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Devil in the Dust
June 1933
Their small Oklahoma town is dying. Lillian remembers how acres and acres of wheat once waved under jewel-blue skies. Now the dirt stretches across the flat land as far as she can see.
Emma's husband is missing. She keeps house, keeps her five children fed as best as she can, and keeps smiling as her hope fades. But when the days stretch to weeks, she faces the possibility that he will never come home. Left with the likelihood of losing their farm, and the ever-present pangs of hunger, she is forced to consider opportunities that, under normal circumstances, she would never contemplate.
Jessie, Emma's oldest daughter, completes her tasks as if numb. Forced to wear her mother's shoes to avoid the humiliation of bare feet, she watches the dead, dirt road for signs of life.
And then he comes.
His new car and shiny shoes and generous way with gifts and money catch Jessie's eye, much to the dismay of her mother … and much to the concern of the minister's wife, Lillian. He's too smooth, too willing to help, and much too eager to spend time with a girl less than half his age. But who is to say he is not the miracle they all prayed for?
Their small Oklahoma town is dying. Lillian remembers how acres and acres of wheat once waved under jewel-blue skies. Now the dirt stretches across the flat land as far as she can see.
Emma's husband is missing. She keeps house, keeps her five children fed as best as she can, and keeps smiling as her hope fades. But when the days stretch to weeks, she faces the possibility that he will never come home. Left with the likelihood of losing their farm, and the ever-present pangs of hunger, she is forced to consider opportunities that, under normal circumstances, she would never contemplate.
Jessie, Emma's oldest daughter, completes her tasks as if numb. Forced to wear her mother's shoes to avoid the humiliation of bare feet, she watches the dead, dirt road for signs of life.
And then he comes.
His new car and shiny shoes and generous way with gifts and money catch Jessie's eye, much to the dismay of her mother … and much to the concern of the minister's wife, Lillian. He's too smooth, too willing to help, and much too eager to spend time with a girl less than half his age. But who is to say he is not the miracle they all prayed for?
303 pages, Paperback
Published April 3, 2017
111 people are currently reading
354 people want to read
About the author
Cara Luecht
9 books92 followersAward winning author, Cara Luecht, lives in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin with her husband, David, and their children. In addition to freelance writing and marketing, Cara works as an English Instructor for a local college. Cara graduated summa cum laude with a B.A. in English Literature from the University of Wisconsin and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Currently, Cara is studying for her Masters in Divinity at Fuller Theological Seminary.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
July 11, 2019
This story is about the trials and tribulations of the Owens family and the small town in the Oklahoma panhandle that they live in during the Dust Bowl years. (1930 - 1936)
I didn't notice that the genre was Christian Fiction until I'd received a free Audible credit in exchange for an honest review of the book. This isn't normally a genre that I gravitate toward, but the Christian element was handled with a light hand. It did not overpower the story.
I felt that the story was just a tad bit long. There are many, many scenes about having to sweep up dust from everywhere; placing wet clothes over noses and mouths; coughing up dust, etc. Most parts of the book were as brown and dreary as the surroundings and the era being described. If that was the author's intent, then the book was a success. I was weighed down by the unending hopelessness of the town, and the people.
This is a coming of age story, a murder mystery and a hero story about battling against all odds.
I listened to the audio version of the book, and there were a few production issues. Sometimes the narration sounded muted, and like the narrator was speaking from a long distance. Once it awhile while trying to produce a Southern accent (I think) the narrator sounded a bit like she was speaking around rocks in her mouth. The diction wasn't the clearest, and the pacing was a bit slow for me. Towards the end I turned up the narration speed to 1.20, and that improved the listening experience for me.
I didn't notice that the genre was Christian Fiction until I'd received a free Audible credit in exchange for an honest review of the book. This isn't normally a genre that I gravitate toward, but the Christian element was handled with a light hand. It did not overpower the story.
I felt that the story was just a tad bit long. There are many, many scenes about having to sweep up dust from everywhere; placing wet clothes over noses and mouths; coughing up dust, etc. Most parts of the book were as brown and dreary as the surroundings and the era being described. If that was the author's intent, then the book was a success. I was weighed down by the unending hopelessness of the town, and the people.
This is a coming of age story, a murder mystery and a hero story about battling against all odds.
I listened to the audio version of the book, and there were a few production issues. Sometimes the narration sounded muted, and like the narrator was speaking from a long distance. Once it awhile while trying to produce a Southern accent (I think) the narrator sounded a bit like she was speaking around rocks in her mouth. The diction wasn't the clearest, and the pacing was a bit slow for me. Towards the end I turned up the narration speed to 1.20, and that improved the listening experience for me.
October 10, 2017
It's Oklahoma in 1933 - the Dust Bowl. It has not rained in a very long time, which means the crops in this small, farming village refuse to grow. It has been three years of dust everywhere and no new crops, and people are beginning to give up hope. Farms are mortgaged, debts increase, people starve, and the banks begin foreclosing. It is the perfect time for a rich entrepreneur to come in and buy out the tiny farms ... which is exactly what happens. The question is, is he the good, kind man he appears to be? Or a devil in disguise?
Devil in the Dust was very interesting. It presented the realities of the Dust Bowl, which corresponded with the Great Depression in the United States. So many farms were deserted because the families who ran them ceased to have the money to eat, much less keep up a dying farm. This book features several of those families: Lillian, the gossipy wife to the downtrodden pastor. Emma, a mother of five kids whose husband is missing. And Jessie, Emma's fifteen-year-old daughter whose head is turned by the rich newcomer.
The tone of the story was on the sad side for most of the novel. The characters were penniless, and there was little hope in sight. Jessie was taken with the newcomer, which went against her mother's and Lillian's better judgement. The book asked the question: Is it right to do something non-positive in order to achieve something good? In this situation, Jessie was considering marrying the newcomer because of the money he would provide for her family and the escape it would give her. No, she would not marry for love, but for all appearances, he was a decent man who did good things. The problem was that Jessie faced two terrible options: marry for convenience but take care of her family or forgo the marriage and watch your family go hungry. It is a difficult decision and one the book addresses well.
One thing I didn't like about this novel was that one of the characters was presented as being evil basically since birth. I do believe everyone is born with a sinful nature; but people are taught since childhood what is good and lawful and what is not. They don't wake up in the morning one day and say, "I'm going to murder my wife," but neither are they permanently screwed up since birth. Everyone changes, everyone grows, whether for good and for evil. Everyone is mixture of both. But this particular character was represented as being a bit screwed up and evil all his life with no good in him. That I did not like.
I enjoyed Devil in the Dust and I recommend it to fans of Christian historical fiction.
I received a complementary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Devil in the Dust was very interesting. It presented the realities of the Dust Bowl, which corresponded with the Great Depression in the United States. So many farms were deserted because the families who ran them ceased to have the money to eat, much less keep up a dying farm. This book features several of those families: Lillian, the gossipy wife to the downtrodden pastor. Emma, a mother of five kids whose husband is missing. And Jessie, Emma's fifteen-year-old daughter whose head is turned by the rich newcomer.
The tone of the story was on the sad side for most of the novel. The characters were penniless, and there was little hope in sight. Jessie was taken with the newcomer, which went against her mother's and Lillian's better judgement. The book asked the question: Is it right to do something non-positive in order to achieve something good? In this situation, Jessie was considering marrying the newcomer because of the money he would provide for her family and the escape it would give her. No, she would not marry for love, but for all appearances, he was a decent man who did good things. The problem was that Jessie faced two terrible options: marry for convenience but take care of her family or forgo the marriage and watch your family go hungry. It is a difficult decision and one the book addresses well.
One thing I didn't like about this novel was that one of the characters was presented as being evil basically since birth. I do believe everyone is born with a sinful nature; but people are taught since childhood what is good and lawful and what is not. They don't wake up in the morning one day and say, "I'm going to murder my wife," but neither are they permanently screwed up since birth. Everyone changes, everyone grows, whether for good and for evil. Everyone is mixture of both. But this particular character was represented as being a bit screwed up and evil all his life with no good in him. That I did not like.
I enjoyed Devil in the Dust and I recommend it to fans of Christian historical fiction.
I received a complementary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
October 13, 2017
4.5 stars
Devil in the Dust is richly written with many layers and a thread of hope in the midst of sobering realities. In fact you can almost feel the grit of the dust in your teeth and on your skin, so vividly does Luecht set the scene.
The three women whose perspectives carry the story are at once heartbreaking and inspiring, their fierce will to survive partnering with the soul-weariness of their situations. I grieved with them on several occasions, my heart so touched by the hopelessness that invaded their community.
Devil in the Dust is really a story of hope, despite its bleak subject and plot turns. It’s a reminder that hope in anything (or anyone) besides Jesus will disappoint us. Sometimes bitterly and painfully so. Only a hope grounded in Him becomes a battle cry with a sure victory. Even if nothing around you changes, He is faithful. This isn’t an easy truth to hear … or to embrace … when life is hard. But their story inspires me to cling to this promise: “I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart, and wait for the Lord.” (Psalm 27:13-14)
Bottom Line: Devil in the Dust by Cara Luecht completely captivates you and hits all your emotions. The setting and characters are so vividly drawn that you feel as though you are there in their midst. Luecht seamlessly incorporates a heartbreaking time in Midwest US history and points readers to the only One who can give us strength to face our worst-case scenarios. A riveting read on every level!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
Devil in the Dust is richly written with many layers and a thread of hope in the midst of sobering realities. In fact you can almost feel the grit of the dust in your teeth and on your skin, so vividly does Luecht set the scene.
The three women whose perspectives carry the story are at once heartbreaking and inspiring, their fierce will to survive partnering with the soul-weariness of their situations. I grieved with them on several occasions, my heart so touched by the hopelessness that invaded their community.
Devil in the Dust is really a story of hope, despite its bleak subject and plot turns. It’s a reminder that hope in anything (or anyone) besides Jesus will disappoint us. Sometimes bitterly and painfully so. Only a hope grounded in Him becomes a battle cry with a sure victory. Even if nothing around you changes, He is faithful. This isn’t an easy truth to hear … or to embrace … when life is hard. But their story inspires me to cling to this promise: “I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart, and wait for the Lord.” (Psalm 27:13-14)
Bottom Line: Devil in the Dust by Cara Luecht completely captivates you and hits all your emotions. The setting and characters are so vividly drawn that you feel as though you are there in their midst. Luecht seamlessly incorporates a heartbreaking time in Midwest US history and points readers to the only One who can give us strength to face our worst-case scenarios. A riveting read on every level!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
October 20, 2017
I could not put this down. I will say that you better not be looking for a feel good story in this one. It is a sad story about what people felt like during the dust bowl of 1933. This has a bit of suspense also. This really shows what some people must have felt like during the dust bowl. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
October 25, 2017
I snapped this one up for free on Amazon. I don't hold much hope on a lot of these freebies, but this one was a pleasant surprise. Where has this author been all my life? I couldn't put this book down! It was so well written, the characters were all so well done, I could feel the grit and dirt and smell the heat of the Oklahoma dust bowl. I could feel the hopelessness and desperation of these families struggling to survive against insurmountable odds. A truly compelling and dark story and so good I finished it in 2 days. I will be looking for more by Ms. Luecht.
October 20, 2017
Devil in the Dust takes us to a time and place of desperation and no hope for the future. In 1933 the families left of a small and now ghost like Oklahoma town see no end in sight to the horrible drought and famine that has come to their once rich farmland. By the time this story opens up, the dust storms have been going on for a few years now and have affected everyone. Some have packed up and moved away hoping for a better life in California, others have just disappeared.
That is where we find the Owens family, Emma and Jessie her oldest daughter, are waiting for Henry Owen to come back. Emma holds out hope that her husband has not abandoned her and their children. Across the street Pastor Peter and his wife Lillian do their best for their dwindling congregation that needs to be reminded that they have not been forgotten by God in this barren land.
Enter Randall Mitchell driving into town in a new car with fancy clothes and money to spend. Taking an interest in 16 year old Jessie, whom he is at least twice her age, not only gave everyone pause in the story but also gave me the creeps. Emma and Lillian definitely have qualms about him.
This was a well written novel that really puts you in the dust bowl and surrounds you with an atmospheric read, which felt almost like the dirt itself was an evil foreboding presence. We are treated to the viewpoints of Peter, Lillian, Emma, Jessie, and Randall along with a few of the other townspeople. This gave the story a very well rounded look at what was going on.
I pulled some interesting observations from this story. One was this, was this curse on the land due to the previous treatment of the Native Americans? And I really saw how much that self-reliant culture’s pride took a beating when they accepted or when they refused to accept help.
Though this story touched on a dark time and subjects, I did enjoy the reading of that time in history and the author’s writing. I look forward to more of the author’s stories.
I received a copy of this book for free. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
That is where we find the Owens family, Emma and Jessie her oldest daughter, are waiting for Henry Owen to come back. Emma holds out hope that her husband has not abandoned her and their children. Across the street Pastor Peter and his wife Lillian do their best for their dwindling congregation that needs to be reminded that they have not been forgotten by God in this barren land.
Enter Randall Mitchell driving into town in a new car with fancy clothes and money to spend. Taking an interest in 16 year old Jessie, whom he is at least twice her age, not only gave everyone pause in the story but also gave me the creeps. Emma and Lillian definitely have qualms about him.
This was a well written novel that really puts you in the dust bowl and surrounds you with an atmospheric read, which felt almost like the dirt itself was an evil foreboding presence. We are treated to the viewpoints of Peter, Lillian, Emma, Jessie, and Randall along with a few of the other townspeople. This gave the story a very well rounded look at what was going on.
I pulled some interesting observations from this story. One was this, was this curse on the land due to the previous treatment of the Native Americans? And I really saw how much that self-reliant culture’s pride took a beating when they accepted or when they refused to accept help.
Though this story touched on a dark time and subjects, I did enjoy the reading of that time in history and the author’s writing. I look forward to more of the author’s stories.
I received a copy of this book for free. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
July 6, 2020
Devil in the Dust is set in a small town in Oklahoma in 1933. A severe drought has been going on for 3 years and it is the time of the 'Dust Bowl.' Although I have read descriptions of the conditions people lived in during that time and even seen photographs of the dust storms, Luecht definitely brings it to life in the day to day life of people from the farmers who have lost everything, the townspeople who are barely hanging on, and a small town minister who struggles to find a message of hope to give. Her descriptions of the never ending task of trying to keep up with the constant dirt all over everything even inside their homes made it seem even more real to me. The hopelessness and despair of the characters was realistically portrayed. However, at the end of the story, the reader sees evidence of strength and hope that have persevered.
The story focuses on a family, a minister and his wife, and a stranger who comes to town. The Owens family with 5 children is especially struggling since Henry, the husband and father has been missing since he left on a trip. Jessie, the teenaged daughter who turns 16 during the novel faces a very difficult decision---one which she sees as the only hope to save her family. Peter, the minister, and his wife Lillian deeply care about the people and do all that they can to try to help them. I felt the author's development of Peter's character was very well done in that she showed his love for the people, the pain he felt in witnessing their difficulties, and his desire to bring hope but struggling to find it himself at times. The stranger who comes to town is probably the epitome of the deceitfulness of the devil in Christan beliefs.
This book does have spiritual messages woven in it through the passages involving the minister Peter but it is not an 'evangelistic' book. The spiritual messages were general principles of trusting God.
I highly recommend it to readers of historical fiction and especially to those who enjoy reading about the dust bowl time in our country.
The story focuses on a family, a minister and his wife, and a stranger who comes to town. The Owens family with 5 children is especially struggling since Henry, the husband and father has been missing since he left on a trip. Jessie, the teenaged daughter who turns 16 during the novel faces a very difficult decision---one which she sees as the only hope to save her family. Peter, the minister, and his wife Lillian deeply care about the people and do all that they can to try to help them. I felt the author's development of Peter's character was very well done in that she showed his love for the people, the pain he felt in witnessing their difficulties, and his desire to bring hope but struggling to find it himself at times. The stranger who comes to town is probably the epitome of the deceitfulness of the devil in Christan beliefs.
This book does have spiritual messages woven in it through the passages involving the minister Peter but it is not an 'evangelistic' book. The spiritual messages were general principles of trusting God.
I highly recommend it to readers of historical fiction and especially to those who enjoy reading about the dust bowl time in our country.
October 2, 2017
Travel back to the dust storms of 193o’s in Devil in the Dust. The vivid scenes of what happened during this time has the readers right in the midst of the winds and dust seeping into their homes, pores, and every open area. Luecht’s research of this period came to life on the pages. The struggles, trying to survive, determination, faith, and hardship of the residents kept the story flowing. I admired the young dedicated minister and his wife, Peter and Lillian, which was woven into the story. They endeavored to care for each one in their small town from the government supplies they received and support from back East. The love and caring attitude of Emma to keep her family together and taken care of showed her fortitude to endure the storms of life. The unexpected arrival of Randall Mitchell and his flashy ways added unexpected twists and turns to keep the pages turning. Will he gain what he came for or was there a hidden motive? Readers of historical fiction will enjoy Devil in the Dust filled with realistic survival that was needed during the drought stricken years of America.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author and Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write a positive review but have expressed my honest thoughts.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author and Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write a positive review but have expressed my honest thoughts.
July 13, 2017
Vivid imagery abounds in this well-researched and well-written historical novel. It’s the first one I’ve read pertaining to the Dust Bowl. Luecht does a wonderful job of educating the reader on the conditions of the time. The cover is a great fit for the tale. I enjoyed the fact that the romance angle wasn’t overwhelming. Instead, the larger focus is on survival and faith. This was the first book I’ve read by Luecht. I look forward to reading others.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.
October 11, 2017
I really love when I find new authors. This was a new author to me, and I was hooked with the first few chapters. I don't know a lot about this time period - but I learned a lot about the Dust Bowl and what was going on around this time. This was a difficult time in our nation's history. The book is carefully researched, intriguing, well written and the characters are well developed. I enjoyed watching the book unfold.
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging program - all opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging program - all opinions are my own.
October 13, 2017
Let me provide you a cautionary tale of book reviews, best friends, and Sims. My book bestie, Kristin, spent last weekend trying to convince me to play Sims. There may have been some sing-songy coaxing, some allusion to a Sims blog post I ‘had‘ to put up, and slight coercion. There may have been suggestions that this particular review wasn’t due for several more days and I had plenty of time. There may have been protests (by me) but I fell for the lines and well… That leads us to late Wednesday night fighting with myself and swearing I’ll never listen to her again as I try to finish this book for tomorrow. My latest (and soon to change again) work schedule gets me home later than I have time to do the necessary things before my preferred bedtime. This makes reading take doubly long during the week. Man, though I can hit it out of the park on my days off! I don’t like being in this situation as I like to have breathing room between books. And this book deserves breathing room because it is absolutely so well written and so well steeped into the Dust Bowl that I felt the grit on my skin and the sear of the sun and even the same brownness that would have enveloped everything.
I was drawn to this book for several reasons but the main one is personal. My daddy was born in the summer of 1939 outside of Muskogee, Oklahoma. Born as the 4th of 5 children he is by definition a dust bowl baby. While his immediate life was not impacted, his family was. Growing up fish was not served in our house. I’ve seen him eat salmon a few times but when he was growing up they ate a lot of whatever fish Pa (his dad) caught in the river each day. He was done, sick, completely over fish as a desirable food source. In 1933 Jessie and her family had no way of knowing that the two years they had already struggled would not soon come to an end. At at 16 years old she had no way of knowing, or even discerning, the face of evil. Probably most people in small town Oklahoma didn’t. It’s most likely not something they’d personally met before. You know that feeling in your soul when something doesn’t feel right? Believe it. Every. Single. Time. I’d rather err on the side of caution than be caught unaware like the characters in this story.
Like I said before this book is so well written, so amazingly steeped in finding faith when there is nothing else. Finding grace and even hope when the rain and the grass and even the sun feels conspired against you. And like a slow-paced, heat scorched day this book was so slow-paced as well. I struggled to read more than a few chapters at a time because I kept waiting for the pace to pick up. Even the wind whipped storms felt slow. When the action did finally come to pass at the very end of the book it was dealt with so cleanly that it wasn’t able to add to the pace of the story. That’s my only complaint. The pace was so sluggish that reading became sluggish. However, I’d totally read this book again and I’m interested in checking out more by this author as well. You don’t even have to be a fan of historical fiction to embrace this book. It’s backdrop feels fresh and inviting, despite the dust and dirt. I’ve not come across a lot of fiction written during this time period but I’d definitely like to see more.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by CelebrateLit. I was not compensated for this review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.
Originally published at https://fizzypopcollection.com/devil-....
I was drawn to this book for several reasons but the main one is personal. My daddy was born in the summer of 1939 outside of Muskogee, Oklahoma. Born as the 4th of 5 children he is by definition a dust bowl baby. While his immediate life was not impacted, his family was. Growing up fish was not served in our house. I’ve seen him eat salmon a few times but when he was growing up they ate a lot of whatever fish Pa (his dad) caught in the river each day. He was done, sick, completely over fish as a desirable food source. In 1933 Jessie and her family had no way of knowing that the two years they had already struggled would not soon come to an end. At at 16 years old she had no way of knowing, or even discerning, the face of evil. Probably most people in small town Oklahoma didn’t. It’s most likely not something they’d personally met before. You know that feeling in your soul when something doesn’t feel right? Believe it. Every. Single. Time. I’d rather err on the side of caution than be caught unaware like the characters in this story.
Like I said before this book is so well written, so amazingly steeped in finding faith when there is nothing else. Finding grace and even hope when the rain and the grass and even the sun feels conspired against you. And like a slow-paced, heat scorched day this book was so slow-paced as well. I struggled to read more than a few chapters at a time because I kept waiting for the pace to pick up. Even the wind whipped storms felt slow. When the action did finally come to pass at the very end of the book it was dealt with so cleanly that it wasn’t able to add to the pace of the story. That’s my only complaint. The pace was so sluggish that reading became sluggish. However, I’d totally read this book again and I’m interested in checking out more by this author as well. You don’t even have to be a fan of historical fiction to embrace this book. It’s backdrop feels fresh and inviting, despite the dust and dirt. I’ve not come across a lot of fiction written during this time period but I’d definitely like to see more.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by CelebrateLit. I was not compensated for this review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.
Originally published at https://fizzypopcollection.com/devil-....
October 18, 2017
“The wind carries more than one kind of evil.” As I opened the cover and began to delve into the lives of the characters inside this story, I was overcome with a sense of despondency and acutely felt their struggle to survive with each turn of the page. Author Cara Luecht drew me into her carefully researched accounting of life in a small dust swept community in Oklahoma circa 1933, and held me captive with her detailed descriptions of life during an oppressive time in history that seemed to find no end.
Emma’s husband is missing. Not knowing what else to do, she continues to care for her five children with the meager means she has available. She keeps house despite the generous amounts of dirt that creep through the cracks and leave a gritty film everywhere. She worries about losing the family farm and she is forced to weigh her options and consider avenues of relief she would never travel under normal circumstances.
Jessie stands on the brink of adulthood at the tender age of 15. She remembers green grass, the chirp of crickets in the evening and the smell of clean air after a refreshing rain. After three years of nothing but dust and brown everywhere, Jessie dreams of escape and watches for any opportunity that can take her away from the mundane life she is forced to live. Will Emma be able to guide and keep Jessie safe knowing the town holds little to no hope for her daughter’s future?
When a flashy new car jostles its way through the rut riddled dusty main street and stops in front of the only business left in town, it draws the attention of all those who remain in the weather worn community. And when the handsome driver extracts himself from the overheated confines of the vehicle, he captures Jessie’s interest and sends her mind racing over the possibilities that just rolled into her life.
I loved this book and the honest portrayal of life during one of the hardest periods in history on the American plains. I got a feel for what my ancestors may have experienced and I found myself identifying with several of the characters and the difficult choices their circumstances forced them to make.
Life is not always happy endings and beautiful scenery. Life can be very hard and look rather brown and ugly. Luecht has given us a close up reality check of what poverty looks like and causes us to question the responsibility we, as God’s people – His church, have to those in need and how we should respond to an evil we cannot name but definitely sense.
The five stars I give this book are well deserved. Luecht once again delivers a deep look into a part of American history that isn’t very pretty but lends a voice to the oft forgotten. Devil in the Dust might be considered a difficult read for some, but I found it enjoyable. I also found reassurance of God’s faithfulness. He answers our prayers in ways we never thought possible or could have imagined. His love for and care of His people no matter what trials befall them reveals itself late in the book, but is nonetheless evident. This is a book that needs be read thoroughly, not skimmed. The reader needs to take in every detail in order to taste and savor all that it holds.
Emma’s husband is missing. Not knowing what else to do, she continues to care for her five children with the meager means she has available. She keeps house despite the generous amounts of dirt that creep through the cracks and leave a gritty film everywhere. She worries about losing the family farm and she is forced to weigh her options and consider avenues of relief she would never travel under normal circumstances.
Jessie stands on the brink of adulthood at the tender age of 15. She remembers green grass, the chirp of crickets in the evening and the smell of clean air after a refreshing rain. After three years of nothing but dust and brown everywhere, Jessie dreams of escape and watches for any opportunity that can take her away from the mundane life she is forced to live. Will Emma be able to guide and keep Jessie safe knowing the town holds little to no hope for her daughter’s future?
When a flashy new car jostles its way through the rut riddled dusty main street and stops in front of the only business left in town, it draws the attention of all those who remain in the weather worn community. And when the handsome driver extracts himself from the overheated confines of the vehicle, he captures Jessie’s interest and sends her mind racing over the possibilities that just rolled into her life.
I loved this book and the honest portrayal of life during one of the hardest periods in history on the American plains. I got a feel for what my ancestors may have experienced and I found myself identifying with several of the characters and the difficult choices their circumstances forced them to make.
Life is not always happy endings and beautiful scenery. Life can be very hard and look rather brown and ugly. Luecht has given us a close up reality check of what poverty looks like and causes us to question the responsibility we, as God’s people – His church, have to those in need and how we should respond to an evil we cannot name but definitely sense.
The five stars I give this book are well deserved. Luecht once again delivers a deep look into a part of American history that isn’t very pretty but lends a voice to the oft forgotten. Devil in the Dust might be considered a difficult read for some, but I found it enjoyable. I also found reassurance of God’s faithfulness. He answers our prayers in ways we never thought possible or could have imagined. His love for and care of His people no matter what trials befall them reveals itself late in the book, but is nonetheless evident. This is a book that needs be read thoroughly, not skimmed. The reader needs to take in every detail in order to taste and savor all that it holds.
May 15, 2017
6/1933, OK Panhandle. Sidney (old negro bachelor) watched from his shanty front porch as more/more PPL were packing up & moving on.
Mr. Draper, Mrs. Draper & family were headed for CA.
Mrs. Emma Owen (mom/wife) went to see Mr. Justin Mitchell (Randall’s brother) the dry goods store owner, in hopes he would continue her credit.
With some reluctance, he gave her what food & commodities she needed.
Jessie Owen (16, Emma's oldest daughter), Anna Owen, Betsy Owen & Little Henry Owen (2, son) needed to eat.
Mr. Henry Owen (husband/father) is still missing.
Mrs. Lillian Woodall (wife), & Reverend Peter Woodall husband) were not quite as bad off as everyone else.
Mr. Randall Mitchell’s wife Mrs. Betty Mitchell had died.
Justin offered him a room above the store.
Old Widow Ruby was found dead on her property. She had been there a while.
A proper funeral/burial were held for her.
Randall had gone to check out her home.
Lillian received & unexpected phone call.
Emma sat on a chair in Henry’s hospital room.
He had both legs & his pelvis broken.
Mrs. Woodall & Reverend Woodall had Emma & Henry in the back of his pickup.
Randall had bought the Old Widow Ruby house/property.
He brought Jesse & Jacob over to look at it.
What became of Randall?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written historical fiction thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great Oklahoma panhandle movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Heritage Beacon Fiction; Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas; Amazon Digital Services LLC; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Mr. Draper, Mrs. Draper & family were headed for CA.
Mrs. Emma Owen (mom/wife) went to see Mr. Justin Mitchell (Randall’s brother) the dry goods store owner, in hopes he would continue her credit.
With some reluctance, he gave her what food & commodities she needed.
Jessie Owen (16, Emma's oldest daughter), Anna Owen, Betsy Owen & Little Henry Owen (2, son) needed to eat.
Mr. Henry Owen (husband/father) is still missing.
Mrs. Lillian Woodall (wife), & Reverend Peter Woodall husband) were not quite as bad off as everyone else.
Mr. Randall Mitchell’s wife Mrs. Betty Mitchell had died.
Justin offered him a room above the store.
Old Widow Ruby was found dead on her property. She had been there a while.
A proper funeral/burial were held for her.
Randall had gone to check out her home.
Lillian received & unexpected phone call.
Emma sat on a chair in Henry’s hospital room.
He had both legs & his pelvis broken.
Mrs. Woodall & Reverend Woodall had Emma & Henry in the back of his pickup.
Randall had bought the Old Widow Ruby house/property.
He brought Jesse & Jacob over to look at it.
What became of Randall?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written historical fiction thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great Oklahoma panhandle movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Heritage Beacon Fiction; Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas; Amazon Digital Services LLC; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
October 14, 2017
The dust bowl, a time when much of America's farmlands perished. The center of crop growing for many, I've heard it called "the breadbasket", was a barren wasteland. Here is what's left of a community, a few remaining poverty stricken families that haven't been able to leave this tiny town of Oklahoma, and their Pastor and his wife. The little ones, like two year old Little Henry, have never seen grass, or played in the rain. Their lives are eeking out in a wasteland fit to rival any dystopian tale. Lillian is only sixteen, but she can remember before, something that most people seem to have given up recollecting. They're now becoming dependent on the government for food, the start of welfare. Folks leave and don't come back. While this is focused on one town, scores of people died during this time frame, and in this town people perished as well. Everyone still in this town is praying for an answer, waiting to leave, or waiting to die.
Then the possible answer rolls in. In his new car, and clean shining clothing, a man comes planning to buy up land. So much of the land is deserted and laid to waist, it's a prime opportunity for a rich man to capitalize on the sorrow of others. He's rolling in funding, and he's seen the beauty in Lillian. The question of the hour is, is he a saint come to save them, or is he a demon in disguise?
Literally gritty in it's portrayal of much more than dirt and sand, this book proffers an honest portrayal of the struggle for survival and not loosing faith while walking through the worst of circumstances. It makes me think of the valley of the shadow of death from the Psalms. While I didn't want the characters to fear evil, I did root for them to know true evil when the saw it, so that they could cast it out from among them, in what ever form it appeared. Being a pastor's child, I appreciated the way the pastors in this book were written, and found myself cheering them on as they gave their all to try to help others keep their faith when no breakthroughs were insight. This book is well written, and worth reading.
My copy came from Celebrate Lit. My review, my thoughts, my opinions are my own and this review is left of my own free volition.
Then the possible answer rolls in. In his new car, and clean shining clothing, a man comes planning to buy up land. So much of the land is deserted and laid to waist, it's a prime opportunity for a rich man to capitalize on the sorrow of others. He's rolling in funding, and he's seen the beauty in Lillian. The question of the hour is, is he a saint come to save them, or is he a demon in disguise?
Literally gritty in it's portrayal of much more than dirt and sand, this book proffers an honest portrayal of the struggle for survival and not loosing faith while walking through the worst of circumstances. It makes me think of the valley of the shadow of death from the Psalms. While I didn't want the characters to fear evil, I did root for them to know true evil when the saw it, so that they could cast it out from among them, in what ever form it appeared. Being a pastor's child, I appreciated the way the pastors in this book were written, and found myself cheering them on as they gave their all to try to help others keep their faith when no breakthroughs were insight. This book is well written, and worth reading.
My copy came from Celebrate Lit. My review, my thoughts, my opinions are my own and this review is left of my own free volition.
October 22, 2017
With a setting in the Oklahoma Dust Bowl during the early 1930’s “Devil in the Dust” is a powerful story of both desperation and hope, avarice and sacrifice, and the basic human will to survive.
The author’s words pulled me immediately into the story. I could hear the never-ending wind and feel it’s dry heat on my skin. I could taste the dirty grit in my mouth and feel the hot earth beneath my bare feet. It was easy to understand the hopelessness that permeated the small town as well as the choices made by the characters. Her characters are strong ones who tell their story well. Pastor Peter and his wife Lillian do what they can to help their flock but feel helpless as they can do little to relieve the suffering. Emma Owen sacrifices her own needs to care for her children in the absence of their father who left on business and never returned. Jessie Owen does all she can to help her family but dreams of a better life. And then there is the stranger who seems to offer hope but may not be who he seems.
The drought had taken a toll on the once thriving small town and farming community. Income lost and the inability to even grow food for their hungry families forced many to leave and those who stayed wondered from day to day just how long they could hang on. And then there were those claimed by death. In the midst of these desperate conditions a shiny new car rolled into town driven by a man with plans to take advantage of the situation. It was little wonder that young Jessie was charmed by his polished appearance, kindness, and generosity. Could this stranger be the answer for the Owen family?
I thoroughly enjoyed “Devil in the Dust”. It is a story that brought a brief part of my American History classes to life and helped me view it through the eyes of those who lived it. I gained a new appreciation for the blessed life I live in a snug house with more than enough food for my family.
Cara Luecht is a gifted author. If you have not read any of her books, “Devil in the Dust” would be a good place to begin.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
The author’s words pulled me immediately into the story. I could hear the never-ending wind and feel it’s dry heat on my skin. I could taste the dirty grit in my mouth and feel the hot earth beneath my bare feet. It was easy to understand the hopelessness that permeated the small town as well as the choices made by the characters. Her characters are strong ones who tell their story well. Pastor Peter and his wife Lillian do what they can to help their flock but feel helpless as they can do little to relieve the suffering. Emma Owen sacrifices her own needs to care for her children in the absence of their father who left on business and never returned. Jessie Owen does all she can to help her family but dreams of a better life. And then there is the stranger who seems to offer hope but may not be who he seems.
The drought had taken a toll on the once thriving small town and farming community. Income lost and the inability to even grow food for their hungry families forced many to leave and those who stayed wondered from day to day just how long they could hang on. And then there were those claimed by death. In the midst of these desperate conditions a shiny new car rolled into town driven by a man with plans to take advantage of the situation. It was little wonder that young Jessie was charmed by his polished appearance, kindness, and generosity. Could this stranger be the answer for the Owen family?
I thoroughly enjoyed “Devil in the Dust”. It is a story that brought a brief part of my American History classes to life and helped me view it through the eyes of those who lived it. I gained a new appreciation for the blessed life I live in a snug house with more than enough food for my family.
Cara Luecht is a gifted author. If you have not read any of her books, “Devil in the Dust” would be a good place to begin.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
October 13, 2017
What a refreshing change Devil in the Dust turned out to be. Our author tackled a devastating timeframe in history where poverty was reality for nearly everyone in this area. The author provided such a good description of the dust bowl time era that I felt as though I could feel the dirt in my face and my mouth along with the characters. All of our leading ladies deal with the realities of their lives with hopes to break free in some way. But relief doesn't seem to come. In walks a hot shot that seems to be everyone's ticket out of poverty- but at what price? Is any price too high to pay to free your family from poverty and devastation? What a complex character Jessie is! Barely 16, she grows up before our eyes. Emma, her mother becomes old before our eyes dealing with an ill husband and many hungry children. Lillian, our pastor's wife tries to make the best of what they have, but questions what comfort her husband can give to their destitute city. What Devil in the Dust tackled which many don't, is the reality that suffering is real, and sometimes suffering doesn't end for a long time, possibly until we meet Jesus in Heaven. So what is a pastor and Christian to do in such devastation? The joy of the Lord is to be our strength and that is where we find true hope in complete suffering. In times like these, the question to God is not why?, but How? How Lord can we all work together as the body of Christ to find meaning in this time? To accomplish your will in this time? Thank you Mrs. Luecht for tackling the harsh realities we all face head on, and reminding us that the point is not to understand why, but to serve our Lord together in joy. Reminding us of the priceless value of Christian fellowship to find meaning in the desert. Reminding us to reach out to others in their deserts with the love of Christ, unafraid for them to share the reality of the grief they bear, and instead grieving with them. Don't miss this unique and eye opening read!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are my own.
October 16, 2017
This book pulled my heart in all different directions. But the theme that truly resonated with me in reading this, was hope. Have hope. When life is not going well, and you feel as if you have nothing, have hope. Hope that the Lord will take care of it all for you. These people had nothing. No crops, barely enough good to get by, and no money. Some days were better than others, but they all seemed to possess this little spark of hope at some point during the book.
I think I connected to Jessie's character more then any of them. She was just so sick of her life and wanted to get far away, from the poverty, the sadness, and the nothingness of the town. I felt that way when I was growing up - I just wanted to have something better. And while she thinks she have found her ticket to paradise, she finds out that sometimes not everything is as it seems.
Although I am not sure it was intentional, I found some interesting parallels in the book to the bible. We are to beware of false prophets, and really they can be so convincing that it is hard to tell who is trustworthy and who is not. Well there is one character in this book (you'll know exactly who I am referring to once you read it) that totally fits this bill. Says all the right words, does all the right things, and yet you do not know their true heart and reasoning for things, sometimes until it is too late. This happens to us in life and I thought the author did a wonderful job depicting this in the story.
Overall this was a beautiful story of having hope when there is nothing else. The characters are honest, heart warming, bold at times, and a joy to read about. By the end of the first chapter I think you will find yourself back in 1933, waiting for the drought to end. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 21, 2017
"Devil in The Dust" by Cara Luecht is a novel that I really enjoyed reading from start to finish. Well, that statement isn't really true because I wanted more . I wanted to read more about how they survived when the drought ended, but I know they had more happy times and unfortunately sad times as we all do in life.
"Dust In The Devil" shows that sometimes it is hard to trust and even though we don't do everything right, God can still use the outcome for our good. Yes, we still have to suffer the consequences of our actions but God can still make good out of the ashes ( or in this book, the dust).
I really felt the struggle of the characters in this story and wondered if I would have done the same as Jessie. I understood her choice but at the same time as I was reading I was saying "No, it isn't right". Ok, I know I am not going to make what I am trying to say very plain, but even through Jessie made a wrong choice, God used her wrong choice to make things right for her family.
I really recommend " Devil In the Dust" to any reader who likes Historical Fiction and clean reads.
This was the first book by Cara Luecht that I have read but it certainly won't be the last. This would make a really good clean family movie, even with the violence because it is talked about but it is not detailed.
My favorite quote from the book
"We’re waiting with them. That’s why we’re here. We’re here to wait with them, to stand next to them even when things get bad. We can’t change it, but we can share it. And that’s all anyone needs, someone who will share even the bad times. It’s hard because it’s the most we can do, but it feels like the least.”
Definitely a five star novel.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
"Dust In The Devil" shows that sometimes it is hard to trust and even though we don't do everything right, God can still use the outcome for our good. Yes, we still have to suffer the consequences of our actions but God can still make good out of the ashes ( or in this book, the dust).
I really felt the struggle of the characters in this story and wondered if I would have done the same as Jessie. I understood her choice but at the same time as I was reading I was saying "No, it isn't right". Ok, I know I am not going to make what I am trying to say very plain, but even through Jessie made a wrong choice, God used her wrong choice to make things right for her family.
I really recommend " Devil In the Dust" to any reader who likes Historical Fiction and clean reads.
This was the first book by Cara Luecht that I have read but it certainly won't be the last. This would make a really good clean family movie, even with the violence because it is talked about but it is not detailed.
My favorite quote from the book
"We’re waiting with them. That’s why we’re here. We’re here to wait with them, to stand next to them even when things get bad. We can’t change it, but we can share it. And that’s all anyone needs, someone who will share even the bad times. It’s hard because it’s the most we can do, but it feels like the least.”
Definitely a five star novel.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
October 10, 2017
Devil in the Dust by Cara Luecht is an absolutely riveting story that will not let go. Readers will think about the story for a long time as it seems to seep into the soul as the dust seeped into the lives of the characters portrayed in this book. Although a fairly dispiriting tale of the Dust Bowl of the Oklahoma 1930s, the author has shown the hope-filled spirit of strong individuals and families even as the soul-abrading dust, the dust devil that was a harbinger of continued hardship, whipped through their desperate community. The characters, whether good or evil, are marvelously depicted. Jessie, a young 16-year-old who recognizes that pride is a luxury she cannot afford to assume, is willing to pay the price to save her family, her family that is running out of time, is at the end of their rope. Peter and Lillian, the pastor and his wife who stay in this seemingly hopeless town to walk beside their church people, to give them what they can, even though something inside them is dying--like their souls are slowly leaking out. And Randall, the new Mr. Mitchell...is he the blessing they were all waiting for? Or is he perhaps another kind of devil in this life-sucking dust? The author blends these lost and abused lives, these loved and adored lives together into a story full of secrets, suspense, and sadness. Devil in the Dust is heartfelt, compelling, memorable...not a book to be missed.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via CelebrateLit. A favorable review was not required and opinions are my own. This review is part of a CelebrateLit blog tour.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via CelebrateLit. A favorable review was not required and opinions are my own. This review is part of a CelebrateLit blog tour.
October 10, 2017
This book has vivid imaginary depicting the Dust Bowl of Oklahoma in 1933. I can see the dust clouds and the families scooping buckets of dust out of their homes. Hearing your children coughing would be heartbreaking. Emma is such a strong woman trying to do the right thing and holding the family together. Desperate times dictate desperate measures. I admire Pastor Peter and Lillian spreading the hope of Christ not just through lip service but by helping their neighbors that are left. Can you picture the abandoned farms and a rich stranger who comes to town offering......what? Is it hope or are there dark secrets and an ulterior motive? Will Jessie fall for his charms? I guess you will have to read to find out. This book deals with dark secrets, faith, family, spousal abuse, hunger, etc. This is my first novel by Cara Luecht and I hope to read more, as I enjoyed it.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
January 20, 2019
A good historical romance during the Dust Bowl storms era, 1933 in Oklahoma. A small hometown in Oklahoma had acres of beautiful wheat blowing in the wind and lust green grass growing. Then suddenly the wind blows bringing hugh dust storms covering everything with dirty, dusty, dirt. The wheat died, families were hungry, no food was available and no money.
This is a story about the Owen's family, Emma and her husband had five children. Jessie, age sixteen helped her mother with the children but she was also looking for a way to leave home. Everyone was praying for the rain and storms to stop. Emma stood tall and was a hard worker, she hung wet sheets over the door and windows to keep the dust out but it didn't help. Dust blew into the house, in cabinets, in every corner of the house every day and night. Many families had loaded up their belongings and left their homes.
This is a powerful story, the author painter a vivid picture of the despair, the hunger, depression and this horrible era. A well written story; as I read I could hear the wind blowing, my heart hurt for the families that had endured such a misery. Families were praying and holding on with a string of faith and hope. A very good read, I enjoyed it.
This is a story about the Owen's family, Emma and her husband had five children. Jessie, age sixteen helped her mother with the children but she was also looking for a way to leave home. Everyone was praying for the rain and storms to stop. Emma stood tall and was a hard worker, she hung wet sheets over the door and windows to keep the dust out but it didn't help. Dust blew into the house, in cabinets, in every corner of the house every day and night. Many families had loaded up their belongings and left their homes.
This is a powerful story, the author painter a vivid picture of the despair, the hunger, depression and this horrible era. A well written story; as I read I could hear the wind blowing, my heart hurt for the families that had endured such a misery. Families were praying and holding on with a string of faith and hope. A very good read, I enjoyed it.
August 28, 2017
Devil in the Dust: The Wind Carries More Than One Kind of Evil is a great read. I enjoyed everything about this story, including the historical part involving the Dust Bowl. It is obvious that the author, Cara Luecht did her research to write this well written story. I am not aware of this time in history and found it quite interesting. She did a great job bringing a reader back in time to experience what it was like back then, living in 1930s Oklahoma. I felt like I was right there within those pages and feeling the turmoil and emotions the characters were going through.
Devil in the Dust is a beautiful and touching story of learning how to survive and moving on, keeping faith and inspiration. I look forward to reading more books by Cara Luecht in the future. I would give this book 4 stars and recommend it.
Devil in the Dust is a beautiful and touching story of learning how to survive and moving on, keeping faith and inspiration. I look forward to reading more books by Cara Luecht in the future. I would give this book 4 stars and recommend it.
September 26, 2017
At first, the cover of the book was not overly appealing, with baked dust and a church building in the background. But once I started the book, I could not put it down! I couldn't wait to see how the story would turn out! Of course we know that there is a guy splashing money all around in the 1933 small Oklahoma town trying to survive unending drought. We know there is an innocent 15 year old girl who thinks this guy will make her life, and the life of her very poor family, better. We know better...Finally I had to keep reading, admiring the faithful pastor's wife. I was reminded to not judge a book by it's cover!
October 30, 2017
I live in Southern Oklahoma but the dust bowl was up in the panhandle of the state. This book reminded me of the horrible time this was in just not Oklahoma but the surrounding states as well. I liked that the author brought the despair, hunger, feeling of hopelessness into her story. Jessie's part in sad but she was in a situation where she felt she didn't have a choice and we've all been there. Tough times hit and hard decisions have to be made. The author paints a vivid picture of the Dust Bowl. Blessings, Karen Rating: 3* I received a complimentary copy of this book and all opinions are my own.
May 23, 2020
This novel by Cara Luecht is for readers who love historical fiction. With its wonderful descriptions, it brings the Dust Bowl in the panhandle of Oklahoma to life. I could almost taste the dirt in my mouth as the dust storms raged around the houses of the few people still living in town. Luecht weaves in the story of how young Jesse falls for the gallant new resident who drove up in his fancy car. Jesse finds herself torn between helping her family survive the poverty that the drought brought to their farm and the wariness of what it would mean for a sixteen-year-old girl to marry a man almost twice her age.
October 13, 2017
Cara really paints a picture of this time. I could feel the dirt in my mouth as I read this book. So well done.
The stories and perspective of these women are unique to what is going on. Hope, hopelessness, shame, confusion. So much what we go through in our daily walks.
If you have ever been in a desert spiritually (and who hasn’t?) you will appreciate this book and find the deeper meaning behind the words.
A copy of this book was given to me through the Celebrate Lit Team. All opinions are my own.
The stories and perspective of these women are unique to what is going on. Hope, hopelessness, shame, confusion. So much what we go through in our daily walks.
If you have ever been in a desert spiritually (and who hasn’t?) you will appreciate this book and find the deeper meaning behind the words.
A copy of this book was given to me through the Celebrate Lit Team. All opinions are my own.
October 1, 2018
Almost couldn't breathe
I gave this story 5 stars because of the writing. It not only flowed, it's descriptive prose describing the dust storms and the dirt and soot everywhere, almost had me feeling like I was right there with the townspeople. And Randall had some good qualities. I was kind of rooting for he and Jessie to make it. 13 or 14 years difference isn't that much, and she could and did make a difference with her family. One of the best stories I have read. Reminded me of Steinbeck.s grapes of wrath.
I gave this story 5 stars because of the writing. It not only flowed, it's descriptive prose describing the dust storms and the dirt and soot everywhere, almost had me feeling like I was right there with the townspeople. And Randall had some good qualities. I was kind of rooting for he and Jessie to make it. 13 or 14 years difference isn't that much, and she could and did make a difference with her family. One of the best stories I have read. Reminded me of Steinbeck.s grapes of wrath.
September 19, 2021
I got this as a free book on Kindle. The descriptions of living in the dust bowl in Oklahoma make you realise just how awful it must have been. The dust was so invasive. The dust was bad enough when I had building work done on my house, we felt like we were eating it and sleeping in it, but to endure what those people did must have been dreadful. No wonder so many of them just abandoned their homes and left. The story itself was ok. I felt engaged with the characters and was sorry to leave them behind, but the ending was a bit pat. However, I did enjoy reading it.
October 17, 2017
Ever finish a book and just not know what you thought??? I liked some of the elements and a good part of the story. all the dust and dust storms were unreal, though I don't doubt they happened. I hated seeing the community seeming to be falling apart and felt horrible everyone was suffering so.
I truly would give this book 3.5 stars
I received a copy of this book free in exchange for my honest review
https://booksnbaubles.com/devil-in-th...
I truly would give this book 3.5 stars
I received a copy of this book free in exchange for my honest review
https://booksnbaubles.com/devil-in-th...
October 3, 2018
Think of raging dirt /dust / mud storms. This is not sciene fiction of future galaxies. Welcome to the dust bowl of Oklahoma in the 1930's and their multi-year drought. I thought the storm descriptions were pretty good. I thought the author's depiction of the town and despair and the mom and dad, and the preacher and the city slicker from back east were all pretty good. I thought the ending was an easy way out to end the story.
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