Headcase

by Charles D. Thomas

Description

It's 2007 in Grand Rapids, Michigan and Jack Plowman has been forced to drop out of college to work on his recovery from schizophrenia. Just when he thinks life can't get any worse, the roommate that he's always hated turns up murdered, and Jack is the prime suspect. Afraid that he'll be railroaded for a crime he did not commit, Jack does something that he never thought he'd be able to do: hunt down a murderer. With help only from his Episcopal priest, Jack goes on a dangerous journey where it's not just his mental health that's put at risk...it's his life!

Biography

Charles D. Thomas is a writer and mental health professional from Portage, Michigan. He has worked in the community mental health system for over twenty years. This is his first novel.

My Perspective ~

Jack Plowman tells his own story, in great detail. Set in my hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Jack's story begins with the discovery that his roommate has been murdered. Jack's mental illness takes on a life of its own as he takes it upon himself to find the killer. Filled with mystery, intrigue, relationships and a bit of comedy, Headcase becomes a complicated yet fast paced mystery. Jack's religious convictions often take over his thoughts and actions, as he hears voices from God advising him in his quest for answers to this murder mystery. 

Inspirational, tragic, and sensational, Headcase kept my attention throughout. I enjoyed Jack's daily activities, and grew to like the guy quite a lot. I'd enjoy reading more about Jack as he travels through life. Very interesting read! There is only one thing that would have made the story even better, more proofreading. There were some distractions throughout the book that could have been eliminated by a bit more proofing before publication. That being said, I still enjoyed the book very much.

Warning: Language and violence

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book with no expectations for a positive review. All expressed opinions are my own.

Starting From Scratch

by Kate Lloyd
GIVEAWAY!

Description

En Alt Maedel—an old maid.

At age twenty-nine, that's what Eva Lapp considers herself. And who could argue with her? Finding a good Amish husband at her age will be next to impossible. Plus, Eva's unwarranted bad reputation in Lancaster County precedes her. Maybe living the Englisch life would be better.

Squeezed out of her childhood home by her brother's boisterous family, Eva finds lodging and a new job managing a small café at a local plant nursery. But the challenge of her new position isn't enough to distract from her current predicament.

To Eva's surprise, her first love, Jake Miller, suddenly returns to Lancaster County. Flooded with emotions and filled with questions about Jake's past, can Eva trust what she's feeling?

Jake and Eva face many obstacles in their quest for a fresh start in the community, but perhaps with God's help, they can find the redemption they both desperately need.

Biography

Author Kate Lloyd is a passionate observer of human relationships. A native of Baltimore, Kate spends time with family and friends in Lancaster County, PA, the inspiration for her best selling novels Leaving Lancaster, Pennsylvania Patchwork, and Forever Amish, the third book in the Legacy of Lancaster Trilogy. Her novel, A Letter from Lancaster County, released July 1, 2017.

My perspective ~

Once again Ms Lloyd creates a picturesque and action filled novel of Amish life in Lancaster County, PA. Eva Lapp is thrust into a life of independence rather unexpectedly, and is somewhat skeptical which direction her life is headed, even at the age of 29. Unsure of herself and concerned about past rumors she attempts to move forward with her life, still hopeful for a home and family of her own.

Numerous characters fill the pages of this Amish fictional tale, some likable, some not so much! Character development is well done, and as in the past this author captures and portrays the settings exceptionally well. I was transported to the countryside of Amish farms, and enjoyed the setting of a locally owned nursery with gift shop and cafe. 

Original and fast paced, Starting From Scratch is filled with lessons in living, particularly for one lonely Amish woman. Pick up a copy for a great reading experience, particularly if you love reading about the Amish way of life.

I received a copy of this book as a gift, with no expectations for a positive review. All expressed opinions are my own.

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