The Cistern

by James N. Ezell

What did he see in the photograph taken late one afternoon when the setting sun broke through the clouds? What lay beyond the trees along the stream on the other side of the pasture? A few pixels and shadows lead to an obsession--an obsession that might take his life and that of his beloved Genevieve. Nothing could prepare them for the horror that lay ahead.

266 pages, Paperback

Published November 3, 2017

Reviews

[Carolyn Breckinridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, it's true I'm the author's wife. But I've given 'The Cistern' five stars on its own merits and wouldn't do so if the book hadn't earned them. What I appreciate most about this novel, the first in a planned series, is the strength and uniqueness found in each of the women characters. For example, a female crop dusting pilot, and a main female character who simply will not give up, intellectually, emotionally, or physically, despite the life-threatening challenges she faces. This novel is set in a fictional black belt Alabama county, Tombigbee County, but the geography and its general ambiance will be recognized by any who know this region. The writing style is straight-forward, not overly-wordy, and offers realistic dialogue and beautiful descriptions. Although it starts with a violent scene, it is not a gratuitously violent story. It is a page-turner, filled with suspense, action, determination, and love between the two main characters, a husband/wife, Dalton and Genn. This, of course, is a re-read for me. You may very well read it more than once yourself! And, I'm certain you'll recommend it as a book to read within your circle of friends.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Native Alabamian, James Ezell, spun a mystery that kept me engaged with the story. Ezell’s deep family ties to the area lend credibility and authenticity to to characters and the plot. Can’t wait for his next book!!!

[Kim Ligon · Rating 4 out of 5]

A compelling story of a photographer who is too observant and is swept into a tale of murder with far reaching consequences. You can see the beauty of the rural Alabama area where the story is set and the characters are richly drawn by someone who obviously knows Southern life and people. It will pull you deep into the cistern along with our hero and heroine. A wonderful tale.

[Mitzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the story. The characters really got themselves in a jam.

[Isabelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great little book. By little, I mean 250 pages compared to the brick of 900 pages that I've just finished reading. This one packed suspense, a good murder story, a lovely description of the back country of Alabama, the descriptive makes you want to visit. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I'm about to follow with the next one in the series: Debris Cloud.