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What Blooms from Dust
Just as Jeremiah Goodbye is set to meet his fate in the electric chair, a tornado tears down the prison walls, and he is given a second chance at life. With the flip of a coin, he decides to return to his home town of Nowhere, Oklahoma, to settle the score with his twin brother Josiah. But upon his escape, he enters a world he doesn’t recognize—one that has been overtaken by the Dust Bowl. And the gift he once relied on to guide him is as unrecognizable as the path back to Nowhere.
After one jolt in Old Sparky, Jeremiah sees things more clearly and begins to question the mysterious circumstances surrounding the murders he was accused of. On his journey home, he accidentally rescues a young boy who follows him the rest of the way, and the pair arrive at their destination where they are greeted by fearful townspeople. When the Black Sunday storm hits the very next day, the residents of Nowhere finally begin to let the past few years of hardship bury them under the weight of all that dust.
Unlikely heroes, Jeremiah and his new companion, Peter Cotton, try to protect the townspeople from themselves, but Jeremiah must face his nightmares and free himself from the guilt of flipping the coin on those men who died.
Filled with mystery and magic, What Blooms from Dust is the story of finding hope in the midst of darkness and discovering the beauty of unexpected kindness.
After one jolt in Old Sparky, Jeremiah sees things more clearly and begins to question the mysterious circumstances surrounding the murders he was accused of. On his journey home, he accidentally rescues a young boy who follows him the rest of the way, and the pair arrive at their destination where they are greeted by fearful townspeople. When the Black Sunday storm hits the very next day, the residents of Nowhere finally begin to let the past few years of hardship bury them under the weight of all that dust.
Unlikely heroes, Jeremiah and his new companion, Peter Cotton, try to protect the townspeople from themselves, but Jeremiah must face his nightmares and free himself from the guilt of flipping the coin on those men who died.
Filled with mystery and magic, What Blooms from Dust is the story of finding hope in the midst of darkness and discovering the beauty of unexpected kindness.
337 pages, Paperback
First published June 26, 2018
22 people are currently reading
2566 people want to read
About the author
J.H. Markert
6 books813 followersAlso writes under James Markert.
J. H. Markert is a producer, screenwriter, husband, and father of two from Louisville, Kentucky, where he was also a tennis pro for 25 years. He graduated with a degree in History from the University of Louisville.
J. H. Markert is a producer, screenwriter, husband, and father of two from Louisville, Kentucky, where he was also a tennis pro for 25 years. He graduated with a degree in History from the University of Louisville.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 199 reviews
February 12, 2024
Jeremiah Goodbye (a.k.a. the coin flip killer) is saved from the electric chair when a tornado tears down the prison. He then makes his way to his hometown of Nowhere, Oklahoma. On the way to Nowhere, he rescues a young boy by the name of Peter Cotton. When they arrive in Nowhere, they are met with mistrust and fear. Nowhere, Oklahoma is a place that has seen better days. The Dust Bowl wreaked havoc and then the Black Sunday storm hits...
This was an odd and quirky book. It's a blend of fantasy, historical fiction, and magical realism. I wasn't too sure about it when I began listening to the audiobook, but the wonderful narration sucked me in and didn't let go. I thought the author did a fabulous job with the descriptions of the dust, the oppressiveness of it, how it weighed down the town and the townspeople, the effect it had on their lives and health. It is an unforgiving environment that feels bleak and grey. But the book shows that with hope, love, kindness, things can bloom.
I enjoyed the take on relationships and the human spirit. I also enjoyed the vivid descriptions and atmospheric feel of this book. There is a little bit of magic/magical realism in this book. If you are looking for something a little different, then this book might be the book for you!
Thank you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
This was an odd and quirky book. It's a blend of fantasy, historical fiction, and magical realism. I wasn't too sure about it when I began listening to the audiobook, but the wonderful narration sucked me in and didn't let go. I thought the author did a fabulous job with the descriptions of the dust, the oppressiveness of it, how it weighed down the town and the townspeople, the effect it had on their lives and health. It is an unforgiving environment that feels bleak and grey. But the book shows that with hope, love, kindness, things can bloom.
I enjoyed the take on relationships and the human spirit. I also enjoyed the vivid descriptions and atmospheric feel of this book. There is a little bit of magic/magical realism in this book. If you are looking for something a little different, then this book might be the book for you!
Thank you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
June 10, 2018
So first thing first, I choose this book because of its' cover. It is beautiful, and truth be told, I am easily swayed by a pretty cover. Luckily for me, it wasn't just the cover that was beautiful, the story between the covers was also gorgeous. It is a little slow out of the gate but stick with it, and I promise you will not be disappointed. 
The writing was fantastic. The setting atmospheric. I'll be honest, I knew nothing about the dust bowl before reading this book, but this author did a tremendous job of making me feel like I was experiencing the grit, despair, and hopelessness right along with the residents of Nowhere, Oklahoma. The characters were well developed and intriguing. I loved Jeremiah Goodbye and Peter Cotton. Can't say I was a huge fan of Ellen, but this book was full of interesting characters for sure. The plot was unique and engaging with a thread of magical realism woven throughout. I loved the added element of the coin flipping and the typewriter. All that said, my favorite part of this book was the last 20% or so. Perseverance, forgiveness, kindness, and hope. The letters, and the roses. I'll admit, I had a few tears in my eyes watching this town come back to life. Not only come back to life but THRIVE. It was a powerful ending with a powerful message.
Nothing more left to say really. I am so happy that this cover caught my eye. And this was another great read that reminded me that I have to step out of the romance genre box more often. This one gets two HUGE thumbs up from yours truly.
July 14, 2018
Favorite Quotes:
Wilmington said he felt a duster coming every morning. He liked to hedge his bets and say he told you so.
Least when I talk I don’t look like a mouse nibblin’ on cheese…
Back when you had hair on your head and a stomach that fit in your pants. How do you continue gaining weight when the rest of us can’t seem to keep it?
Your mother died too young, Jeremiah. Death ain’t picky when it comes to things like that. It takes you when it takes you and then leaves you to cope without the least bit of instructions on how you’re supposed to do it.
There’s signs up everywhere in California… They say No Okies Allowed. They don’t want us. Nobody wants us. We’re no different from the Indians and the Blacks and the Mexicans… They put us on the same signs. The same signs.
My Review:
“Health, wealth, and opportunity,” were the promises on a brochure depicting a lovely town with paved roads and a wholesome and established community which had lured a train filled with hopeful new residents, all eager to see their new investment of homes and property, only to find themselves in the middle of nowhere, in a field in the Oklahoma panhandle in 1920s. Swindled and fleeced. They settled there anyway and ironically named their newly established town, Nowhere, Oklahoma. I love irony and Mr. Markert used it cleverly throughout his intricately woven storylines and brilliantly paced and engrossing tale.
Masterfully crafted are the words that kept turning over in my mind as I read this evocative and superbly written book. It was quite stunning. Mr. Markert’s cunning use of detail and striking descriptions plucked at all senses while sharp visuals danced through my gray matter. I became so engrossed in the story I grew hot and thirsty when they were parched; I could almost hear the wind and smell/taste/feel the grit of the relentless dust that permeated every scene. Their despair and exhaustion wafted across the pages. I also felt low-energy as they grew increasingly listless and despondent. But in addition to all that was the eeriness of the sixth sense and unexplainable good/evil type forces at play. I was fully invested in this startling and peculiar family drama from beginning to end and despite the arduousness of the tale; I was well pleased and fully satisfied with the journey.
Wilmington said he felt a duster coming every morning. He liked to hedge his bets and say he told you so.
Least when I talk I don’t look like a mouse nibblin’ on cheese…
Back when you had hair on your head and a stomach that fit in your pants. How do you continue gaining weight when the rest of us can’t seem to keep it?
Your mother died too young, Jeremiah. Death ain’t picky when it comes to things like that. It takes you when it takes you and then leaves you to cope without the least bit of instructions on how you’re supposed to do it.
There’s signs up everywhere in California… They say No Okies Allowed. They don’t want us. Nobody wants us. We’re no different from the Indians and the Blacks and the Mexicans… They put us on the same signs. The same signs.
My Review:
“Health, wealth, and opportunity,” were the promises on a brochure depicting a lovely town with paved roads and a wholesome and established community which had lured a train filled with hopeful new residents, all eager to see their new investment of homes and property, only to find themselves in the middle of nowhere, in a field in the Oklahoma panhandle in 1920s. Swindled and fleeced. They settled there anyway and ironically named their newly established town, Nowhere, Oklahoma. I love irony and Mr. Markert used it cleverly throughout his intricately woven storylines and brilliantly paced and engrossing tale.
Masterfully crafted are the words that kept turning over in my mind as I read this evocative and superbly written book. It was quite stunning. Mr. Markert’s cunning use of detail and striking descriptions plucked at all senses while sharp visuals danced through my gray matter. I became so engrossed in the story I grew hot and thirsty when they were parched; I could almost hear the wind and smell/taste/feel the grit of the relentless dust that permeated every scene. Their despair and exhaustion wafted across the pages. I also felt low-energy as they grew increasingly listless and despondent. But in addition to all that was the eeriness of the sixth sense and unexplainable good/evil type forces at play. I was fully invested in this startling and peculiar family drama from beginning to end and despite the arduousness of the tale; I was well pleased and fully satisfied with the journey.
November 21, 2017
You're not supposed to pick your favorite baby, but this one...I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. Thank you to all the Goodreads readers out there for doing what you do!
February 16, 2024
3.5
1908 Wilmington Goodbye moves himself and his pregnant wife to Majestic Oklahoma during the Great Depression, only to find that the brochure was a lie and ended up in Nowhere, Oklahoma. What awaits their future is The Dust Bowl and all the hurdles life has thrown at them that they must overcome through acceptance and forgiveness.
With the help of two unlikely heroes they find their way.
I have to admit I was drawn to this book by its beautiful cover and a new found love for historical fiction. Add in the element of magic, and a battle between good and evil …well now I’m intrigued.
This book was narrated by David Bendena, who has a beautiful deep almost country voice that pairs well with the setting of the book. The emotions the characters were going through felt like he was going through them too. I would love to hear other books he narrates.
What I took away from the book-
Faith and perseverance help forgiveness grow.
Thank you to Net Galley, James Markert, and Dreamscape Media for an audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
1908 Wilmington Goodbye moves himself and his pregnant wife to Majestic Oklahoma during the Great Depression, only to find that the brochure was a lie and ended up in Nowhere, Oklahoma. What awaits their future is The Dust Bowl and all the hurdles life has thrown at them that they must overcome through acceptance and forgiveness.
With the help of two unlikely heroes they find their way.
I have to admit I was drawn to this book by its beautiful cover and a new found love for historical fiction. Add in the element of magic, and a battle between good and evil …well now I’m intrigued.
This book was narrated by David Bendena, who has a beautiful deep almost country voice that pairs well with the setting of the book. The emotions the characters were going through felt like he was going through them too. I would love to hear other books he narrates.
What I took away from the book-
Faith and perseverance help forgiveness grow.
Thank you to Net Galley, James Markert, and Dreamscape Media for an audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
January 11, 2019
What Blooms From Dust? Kindness. This well-written book places the reader in the Dust Bowl (Nowhere, Oklahoma) in the mid-1930s. Daily dust storms are sapping the town of hope and energy and despair is on the rise when Jeremiah Goodbye returns home. Convicted of killing four men and turned in by his twin brother Josiah, a freak storm saves him during his electrocution. Dubbed the Coin-Flip Killer, he rescues a young Peter Cotton (and his typewriter), who is being sold by his own mother, on his way home. Peter seems simple in mind, repeating whatever is said to him. Jeremiah's return is controversial with some remembering his contributions to the town while others, including the local sheriff, remember his drunk and disorderly behavior. Josiah worries that his wife Ellen still carries a torch for Jeremiah. When a really bad black duster hits town, almost all residents become catatonic until Jeremiah, Peter and a reporter named Rose lift the town up with their love, forgiveness and kindness. Engaging characters, strong symbolism, with an underlying element of magical realism. 4.5 stars.
P.S. You can judge this book by its striking cover
P.S. You can judge this book by its striking cover
October 1, 2024
When I first picked up this book, I wasn't expecting this to become one of my favourite reads of the year. I was just hoping it'd be decent, but then I was sucked right in and taken on a crazy adventure.
What Blooms From Dust is a perfect example of why everyone should read out of their comfort zone once in a while. I rarely go for historical fiction, so I wasn't sure about this book at first, but it hooked me right from the get-go and absolutely loved every moment of it.
The characters were stunning. From the very moment that Jeremiah appeared on the page, he already had so much personality and was so real. I loved all the characters and being a part of their story was the best thing ever.
Adopted father-son relationships are one of my favourite things ever, and there were a couple of scenes in this book where my heart was so warm and fuzzy. It was wonderful. There was some great romance relationships too, and they were done really well.
There's a bit of mystery about the plot, and it's only until right near the end that you find out the truth about everything, and I LOVED that. The whole concept was really intriguing and had me guessing the whole time.
Without giving away any spoilers...I adored the ending! It was just perfect.
This book completely flipped my expectations on end, and had me wanting more with every chapter. If you've never tried this before--give it a go! Absolutely recommended.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest review.
What Blooms From Dust is a perfect example of why everyone should read out of their comfort zone once in a while. I rarely go for historical fiction, so I wasn't sure about this book at first, but it hooked me right from the get-go and absolutely loved every moment of it.
The characters were stunning. From the very moment that Jeremiah appeared on the page, he already had so much personality and was so real. I loved all the characters and being a part of their story was the best thing ever.
Adopted father-son relationships are one of my favourite things ever, and there were a couple of scenes in this book where my heart was so warm and fuzzy. It was wonderful. There was some great romance relationships too, and they were done really well.
There's a bit of mystery about the plot, and it's only until right near the end that you find out the truth about everything, and I LOVED that. The whole concept was really intriguing and had me guessing the whole time.
Without giving away any spoilers...I adored the ending! It was just perfect.
This book completely flipped my expectations on end, and had me wanting more with every chapter. If you've never tried this before--give it a go! Absolutely recommended.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest review.
February 6, 2024
The importance of the flip of a coin couldn't be portrayed better than the life of Jeremiah who managed to escape the fate of an electric chair. Set in the middle of Nowhere, Oklahoma this weird tale is an amalgamation of reality and magic. The mystery builds up with a static replay from his childhood to the present state of his home city. Life at Nowhere is getting darker and while the townspeople manage to tackle the dust, the gloominess inside them is the toughest to battle.
While listening to the audiobook I was deeply invested with its plot lines and magical aspects. This experience could have been improved further with some added sound effects(like the blowing wind, and shattering glasses) and probably a wider narrator cast, as it was difficult to distinguish the characters without one paying close attention to it. I would like to give this book another try, probably with a physical copy as the storyline is surely worth it.
Thank you @netgalley @dreamscape_media @jamesmarkert74 for the Audio ARC.
Genre: #crimefiction #adult #literaryfiction
Rating: 3/5 ⭐️
While listening to the audiobook I was deeply invested with its plot lines and magical aspects. This experience could have been improved further with some added sound effects(like the blowing wind, and shattering glasses) and probably a wider narrator cast, as it was difficult to distinguish the characters without one paying close attention to it. I would like to give this book another try, probably with a physical copy as the storyline is surely worth it.
Thank you @netgalley @dreamscape_media @jamesmarkert74 for the Audio ARC.
Genre: #crimefiction #adult #literaryfiction
Rating: 3/5 ⭐️
November 30, 2018
What Blooms From Dust is a combination of historical and supernatural. The novel is set in Oklahoma in the mid 1930s. The author does a phenomenal job of painting the bleak and exhausting setting of dust storm after dust storm. I felt the heaviness of the time as I turned the pages.
The main character Jeremiah barely escapes Old Sparky at what was to be the end of his time in prison. He returns to his hometown of Nowhere, Oklahoma and his past slowly comes to light. My favorite character in the story was a very odd child named Peter. Underneath the unusual exterior was a heart of gold.
While this type of novel isn't what I typically read, I did enjoy it. My gratitude to publisher Thomas Nelson for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and the opinions expressed are my own.
The main character Jeremiah barely escapes Old Sparky at what was to be the end of his time in prison. He returns to his hometown of Nowhere, Oklahoma and his past slowly comes to light. My favorite character in the story was a very odd child named Peter. Underneath the unusual exterior was a heart of gold.
While this type of novel isn't what I typically read, I did enjoy it. My gratitude to publisher Thomas Nelson for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and the opinions expressed are my own.
July 21, 2018
I really didn’t know what to expect from this book. I’ve never read anything by this author but the description sounded interesting, so I decided to give it a try.
I’ll be honest and say that at about 100 pages in, I didn’t think I was going to like this book. While I liked the characters and some aspects of the story, it was pretty dry. Dust storms kept coming in and no one in the town had any hope. It was just storm after storm, everyone getting more depressed and ready to give up.
About half way through the book though, a young boy named Peter completely changed the town. He started killing the evil with kindness. Peter was such a sweet character and I immediately liked him. He was young and had gone through a hard childhood, and yet he went around bringing joy into these townspeople’s lives. He carried a typewriter around everywhere to write notes to people, and it was just the sweetest thing. He really made this story special.
I also enjoyed Jeremiah’s side of the story. In the very beginning he has just escaped from jail, and is heading back to his hometown. He wasn’t welcome at first, but with Peter’s help they completely changed the town.
So while I wasn’t a big fan of the first half of the book, the second half definitely made up for it. There was so much meaning, forgiveness, and second chances which I loved. Overall, I would recommend this book. Once you get past the beginning this book has so much meaning and it’s really beautiful.
“ I received a free copy of this book in exchange of my honest review. All thoughts are my own.”
I’ll be honest and say that at about 100 pages in, I didn’t think I was going to like this book. While I liked the characters and some aspects of the story, it was pretty dry. Dust storms kept coming in and no one in the town had any hope. It was just storm after storm, everyone getting more depressed and ready to give up.
About half way through the book though, a young boy named Peter completely changed the town. He started killing the evil with kindness. Peter was such a sweet character and I immediately liked him. He was young and had gone through a hard childhood, and yet he went around bringing joy into these townspeople’s lives. He carried a typewriter around everywhere to write notes to people, and it was just the sweetest thing. He really made this story special.
I also enjoyed Jeremiah’s side of the story. In the very beginning he has just escaped from jail, and is heading back to his hometown. He wasn’t welcome at first, but with Peter’s help they completely changed the town.
So while I wasn’t a big fan of the first half of the book, the second half definitely made up for it. There was so much meaning, forgiveness, and second chances which I loved. Overall, I would recommend this book. Once you get past the beginning this book has so much meaning and it’s really beautiful.
“ I received a free copy of this book in exchange of my honest review. All thoughts are my own.”
March 12, 2024
I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect going into this book but was very pleasantly surprised! The characters are complex yet relatable in an unexpected way. The harsh time period of the dustbowl is contrasted perfectly with the love endures undertone. The plot was well thought out and the historical elements of this book really pulled at my heartstrings! I wondered constantly where this story would go, and the magical realism had me questioning how everything play out in the end. I wouldn’t have necessarily guessed that this specific time period and magical realism would pair nicely, but this book was powerful and heartwarming. I found myself thinking of two other greats after finishing this book, The Four Winds and The Green Mile. Although very different, the raw emotion driven by my compassion for the characters, and the thought provoking storyline really got me especially at a few specific parts.
The narrator did a wonderful job navigating through this story. The little details and twists (especially towards the end) were so well done. This was my first book by this author but surely won’t be the last. Wonderful! I would like to thank NetGalley, the author J.H. (James) Markert, and the publisher for the advanced copy of the audiobook. Rarely do I give five stars but I really enjoyed this audiobook and will surely be sharing it with others whom I know will enjoy it as well!
The narrator did a wonderful job navigating through this story. The little details and twists (especially towards the end) were so well done. This was my first book by this author but surely won’t be the last. Wonderful! I would like to thank NetGalley, the author J.H. (James) Markert, and the publisher for the advanced copy of the audiobook. Rarely do I give five stars but I really enjoyed this audiobook and will surely be sharing it with others whom I know will enjoy it as well!
April 4, 2024
If I could give this book more than five stars I absolutely would. It made me cry several times and I am just so pleased with the ending. I absolutely adored this entire story, through and through.
October 3, 2018
This is a strange book. There’s no getting away from it, and it might not be for everybody, but it’s one you should read nonetheless- especially if you like your fantasy with a slice of American goodness.
What Blooms From Dust is set in Nowhere: a town slowly choking in the dustbowl of 1930s America. And it gets a shock when Jeremiah Goodbye returns: convicted of killing six men, Jeremiah is back to set things right.
This story is really beautifully written. There’s no getting away from it. It’s lyrical, evocative and manages to capture, in just a few lines, the utter despair and hopelessness that so many Americans must have felt, watching their livelihoods blow away, and the magical elements reflect this, pitting a vicious and hostile natural world against the power of human resilience. Reading more like a fable than anything else, it reminded me a lot of Jane Rosenberg LaForge’s The Hawkman, so if that was your bag, then you’ll love this.
What Blooms From Dust is set in Nowhere: a town slowly choking in the dustbowl of 1930s America. And it gets a shock when Jeremiah Goodbye returns: convicted of killing six men, Jeremiah is back to set things right.
This story is really beautifully written. There’s no getting away from it. It’s lyrical, evocative and manages to capture, in just a few lines, the utter despair and hopelessness that so many Americans must have felt, watching their livelihoods blow away, and the magical elements reflect this, pitting a vicious and hostile natural world against the power of human resilience. Reading more like a fable than anything else, it reminded me a lot of Jane Rosenberg LaForge’s The Hawkman, so if that was your bag, then you’ll love this.
February 18, 2018
Finished reading: February 16th 2018
"The land was just too strong and mean and too determined to break them. Just as they had broken it."
*** I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
September 2, 2018
A death row convict escapes his electric chair fate when prison walls are hit with an enormous tornado. Sensibly or not, he sets out on a journey back to his hometown to settle old scores because a coin flip (save that bit for later for coin flipping is crucial here!) says he should.
James Markert’s ‘What Blooms From Dust’ is almost fable-like. At least it bears all the characteristics of one as it is borderline fantastical. There are elements of the story that obviously couldn’t have occurred in real life but it doesn’t mean the message this book wants to convey has any less of an impact. That’s magical realism for you, at its best might I add, that has an uncanny ability to highlight certain aspects of an otherwise realistic tale to showcase important truths.
Jeremiah Goodbye, the main character, the provocateur, inspired heart-warming empathy in me. It was welcome but unexpected. Much as I love my anti-hero types, I don’t set out planning on loving a convict. He was intriguing as his darkness was alluring, all the more so since I wasn’t privy to the reasons behind it. Surely a man can’t be born evil so what was it that drove him to heavily drinking, brawling and ultimately – those killings he got convicted of?
Readers have to read almost the entirety of the story to find out and I, for one, didn’t mind the wait one bit. The pace was excellent, the slow reveal was satisfying and urging me on to continue for I would be gifted with more and more answers. Seldom there’s a story that so deeply makes sense even if it’s rooted in the inexplicable and (only) magically realistic. It was perfect the way it was constructed and if you have patience for it, if you want to dig even deeper and unveil the stones that, in my opinion, are better left unturned, then all the dust storms (a real thing occurring in nature though, right?), the randomly blooming roses, the sickness of numbness – they could make sense past the metaphoric meaning.
The story itself is best read if you know as little about it as possible. I recall reading the synopsis and feeling confused but that’s the way of magical realism so I was eager to get my hands on this ARC despite the initial confusion. It’s best devoured just is, page after page, even if some of it sounds strange. I promise, in the end it will all fall into place, a gem of creative writing to marvel at.
Seemingly it had all the tropes: brotherly resentment that was unfixable, hot tempered versus mild, anchor-like characters, forbidden love that cast so long a shadow on too many actions, a miracle in disguise, an outsider with a fresh perspective. We all know these from all over. Somehow they weren’t as you would expect, they weren’t obvious in their roles in the story, they evolved into them and bloomed within the story as it progressed. I really appreciated the way it was done.
Although I didn’t find this book to be particularly quotable (I tried) in a sense that sometimes some books are: just dropping lines, these perfect lines that encompass it all. With this book the entire story just works as an entity and thus it should be taken: as a whole.
I would recommend this to everyone who enjoys magical realism and historical fiction. The latter matters but not in a grave way, it’s the former that’s the selling point here. If you, by any chance, have seen the masterpiece of cinematography that was ‘The Fall’ with Lee Pace from 2006 and loved it (as I did, oh gosh SO much), don’t procrastinate and get to reading!
**massive thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing an arc in exchange for a fair and honest review**
James Markert’s ‘What Blooms From Dust’ is almost fable-like. At least it bears all the characteristics of one as it is borderline fantastical. There are elements of the story that obviously couldn’t have occurred in real life but it doesn’t mean the message this book wants to convey has any less of an impact. That’s magical realism for you, at its best might I add, that has an uncanny ability to highlight certain aspects of an otherwise realistic tale to showcase important truths.
Jeremiah Goodbye, the main character, the provocateur, inspired heart-warming empathy in me. It was welcome but unexpected. Much as I love my anti-hero types, I don’t set out planning on loving a convict. He was intriguing as his darkness was alluring, all the more so since I wasn’t privy to the reasons behind it. Surely a man can’t be born evil so what was it that drove him to heavily drinking, brawling and ultimately – those killings he got convicted of?
Readers have to read almost the entirety of the story to find out and I, for one, didn’t mind the wait one bit. The pace was excellent, the slow reveal was satisfying and urging me on to continue for I would be gifted with more and more answers. Seldom there’s a story that so deeply makes sense even if it’s rooted in the inexplicable and (only) magically realistic. It was perfect the way it was constructed and if you have patience for it, if you want to dig even deeper and unveil the stones that, in my opinion, are better left unturned, then all the dust storms (a real thing occurring in nature though, right?), the randomly blooming roses, the sickness of numbness – they could make sense past the metaphoric meaning.
The story itself is best read if you know as little about it as possible. I recall reading the synopsis and feeling confused but that’s the way of magical realism so I was eager to get my hands on this ARC despite the initial confusion. It’s best devoured just is, page after page, even if some of it sounds strange. I promise, in the end it will all fall into place, a gem of creative writing to marvel at.
Seemingly it had all the tropes: brotherly resentment that was unfixable, hot tempered versus mild, anchor-like characters, forbidden love that cast so long a shadow on too many actions, a miracle in disguise, an outsider with a fresh perspective. We all know these from all over. Somehow they weren’t as you would expect, they weren’t obvious in their roles in the story, they evolved into them and bloomed within the story as it progressed. I really appreciated the way it was done.
Although I didn’t find this book to be particularly quotable (I tried) in a sense that sometimes some books are: just dropping lines, these perfect lines that encompass it all. With this book the entire story just works as an entity and thus it should be taken: as a whole.
I would recommend this to everyone who enjoys magical realism and historical fiction. The latter matters but not in a grave way, it’s the former that’s the selling point here. If you, by any chance, have seen the masterpiece of cinematography that was ‘The Fall’ with Lee Pace from 2006 and loved it (as I did, oh gosh SO much), don’t procrastinate and get to reading!
**massive thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing an arc in exchange for a fair and honest review**
August 26, 2020
Thoroughly enjoyable!
Recommended for 12+
Recommended for 12+
March 3, 2024
What Blooms from Dust by J.H. Markert
Thank you so much NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ALC and the chance to review it honestly.
What Blooms from Dust is a mysterious and magical book with a great narrator. With J.H. Markert’s atmospheric writing plus the fantastic narration, this book was set up for success. I found this book to be unique and engaging in a way that had me focused on solely listening to it instead of doing things around the house like I normally would when listening to an audiobook. The magical realism aspects of the book were my favorite parts and the rest were just major pluses! This ended up being way more than I expected, in the best way. The last part of the book was phenomenal and that’s where you get answers to questions you may have had throughout the book. Overall, I enjoyed this one and it was truly beautiful.
Happy reading!
Thank you so much NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ALC and the chance to review it honestly.
What Blooms from Dust is a mysterious and magical book with a great narrator. With J.H. Markert’s atmospheric writing plus the fantastic narration, this book was set up for success. I found this book to be unique and engaging in a way that had me focused on solely listening to it instead of doing things around the house like I normally would when listening to an audiobook. The magical realism aspects of the book were my favorite parts and the rest were just major pluses! This ended up being way more than I expected, in the best way. The last part of the book was phenomenal and that’s where you get answers to questions you may have had throughout the book. Overall, I enjoyed this one and it was truly beautiful.
Happy reading!
July 4, 2018
3/5 stars
I received a free copy of this book, thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. My opinions remain uninfluenced by this.
Beautiful cover, interesting concept, not too well executed story.
'Filled with mystery and magic, this exquisite novel from award-winning author James Markert is a story of finding hope in the midst of darkness and discovering the beauty of unexpected kindness.'
Mystery, there was but it's overblown.
Magic, not so much as the kind you find in Harry Potter. More along the lines of 'miracles'.
Exquisite, not really.
Finding hope, check.
Discovering the beauty of unexpected kindness, check.
Those last two came about quite late in to the book and by a sole event. This story fell short of my expectations and I didn't know it was set in a wild-west world. It started out mysterious but eventually ended with 3 rounds of corniness that felt like the story had gone off-kilter from its original noir tone. The attempt at a mixed-genre of wild-west and supernatural reminded me of 'Cowboys & Aliens' but the dark entity in this book was never fully explained and was not the focal point of the story.
What 'What Blooms from Dust' does right is the depiction of a wild-west community, life during the 'Dust Bowl' era and the thunderous fear it strikes during a particularly monstrous storm. I really liked the part about the strange trance that descended upon the townsfolk after a malefic dust storm.
Overall, the story failed to capture my full interest. Recommend for wild-west fans and readers who like a movie-style cheesy ending.
I received a free copy of this book, thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. My opinions remain uninfluenced by this.
Beautiful cover, interesting concept, not too well executed story.
'Filled with mystery and magic, this exquisite novel from award-winning author James Markert is a story of finding hope in the midst of darkness and discovering the beauty of unexpected kindness.'
Mystery, there was but it's overblown.
Magic, not so much as the kind you find in Harry Potter. More along the lines of 'miracles'.
Exquisite, not really.
Finding hope, check.
Discovering the beauty of unexpected kindness, check.
Those last two came about quite late in to the book and by a sole event. This story fell short of my expectations and I didn't know it was set in a wild-west world. It started out mysterious but eventually ended with 3 rounds of corniness that felt like the story had gone off-kilter from its original noir tone. The attempt at a mixed-genre of wild-west and supernatural reminded me of 'Cowboys & Aliens' but the dark entity in this book was never fully explained and was not the focal point of the story.
What 'What Blooms from Dust' does right is the depiction of a wild-west community, life during the 'Dust Bowl' era and the thunderous fear it strikes during a particularly monstrous storm. I really liked the part about the strange trance that descended upon the townsfolk after a malefic dust storm.
Overall, the story failed to capture my full interest. Recommend for wild-west fans and readers who like a movie-style cheesy ending.
July 25, 2018
3.5 Stars!! Review originally from my blog Katy's Library Blog
Thank you so much TLC Book Tours for sending me copy of this book and for having me on this book tour!
From the second I started reading this book I had a southern twang voice in my head narrating as I read. I loved that this book sucked me in to the Dust Bowl era and Midwestern vibe. Slow moving but filled with hope and forgiveness I gave this book 3.5 stars.
I wasn't sure how I would feel about this book at first as, like I said, it was a bit slow moving. But I really ended up liking the characters. Jeremiah and Peter were my favorites and I enjoyed Ellen and Wilmington as well. Jeremiah was fresh out of jail on his way home to family that blamed him for events that happened years ago and Peter was a young boy being sold by his family so they could get some extra money. Their paths crossed and they ended up needing each other and I really like those kind of relationships. I also liked the back story to this small town and the way hope and family brought everyone through the tough times and the dusters.
The writing was well done too. I thought the tone was well captured and it set my mood while reading perfectly. However, I did think some things were a little too cheesy by the end. I don't want to give anything away so I won't go into it, I'll just say I don't always love too much cheese but I am glad it was a happy ending.
I think this is well worth a read especially if you love wild west type books with family, love, hope, and forgiveness thrown in!
Thank you so much TLC Book Tours for sending me copy of this book and for having me on this book tour!
From the second I started reading this book I had a southern twang voice in my head narrating as I read. I loved that this book sucked me in to the Dust Bowl era and Midwestern vibe. Slow moving but filled with hope and forgiveness I gave this book 3.5 stars.
I wasn't sure how I would feel about this book at first as, like I said, it was a bit slow moving. But I really ended up liking the characters. Jeremiah and Peter were my favorites and I enjoyed Ellen and Wilmington as well. Jeremiah was fresh out of jail on his way home to family that blamed him for events that happened years ago and Peter was a young boy being sold by his family so they could get some extra money. Their paths crossed and they ended up needing each other and I really like those kind of relationships. I also liked the back story to this small town and the way hope and family brought everyone through the tough times and the dusters.
The writing was well done too. I thought the tone was well captured and it set my mood while reading perfectly. However, I did think some things were a little too cheesy by the end. I don't want to give anything away so I won't go into it, I'll just say I don't always love too much cheese but I am glad it was a happy ending.
I think this is well worth a read especially if you love wild west type books with family, love, hope, and forgiveness thrown in!
February 20, 2024
The cover of this book is beautiful and honestly, that is what caught my attention on NetGalley. When I read the description, it mentioned magic so immediately I had to request it, because duh!
The book starts when Jeremiah escapes the electric chair due to a tornado hitting the prison. He was convicted of murdering 4 people and now he returns to his hometown of Nowhere, Oklahoma as a fugitive to have a reckoning with his brother. When he gets to town, it has been devastated by the dustbowl, and we learn that he is actually a good person.
The story follows, the twin brothers, Jeremiah and Josiah, their father and Josiah‘s wife, Ellen. Jeremiah also picked up a slightly strange boy on his way back to town as the weather continues to beat down the town, dirt makes everyone mean, and then they start to give up on living.
The writing is atmospheric and visceral, and the characters are gritty and real. The story combines fate, magic, and hope in a very powerful way. This was my first book by Markert and it will not be my last! Never thought I’d love a book about the depression but I loved the themes of hard work and decency throughout this book.
The book starts when Jeremiah escapes the electric chair due to a tornado hitting the prison. He was convicted of murdering 4 people and now he returns to his hometown of Nowhere, Oklahoma as a fugitive to have a reckoning with his brother. When he gets to town, it has been devastated by the dustbowl, and we learn that he is actually a good person.
The story follows, the twin brothers, Jeremiah and Josiah, their father and Josiah‘s wife, Ellen. Jeremiah also picked up a slightly strange boy on his way back to town as the weather continues to beat down the town, dirt makes everyone mean, and then they start to give up on living.
The writing is atmospheric and visceral, and the characters are gritty and real. The story combines fate, magic, and hope in a very powerful way. This was my first book by Markert and it will not be my last! Never thought I’d love a book about the depression but I loved the themes of hard work and decency throughout this book.
October 5, 2019
Wow, one of my favorites of the year! This is the first novel I've ever read that takes place during the dust bowl, so that in itself made this an compelling read. The author's descriptions of the conditions make you feel like you're there. The air feels thick and you can almost see the dust motes swirling in the air and coating your lashes and clothing. Not only was the setting very vivid and memorable - the characters were as well. I just loved the main character of Jeremiah Goodbye, a convicted felon who narrowly escapes death by electric chair and returns to his hometown to handle some unfinished business. What made this story even more compelling was the element of magical realism woven throughout this uniquely beautiful tale. I cannot wait to read more by this author!
February 21, 2024
A depression era supernatural tale full of twists you won’t see coming. The angst, suspense, and secrets make this a book you’ll want to read over and over. Themes of good vs evil, the human condition, and the power of kindness resonate throughout the story to leave the reader deep in thought. This will be one I recommend to everyone! The narrator absolutely brought this story to life.
June 22, 2018
I would like to thank netgalley for an ARC of What Blooms from Dust in exchange for my honest opinion.
Overall reaction: 3 stars- I liked it.
I like the overall concept of the book. I currently teach U.S. History and find most subjects related to the Great Depression fascinating. For historical fiction, I found this book to be a little far fetched. I liked the premise, convict escapes death row because of a tornado. It sounds like the type of legend that might arise during the Dust Bowl. However, when the main character, Jeremiah, accidentally purchases a child who has autism for a quarter, I just found myself saying that is totally absurd.
I did however like the general landscape of the story. It really does give readers an impression of how terrible the Dust Bowl was on the Great Plains.
Overall reaction: 3 stars- I liked it.
I like the overall concept of the book. I currently teach U.S. History and find most subjects related to the Great Depression fascinating. For historical fiction, I found this book to be a little far fetched. I liked the premise, convict escapes death row because of a tornado. It sounds like the type of legend that might arise during the Dust Bowl. However, when the main character, Jeremiah, accidentally purchases a child who has autism for a quarter, I just found myself saying that is totally absurd.
I did however like the general landscape of the story. It really does give readers an impression of how terrible the Dust Bowl was on the Great Plains.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2018
I have written before about books that are smarter than me. This is one of them. I just know that I missed things so I am definitely keeping this one to read again – it’s that kind of book. The kind of book that develops with each successive read. Your understanding of the characters and events will grow.
What Blooms From Dust is not your typical historical fiction novel. It does share the horror and despair of the Dust Bowl through the story of the people in Nowhere. Oklahoma. The founders of the town had moved there with promises of a majestic city already in place but found out that when they arrived there was … nothing. They decided to stick it out and the decisions they and others on the plains caused the ecological damage that when there was prolonged drought led to the Dust Bowl.
One family is the center of the tale, the Goodbyes. I am sure that name is purposeful and significant but I haven’t figured that out yet. Twin brothers Jeremiah and Josiah both love the same girl. Jeremiah has been in prison lately and had been set to be electrocuted but a tornado rolled through just as they pulled the switch and he was able to escape. He is heading back home to settle some scores.
Along the way he finds a woman selling one of her children as she claims she can’t afford to feed them. The boy is a little addled and repeats everything that is said to him. He also carries around a typewriter that he is constantly typing on.
There is so much to this tale that simply cannot be explained. I was hooked from the very first paragraph and I could not put it down. I seriously want to read it again but my reading schedule doesn’t allow the time for it right now. It is not a straightforward book as it does wander into the realm of magical realism and with books written like that you either go with the flow or you fight them the whole way. I am a very literal reader as I have mentioned before but there are authors that can break through that and Mr. Markert is one of them. I didn’t care that actions and events didn’t necessarily make sense in a real context. They made sense in this world. If you let them. And do, please do. This book was a magical exploration of love, redemption and perseverance.
What Blooms From Dust is not your typical historical fiction novel. It does share the horror and despair of the Dust Bowl through the story of the people in Nowhere. Oklahoma. The founders of the town had moved there with promises of a majestic city already in place but found out that when they arrived there was … nothing. They decided to stick it out and the decisions they and others on the plains caused the ecological damage that when there was prolonged drought led to the Dust Bowl.
One family is the center of the tale, the Goodbyes. I am sure that name is purposeful and significant but I haven’t figured that out yet. Twin brothers Jeremiah and Josiah both love the same girl. Jeremiah has been in prison lately and had been set to be electrocuted but a tornado rolled through just as they pulled the switch and he was able to escape. He is heading back home to settle some scores.
Along the way he finds a woman selling one of her children as she claims she can’t afford to feed them. The boy is a little addled and repeats everything that is said to him. He also carries around a typewriter that he is constantly typing on.
There is so much to this tale that simply cannot be explained. I was hooked from the very first paragraph and I could not put it down. I seriously want to read it again but my reading schedule doesn’t allow the time for it right now. It is not a straightforward book as it does wander into the realm of magical realism and with books written like that you either go with the flow or you fight them the whole way. I am a very literal reader as I have mentioned before but there are authors that can break through that and Mr. Markert is one of them. I didn’t care that actions and events didn’t necessarily make sense in a real context. They made sense in this world. If you let them. And do, please do. This book was a magical exploration of love, redemption and perseverance.
September 27, 2018
When a tornado knocks down the wall of a prison, Jeremiah Goodbye (also known as the Coin-Flip Killer) gets a startling reprieve from the electric chair. Setting out for his hometown of Nowhere, Oklahoma, he’s determined to put a bullet in the twin brother who turned him in to the authorities. But when “Black Sunday,” the worst dust storm in three years of dust storms, overtakes the town, Jeremiah starts to soften toward the people who’ve given up on life. With the help of an orphan boy named Peter, he tries to stop his home from disappearing off the map, digging out houses after each dust storm, eradicating the tarantulas that keep invading the buildings, and hoping against hope that some kindness can bloom in a harsh and barren land that’s been forgotten by its Maker.
This book was a complete and utter surprise. The gorgeous cover outside is matched by the gorgeous prose within. The oppressively suffocating setting of the Dust Bowl is poignantly rendered, as are each of the characters that connect to Jeremiah Goodbye in some way. Jeremiah’s strained relationship with his brother and convuluted relationship with his brother’s wife Ellen set the stage for a complex story about family, hardship, hope, and little deeds of love and mercy. The simplicity of Peter, a child who seems mentally handicapped and yet acts as the catalyst to revive the town, shows how the purest, most unadulterated kindness can come from the least of these.
There were a few parts towards the end of the book where the story dragged, but over all, I found this book a novel and fantastic read. Recommended.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This book was a complete and utter surprise. The gorgeous cover outside is matched by the gorgeous prose within. The oppressively suffocating setting of the Dust Bowl is poignantly rendered, as are each of the characters that connect to Jeremiah Goodbye in some way. Jeremiah’s strained relationship with his brother and convuluted relationship with his brother’s wife Ellen set the stage for a complex story about family, hardship, hope, and little deeds of love and mercy. The simplicity of Peter, a child who seems mentally handicapped and yet acts as the catalyst to revive the town, shows how the purest, most unadulterated kindness can come from the least of these.
There were a few parts towards the end of the book where the story dragged, but over all, I found this book a novel and fantastic read. Recommended.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
February 27, 2023
Oklahoma.
A few years ago I read Timothy Egan’s excellent The Worst Hard Time, a nonfiction book about the Dust Bowl. When I saw a NetGalley book of historical fiction set during the Dust Bowl, I quickly requested it.
I love historical fiction because it puts me in someone else’s head in another time. This novel did not disappoint.
In short, settlers came west to the land that had been taken from the American Indians. They settled there, endured hardships, and eventually prospered. However, the land had been used unwisely - native grasses were stripped for crops. It was the recipe for ecological disaster.
A drought hit during the Great Depression of the thirties. Great windstorms picked up dust with such strength that it destroyed crops, animals, shelters, and people. Storms were so massive that even New York and Washington D. C. felt the effects. These dust storms went on for years.
This story is about a family who came to Oklahoma during the early settlement and stayed to prosper - and then the hard times hit. Through the eyes of the residents of Nowhere, Oklahoma I experienced the Dust Bowl firsthand.
I’m so glad I read this - interesting and informative. Thank you, NetGalley, for allowing me an early read!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A few years ago I read Timothy Egan’s excellent The Worst Hard Time, a nonfiction book about the Dust Bowl. When I saw a NetGalley book of historical fiction set during the Dust Bowl, I quickly requested it.
I love historical fiction because it puts me in someone else’s head in another time. This novel did not disappoint.
In short, settlers came west to the land that had been taken from the American Indians. They settled there, endured hardships, and eventually prospered. However, the land had been used unwisely - native grasses were stripped for crops. It was the recipe for ecological disaster.
A drought hit during the Great Depression of the thirties. Great windstorms picked up dust with such strength that it destroyed crops, animals, shelters, and people. Storms were so massive that even New York and Washington D. C. felt the effects. These dust storms went on for years.
This story is about a family who came to Oklahoma during the early settlement and stayed to prosper - and then the hard times hit. Through the eyes of the residents of Nowhere, Oklahoma I experienced the Dust Bowl firsthand.
I’m so glad I read this - interesting and informative. Thank you, NetGalley, for allowing me an early read!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 22, 2018
I read this treasure in 2 days. Adored every word, and every character. Am now looking up other novels by this author, because his writing is the perfect split of kindness and magic. This is such a beautiful book that I’ll have to have a copy of my own (the one in my hand is from the library).
Read
January 28, 2019Review to come
February 2, 2024
The writing, the narration, the story, the characters, absolutely flawless!
Set in an era I don't usually read, in a place I don't usually read about, What Blooms From Dust is about a group of people who are swindled into buying homes in what they think is their dream town, but, they find nothing but dust. This was the dust bowl, the Oklahoma Panhandle, April 1935, in the midst of the great Depression that hit the the USA from 1929 to 1941, where people were seeking any escape from the crushing poverty they were under
President Franklin D. Roosevelt established a number of measures to help alleviate the plight of poor and displaced farmers like these. He also addressed the environmental degradation that had contributed to the Dust Bowl and a Roosevelt quote is included at the beginning of the book that sets the tone beautifully;
"The nation that destroys its soil, destroys itself"
The writing is simply stunning and David Bendena is the ideal narrator for this audiobook, He has a wonderful symbiosis with the narrative and is well suited to J H Markerts flow
I was right there, immersed in the mire and the hopelessness these people were feeling, the fortitude of Jeremiah Goodbye starting over, the bright, hopefful nature of Peter Cotton
The book has some incredibly skillful anchor points and I will leave you to discover thosee for yourself
This is a novel that has it all, when you feel utterly exhausted at the end, knowing you have experienced every emotion possible to the point of physical exertion
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this incredible literary work, for this will be a great in historical fiction. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
Set in an era I don't usually read, in a place I don't usually read about, What Blooms From Dust is about a group of people who are swindled into buying homes in what they think is their dream town, but, they find nothing but dust. This was the dust bowl, the Oklahoma Panhandle, April 1935, in the midst of the great Depression that hit the the USA from 1929 to 1941, where people were seeking any escape from the crushing poverty they were under
President Franklin D. Roosevelt established a number of measures to help alleviate the plight of poor and displaced farmers like these. He also addressed the environmental degradation that had contributed to the Dust Bowl and a Roosevelt quote is included at the beginning of the book that sets the tone beautifully;
"The nation that destroys its soil, destroys itself"
The writing is simply stunning and David Bendena is the ideal narrator for this audiobook, He has a wonderful symbiosis with the narrative and is well suited to J H Markerts flow
I was right there, immersed in the mire and the hopelessness these people were feeling, the fortitude of Jeremiah Goodbye starting over, the bright, hopefful nature of Peter Cotton
The book has some incredibly skillful anchor points and I will leave you to discover thosee for yourself
This is a novel that has it all, when you feel utterly exhausted at the end, knowing you have experienced every emotion possible to the point of physical exertion
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this incredible literary work, for this will be a great in historical fiction. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
February 22, 2024
This book absolutely immersed me in the dust bowl experience, and in a good way. It is the story of twin brothers Jeremiah and and Josiah Goodbye who long ago had a falling out when Josiah turned Jeremiah in to the police for four murders he did not commit. Jeremiah wins a reprieve when the electrocution that was supposed to kill him runs awry and he escapes. He travels back to Nowhere Oklahoma to take revenge against his brother and on the way picks up/rescues a young non verbal boy named Peter. When the dust settles on the brothers feud they have a truce of sorts. Jeremiah decides to stay in Nowhere and he and Peter move in to an abandoned home in town. Dust storms are common and sometimes deadly and the town people are just about done in by them, many of them have given up, but that is where Peter and Jeremiah can do their best work and help the towns people survive the hideous dust. There are elements of magical realism and the age old fight between good and evil interwoven throughout the story and I really, really liked these tropes. I love a story with a little bit of supernatural thrown in the mix. The characters are all well fleshed out and believable and I loved the underlying message of 'kindness breeds kindness'. The narrator was excellent and gave voice to each individual character. The author James H. Markert's writing and story telling style reminds me a little of one of my favorite authors Michael McDowell, although not as dark. I can highly recommend this book, especially the audio version.
Many thanks to Net Galley and the publisher Dreamscape Media for an ARC of this highly entertaining audiobook.
Many thanks to Net Galley and the publisher Dreamscape Media for an ARC of this highly entertaining audiobook.
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