view of the three main characters, it kept heavy subject matter lively and interesting, twisting and turning until the end. I will be looking into other books by Melinda Clayton.
I loved the narration. Michelle's voices and inflections brought the book to life. Her diction is crisp, easy to listen to, and enjoyable.
Michelle sent me this book a long time ago. I remember thinking it would be dense and I'd listen later. In going through my to-read shelf in Goodreads, I saw Making Amends again. I'm glad I decided to finally experience it.
December 17, 2020
Heartbreaking!💜
From the moment I started this story, I knew it was going to stir something within me, A sadness, a strength, a hope or all of the above. A moving story that will have you thinking about life, family and the what if’s.
The narration was absolutely amazing. The characters were brought to life in such a way that you feel like you know each one of them.
I highly recommend this book.
Sisters Spotlight 💜
From the moment I started this story, I knew it was going to stir something within me, A sadness, a strength, a hope or all of the above. A moving story that will have you thinking about life, family and the what if’s.
The narration was absolutely amazing. The characters were brought to life in such a way that you feel like you know each one of them.
I highly recommend this book.
Sisters Spotlight 💜
October 25, 2016
This novel gives a whole new meaning to the term "mirror twins". The mother's tale is one I heard often working in a charity hospital, and later in jails. The sons' tales are familiar to any social worker. Well written, and very thought-provoking.
Michelle Babb did entirely too well in voice interpreting this complex piece.
Michelle Babb did entirely too well in voice interpreting this complex piece.
September 6, 2022
I found this audiobook captivating. Once it started, I had to listen until the end in order to find out what happened in the story. The plot was haunting and also thought-provoking. The characters were poignant and complex. Michelle Babb's narration was great, and her performance added to the pathos of the story. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.
April 7, 2020
I loved listening to the audio version of this book. It is a emotional family drama with a great storyline. The narrator was brilliant and brought the characters and plot to life. The story was believable and easy to listen to. I would highly recommend this book.
December 20, 2020
I must say this was a very thought provoking book. So many times I wanted to stop reading, but I couldn’t. I did not see the ending coming. Good work.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2016
This is an engaging suspense drama with excellent narration. My rating 4.25.
Tabby was raised in the foster care system until she was booted to the streets when she reached 18. She was ripe to be caught in a downhill web of alcohol and drugs with the help of her dissolute, abusive husband, Vernon Clark. When Tabby learned she was pregnant…with twins no less…she managed to get clean for the pregnancy and delivery of two beautiful boys, Bobby and Ricky. Sadly, after they were born she fell back into bad habits. Tabby loved her boys but lived on the edge of consciousness.
Then, one morning when the boys were five years old their father swooped in and kidnapped Bobby. Tabby’s best friend, Von, shocked Tabby into sobriety for the sake of Ricky. But Tabby remained obsessed over the loss of her son. She got little help from the authorities to find him. Twenty-five years later the authorities finally found Bobby. He has made the news for being arrested for the murder of Vernon, his father.
Ricky works for a scandal sheet newspaper which specializes on getting the dirt on the periphery of the big news stories. Ricky knows his boss will be merciless in digging out the old family history on his mother and his brother’s kidnapping. Ricky would love to shield his mother but his co-workers tend to be relentless.
Tabby is anxious to get to Bobby and help him. She is sure that the killing was self-defense after years of abuse. Ricky will do what he can to help his mother and protect her although his own feelings about Bobby are mixed. Before Tabby and Ricky can arrive at the police station, Bobby has escaped. Now Ricky is even more conflicted not sure how his mother will cope with the pressure of the press and the renewed loss of her ‘first son’. Although she clearly loved Ricky somehow he was always “second place”.
I enjoyed the easy, natural flow of the writing style which is very straightforward. The story unfolds from alternating character perspectives by Tabby, Ricky and Von. Von is Tabby’s longtime friend and boss. As much as she wants to be there for Tabby, she has her hands full coping with and caring for her husband who is suffering from Alzheimer’s.
This is a fascinating and gripping portrayal of several issues including, addiction, loss of a child, and caring for an Alzheimer's patient. The book description hints at what may occur so parts are not completely surprising. However, the final resolution is a bit of a heart wrenching twist as Tabby decides she must make amends to her sons.
Drama’s are not my favorite genre and I wasn’t quite sure how I would react to the family drama aspect of this story. I was very glad to find that the combination of writing perspectives, psychological suspense and insightful narration made this an engrossing listen. I recommend this to readers who do like family drama with the added kick of suspense.
Audio Notes: Michelle Babb does a wonderful job with the narration of this story. She manages to convey the personalities of the characters that adds to the interest and suspense. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of this gripping story.
I received this audio from the narrator through Audiobook Blast (now Audiobook Boom) for an honest review.
Tabby was raised in the foster care system until she was booted to the streets when she reached 18. She was ripe to be caught in a downhill web of alcohol and drugs with the help of her dissolute, abusive husband, Vernon Clark. When Tabby learned she was pregnant…with twins no less…she managed to get clean for the pregnancy and delivery of two beautiful boys, Bobby and Ricky. Sadly, after they were born she fell back into bad habits. Tabby loved her boys but lived on the edge of consciousness.
Then, one morning when the boys were five years old their father swooped in and kidnapped Bobby. Tabby’s best friend, Von, shocked Tabby into sobriety for the sake of Ricky. But Tabby remained obsessed over the loss of her son. She got little help from the authorities to find him. Twenty-five years later the authorities finally found Bobby. He has made the news for being arrested for the murder of Vernon, his father.
Ricky works for a scandal sheet newspaper which specializes on getting the dirt on the periphery of the big news stories. Ricky knows his boss will be merciless in digging out the old family history on his mother and his brother’s kidnapping. Ricky would love to shield his mother but his co-workers tend to be relentless.
Tabby is anxious to get to Bobby and help him. She is sure that the killing was self-defense after years of abuse. Ricky will do what he can to help his mother and protect her although his own feelings about Bobby are mixed. Before Tabby and Ricky can arrive at the police station, Bobby has escaped. Now Ricky is even more conflicted not sure how his mother will cope with the pressure of the press and the renewed loss of her ‘first son’. Although she clearly loved Ricky somehow he was always “second place”.
I enjoyed the easy, natural flow of the writing style which is very straightforward. The story unfolds from alternating character perspectives by Tabby, Ricky and Von. Von is Tabby’s longtime friend and boss. As much as she wants to be there for Tabby, she has her hands full coping with and caring for her husband who is suffering from Alzheimer’s.
This is a fascinating and gripping portrayal of several issues including, addiction, loss of a child, and caring for an Alzheimer's patient. The book description hints at what may occur so parts are not completely surprising. However, the final resolution is a bit of a heart wrenching twist as Tabby decides she must make amends to her sons.
Drama’s are not my favorite genre and I wasn’t quite sure how I would react to the family drama aspect of this story. I was very glad to find that the combination of writing perspectives, psychological suspense and insightful narration made this an engrossing listen. I recommend this to readers who do like family drama with the added kick of suspense.
Audio Notes: Michelle Babb does a wonderful job with the narration of this story. She manages to convey the personalities of the characters that adds to the interest and suspense. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of this gripping story.
I received this audio from the narrator through Audiobook Blast (now Audiobook Boom) for an honest review.
April 7, 2016
"I believe this is worth listening to..." Or, of course, reading...
Initially, I had found the story convoluted and slow in getting anywhere, in reaching a climax. But then once it began getting started, it really got started almost like an unpredictable engine. You just couldn't see where it was going, or even if it would start, at all. This is quite a talent, Clayton's ability to create an unforseen plot, yet one which was subtly forshadowed was a thrill (to see unfold.)
And the drama significantly thickens, through the characters when they make their own speculations. I rather liked the foreshadowing element, where the characters say something along the lines of 'looking back, after experiencing the consequence of this very decision, I would wish I had fully considered my options.' Maybe it's just me, but I wished I could shake them and demand they tell me what the consequence- the end-was. And what an end it was! Let us just say: a thriller is not a thriller without bloodshed, death and corruption. And what an exceptional thriller this was, whoever said 'one is innocent, until proven guilty' should rethink their words, the proof speaks for itself, and always comes out, it's not for a judge's verdict to decide.
The narrator, who has since become a favourite, was suited well for this book. Her voice, alone, built up tension. A wise, reflective and mature voice: suited very well for every character. It was how you imagine a story being told, particularly a horrific story, it always sounds more terrifying if the voice creates the ominous atmosphere. Michelle Babb's voice created just that: an older voice always signifies regrets, tragedy and experience, far better than a joyful (which is barely disguised) youthful voice.
What I most enjoyed was the bitter back stories of the twins and their mother. Hell, I even enjoyed Veronica and Ben's lively love story it distracted from the darker undertones. In the same way, I liked that Veronica and Tabby's strong friendship, could survive all problems. That, and the way that nothing is what it seems: for one thing, who would've thought a reunion between a mother and her long-lost son would have ended the way it did?
I received this through Audio book Blast.
Initially, I had found the story convoluted and slow in getting anywhere, in reaching a climax. But then once it began getting started, it really got started almost like an unpredictable engine. You just couldn't see where it was going, or even if it would start, at all. This is quite a talent, Clayton's ability to create an unforseen plot, yet one which was subtly forshadowed was a thrill (to see unfold.)
And the drama significantly thickens, through the characters when they make their own speculations. I rather liked the foreshadowing element, where the characters say something along the lines of 'looking back, after experiencing the consequence of this very decision, I would wish I had fully considered my options.' Maybe it's just me, but I wished I could shake them and demand they tell me what the consequence- the end-was. And what an end it was! Let us just say: a thriller is not a thriller without bloodshed, death and corruption. And what an exceptional thriller this was, whoever said 'one is innocent, until proven guilty' should rethink their words, the proof speaks for itself, and always comes out, it's not for a judge's verdict to decide.
The narrator, who has since become a favourite, was suited well for this book. Her voice, alone, built up tension. A wise, reflective and mature voice: suited very well for every character. It was how you imagine a story being told, particularly a horrific story, it always sounds more terrifying if the voice creates the ominous atmosphere. Michelle Babb's voice created just that: an older voice always signifies regrets, tragedy and experience, far better than a joyful (which is barely disguised) youthful voice.
What I most enjoyed was the bitter back stories of the twins and their mother. Hell, I even enjoyed Veronica and Ben's lively love story it distracted from the darker undertones. In the same way, I liked that Veronica and Tabby's strong friendship, could survive all problems. That, and the way that nothing is what it seems: for one thing, who would've thought a reunion between a mother and her long-lost son would have ended the way it did?
I received this through Audio book Blast.
March 31, 2016
When I finished Making Amends by Melinda Clayton, I found myself sitting and trying to process the book I had just completed; I even discussed it with my husband. This heartbreaking but interesting book is an unflinching look at how not all lives are happy, how those who should be the most loving and protective of someone can fall far short, and how the fallout from substance abuse can last a lifetime. Tabby Clark spent her childhood first with a drug-addled mother and then in a series of foster homes. Ultimately she ends up strung out on drugs, married to a mean, similarly addicted man, and pregnant with twins. The pregnancy is the catalyst for her to get off the drugs, though she struggles with alcohol until the boys are five, at which time her ex-husband kidnaps one of the twins. Tabby spends the next 25 years yearning and grieving for the lost twin, sometimes overlooking the remaining twin. In a case of "be careful what you wish for," Tabby is reunited with the lost twin.
The story is told from three distinctly different perspectives: that of Tabby, her best friend Vonn, and her son, Ricky. The different perspectives really flesh out the not just Tabby, but other characters in the book. Ben is an especially appealing; wise and warm.
I found the book to be engrossing and I kept my earbuds in more often than usual in an effort to learn how the story would be resolved.
Michelle Babb did an excellent job of bringing the characters to life and giving each a clear voice. Her narration added depth to the story.
I recommend this book, not only because I found it interesting, but because I found it enlightening; it brought a world that was previously unfamiliar to me to life. Four and a half stars.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.
The story is told from three distinctly different perspectives: that of Tabby, her best friend Vonn, and her son, Ricky. The different perspectives really flesh out the not just Tabby, but other characters in the book. Ben is an especially appealing; wise and warm.
I found the book to be engrossing and I kept my earbuds in more often than usual in an effort to learn how the story would be resolved.
Michelle Babb did an excellent job of bringing the characters to life and giving each a clear voice. Her narration added depth to the story.
I recommend this book, not only because I found it interesting, but because I found it enlightening; it brought a world that was previously unfamiliar to me to life. Four and a half stars.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.
April 16, 2016
•••I listened to the Audible Audio Edition of this book•••
This was an amazing performance by Michelle Babb! She brought each character to life in blaring color. I felt their pain and fear as well as their happiness and uncertainty. I was sucked into the story so completly I could not stop listening... Even when I was convinced I was not going to like where it led. I truly enjoyed the experience though I don't normally partake of anything near as tragic. She made this well worth the listen :)
‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›
What Really Matters In The End
This is a stand alone novel.
Tabby is an addict who was abused and abandoned by her mother to be shuttled around the foster system until she aged out... This did not give her any level of self worth or any skills for coping with reality or responsibility. Verne was no better... Probably worse since he was abusive and an addict as well. Finding out she was pregnant while high on cocaine made Tabby get sober. If only to protect her unborn children. Eventually she became a drunk though, until the fateful day her ex stole Bobby away from her when he was only five. She still had her "sister" Von and his twin Ricky but she alawys grieved Bobby. Missing him consumed her life... Made her be less to Ricky than he deserved. Finding out that Bobby is in Tampa, has killed his father and is under arrest has to be the biggest shock of her life since he was taken from her. Will she be able to have a successful reunion withe her missing boy? Will she be able to make amends? Or is it too late for them all?
***This book is suitable for adult readers who enjoy flawed characters struggling with a painful past and is filled with plenty of drama, horror, suspense, mystery and poignant moments :)
This was an amazing performance by Michelle Babb! She brought each character to life in blaring color. I felt their pain and fear as well as their happiness and uncertainty. I was sucked into the story so completly I could not stop listening... Even when I was convinced I was not going to like where it led. I truly enjoyed the experience though I don't normally partake of anything near as tragic. She made this well worth the listen :)
‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›‹›
What Really Matters In The End
This is a stand alone novel.
Tabby is an addict who was abused and abandoned by her mother to be shuttled around the foster system until she aged out... This did not give her any level of self worth or any skills for coping with reality or responsibility. Verne was no better... Probably worse since he was abusive and an addict as well. Finding out she was pregnant while high on cocaine made Tabby get sober. If only to protect her unborn children. Eventually she became a drunk though, until the fateful day her ex stole Bobby away from her when he was only five. She still had her "sister" Von and his twin Ricky but she alawys grieved Bobby. Missing him consumed her life... Made her be less to Ricky than he deserved. Finding out that Bobby is in Tampa, has killed his father and is under arrest has to be the biggest shock of her life since he was taken from her. Will she be able to have a successful reunion withe her missing boy? Will she be able to make amends? Or is it too late for them all?
***This book is suitable for adult readers who enjoy flawed characters struggling with a painful past and is filled with plenty of drama, horror, suspense, mystery and poignant moments :)
March 30, 2016
I was given this audio book in exchange for an honest review.
I waited a couple of days to do this review so that the story could soak in a little better. I was really left with mixed feelings. This is a pretty dark story. The story deals with two different families that are friends. It takes place 25 years after Tabby's family has been torn apart when the abusive father of her twin boys kidnaps one of them (Bobby) and disappears. Tabby, who's life has been riddled with drugs and alcohol eventually gets sober after the event leaves her alone with Ricky, but constantly longing for the child she no longer has. Although Ricky was the only child she had left to raise, he long ago accepted the fact that Bobby was always foremost in his mother's thoughts. The events had a lasting negative impact on his life.
Bobby, now 30 years old is suddenly in the news when he is arrested for murder and then escapes. Will Tabby's heart have her willingly aid her dangerous son or will she suddenly see the light and try to rectify things to show Ricky that he's important and that she values him?
The other family in the book owns the plant nursery where Tabby works. The husband, Ben, suffers from Alzheimer's. Ms. Clayton's portrayal of the disease was very realistic, sensitive and touching. She has a great handle on expressing the emotions of the characters in this book. Each chapter is from the view point of a single character and written in first person It was an interesting and effective writing method for this story.
The performance by Ms. Babb was great. Her voices for the different characters tend to enrich the picture you get in your head for each individual character.
I waited a couple of days to do this review so that the story could soak in a little better. I was really left with mixed feelings. This is a pretty dark story. The story deals with two different families that are friends. It takes place 25 years after Tabby's family has been torn apart when the abusive father of her twin boys kidnaps one of them (Bobby) and disappears. Tabby, who's life has been riddled with drugs and alcohol eventually gets sober after the event leaves her alone with Ricky, but constantly longing for the child she no longer has. Although Ricky was the only child she had left to raise, he long ago accepted the fact that Bobby was always foremost in his mother's thoughts. The events had a lasting negative impact on his life.
Bobby, now 30 years old is suddenly in the news when he is arrested for murder and then escapes. Will Tabby's heart have her willingly aid her dangerous son or will she suddenly see the light and try to rectify things to show Ricky that he's important and that she values him?
The other family in the book owns the plant nursery where Tabby works. The husband, Ben, suffers from Alzheimer's. Ms. Clayton's portrayal of the disease was very realistic, sensitive and touching. She has a great handle on expressing the emotions of the characters in this book. Each chapter is from the view point of a single character and written in first person It was an interesting and effective writing method for this story.
The performance by Ms. Babb was great. Her voices for the different characters tend to enrich the picture you get in your head for each individual character.
November 15, 2015
I delayed writing this review because I needed time to think about the story. This is one of those books that stay with you. I honestly feel as if my review and words cannot express how much this story touched me.
This wasn't a sweet happily ever after book but is life really like that anyway? Each character had their own flaws, happiness, disappointments, grief and hope just like so many other people do.
We meet two families who have and have had problems in the past. The author has the chapters written by the different characters and I loved how that works out. It made you see each person's thoughts and feelings concerning what was going on. You will feel as if you know the characters and will connect to the turmoil that they are going through. And I have to say I loved dear Ben best of all.
I don't want to say too much about the story and ruin it for anyone. This was a new author for me and I will definitely read more of her books. You will anxiously turn the pages because each chapter ends with that characters thoughts and you can't wait to see who is next and what they have to say. Almost like a cliff hanger ending chapter until you reach the next chapter by that person. Really different and unique.
This is a heart wrenching story that will touch you deeply. It is one that I highly recommend!
* I received this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. This review is my honest opinion.
This wasn't a sweet happily ever after book but is life really like that anyway? Each character had their own flaws, happiness, disappointments, grief and hope just like so many other people do.
We meet two families who have and have had problems in the past. The author has the chapters written by the different characters and I loved how that works out. It made you see each person's thoughts and feelings concerning what was going on. You will feel as if you know the characters and will connect to the turmoil that they are going through. And I have to say I loved dear Ben best of all.
I don't want to say too much about the story and ruin it for anyone. This was a new author for me and I will definitely read more of her books. You will anxiously turn the pages because each chapter ends with that characters thoughts and you can't wait to see who is next and what they have to say. Almost like a cliff hanger ending chapter until you reach the next chapter by that person. Really different and unique.
This is a heart wrenching story that will touch you deeply. It is one that I highly recommend!
* I received this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. This review is my honest opinion.
April 26, 2016
Making Amends, by Melinda Clayton is an intensely stirring and ultimately heartbreaking story. A story of the consequences of one's choices and experiences. A story of a family torn apart and yet somehow the remnant has strength and tenacity. Clayton brings out the importance of strong friendships, forgiveness and family. The ninth step in the Alcohol Anonymous 12 Step program is making amends...is it possible there are times when making amends is not achievable? What if circumstances, both past and present, are not in one's control and atonement is impossible? A mother's love, twins, kidnapping and murder, Clayton has taken them and mixed them into a compelling story with evocative characters.
Michelle Babb does a wonderful job of narrating the audiobook, bringing unique individuality to each of the characters.
I received a copy of this audiobook from the narrator, Michelle Babb, in exchange for an honest review.
Michelle Babb does a wonderful job of narrating the audiobook, bringing unique individuality to each of the characters.
I received a copy of this audiobook from the narrator, Michelle Babb, in exchange for an honest review.
September 24, 2016
Rating 3.5
This book is a suspenseful family drama. A twin boy shows up 25 years after he was kidnapped by his abusive father. Unfortunately, his mother and twin brother only find him because he is arrested for murdering his father. This book deals with the concepts of addiction, nature vs. nurture, and family bonds.
The story is told from the POV of Tabby, the mother; Von, her best friend; and Ricky, the twin who was not kidnapped. I appreciated the author's compassionate portrayal of the three main characters; especially Tabby who was flawed, but trying to do her best after a tragic past and under heart wrenching circumstances. The suspense of the book kept me on edge until the end. It did have heavy foreshadowing, which knocked it down 1/2 a star for me.
I listened on Audible and thought the narrator did a good job of differentiating characters and portraying the emotion of the story.
I was gifted this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book is a suspenseful family drama. A twin boy shows up 25 years after he was kidnapped by his abusive father. Unfortunately, his mother and twin brother only find him because he is arrested for murdering his father. This book deals with the concepts of addiction, nature vs. nurture, and family bonds.
The story is told from the POV of Tabby, the mother; Von, her best friend; and Ricky, the twin who was not kidnapped. I appreciated the author's compassionate portrayal of the three main characters; especially Tabby who was flawed, but trying to do her best after a tragic past and under heart wrenching circumstances. The suspense of the book kept me on edge until the end. It did have heavy foreshadowing, which knocked it down 1/2 a star for me.
I listened on Audible and thought the narrator did a good job of differentiating characters and portraying the emotion of the story.
I was gifted this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2016
Making Amends is a very good story. It is heart warming and heart wrenching at the same time. I thought the character development was very good and I liked the characters quite a bit and cared about what happened to them. The book really delved into several different human and psychological issues that affect so many people, including alcohol, drug, emotional and sexual abuse. Making Amends is suspenseful and intriguing. It held my attention throughout. My preference however would have been to have it end differently.
I listened to the Audible version of this book, which I received in exchange for an honest review, and the narration was fabulous! The narrator was able to bring the various characters to life with different voices and intonations.
All in all, a very good book which I am happy to have read and I would highly recommend.
I listened to the Audible version of this book, which I received in exchange for an honest review, and the narration was fabulous! The narrator was able to bring the various characters to life with different voices and intonations.
All in all, a very good book which I am happy to have read and I would highly recommend.
September 22, 2016
While I don't usually enjoy stories told from multiple perspectives, I have to admit that it really worked in this case. It kind of reminded me of the podcast Serial and how all the perspectives combine to tell this fascinatingly complex story. But it's so hard to support Tammy because she has made so many mistakes, but that's why it's so interesting when you do hope good things happen to her. Ben and Von are such good characters and I would love to learn more about them.
Michelle Babb does another amazing job narrating. I knew she was great at narrating cozy mysteries, but this book proves she narrate damn near anything as long as it has heart to it.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
Michelle Babb does another amazing job narrating. I knew she was great at narrating cozy mysteries, but this book proves she narrate damn near anything as long as it has heart to it.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
September 29, 2016
Disclaimer - got this book for free in exchange for a review
This was a very interesting and compelling book. It was slow in the beginning but picked up as it went along. Vaughn was the strength in that family but could not save the day. Best character in the story. This is a tragic tale of a family ruined repeatedly due to substance abuse. Glad the one son sort of survived. Tabby the mother was rather pitiful.. I would have called the police immediately.
The narrator did a good job with the different voices..the southernish accents were fun.. except I did get confused as to which character was talking sometimes.
This story takes place in my neck of the woods so I enjoyed that feature.
This was a very interesting and compelling book. It was slow in the beginning but picked up as it went along. Vaughn was the strength in that family but could not save the day. Best character in the story. This is a tragic tale of a family ruined repeatedly due to substance abuse. Glad the one son sort of survived. Tabby the mother was rather pitiful.. I would have called the police immediately.
The narrator did a good job with the different voices..the southernish accents were fun.. except I did get confused as to which character was talking sometimes.
This story takes place in my neck of the woods so I enjoyed that feature.
September 9, 2015
This is a deeply moving book. The lives of two families intertwine around a tragic kidnapping, enduring the pain through the years in their own ways. We feel what they feel as each character takes a chapter. We live their experiences with them since they are so fully drawn, so believable, flawed, perfect, and real. I'll leave it here, without spoilers, hoping you'll be inspired to experience this exceptional book for yourself.
March 20, 2016
"This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of Audiobook Blast."
This book spins the tale of dysfunctional families, altering between present and past. There is plenty of mystery and suspense from the start to finish. I had to listen in one go, because it drew me in.
The narration was well done, The characters were excellently portrayed as always, by the remarkable Michelle Babb!
This book spins the tale of dysfunctional families, altering between present and past. There is plenty of mystery and suspense from the start to finish. I had to listen in one go, because it drew me in.
The narration was well done, The characters were excellently portrayed as always, by the remarkable Michelle Babb!
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