Out of the Shadows

At first sight, this book looks freaky. Then, as you start to read it, its just WEIRD! Then, you want to scream and holler and tell certain of its characters to just work with the main character. I have lent this book out to many of my friends and we all love it. They each have said basically the same about it. It's very mysterious! Definately read it. And when you are done, read its sequel: Crown of Thorns. I like that book more.

You walk into your local Christian book store, and you see a cover such as this, with a title such as this, and you're thinking, "This is Christian?" OH YEAH! Brouwer introduces us to Nick Barrett in the first person, who, by the way, has only one leg, as the result of a car accident. But he travels back to Charlestown embittered by the past, but, when someone else pays for the plane ticket, you make exceptions, right? The fact of the matter is this: Nick is looking for answers. And to do that, he has to face some of his past. It isn't always easy. In fact, you might say that it could get downright dangerous and somebody could get killed! This was my first Brouwer book, and until you take the time to read it through, only then will you realize what the title, "Out of the Shadows" really means to Nick Barrett, and it nearly brings you to tears. A classic mystery where what you see isn't always what you think it may be. Brouwer shows a good Christian witness in this, and that makes it very much worth the reader's time. I'm glad I took my time with this one. Very well worth it! No regrets.

I know you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but it was the cover of "Out of the Shadows" that first got my attention. Dark and mysterious, it hints of intrigue in the South, of mystery and secrets and drama. And it accurately points to the success of Brouwer's writing.This is great fiction. With a strong hook in the prologue, Brouwer draws us into this modern-day mystery. Through a series of flashbacks, we follow Nick Barrett's search for his mother, his ex-wife, his blackmailers...and for secrets he isn't even aware of. Although the tension flags slightly through the middle of the tale, and the dialogue remains clipped, these characters come to life through solid storytelling. As the plot turns tighter, the author parcels out more and more secrets so that the last fifty pages fly by. What I thought would be a solid 4-star book became an enthusiastic 5-star recommendation after reaching the climax of this Southern mystery.If you've read "Double Helix" and had a lukewarm reaction, let Brouwer prove to you that he's grown as a writer. "Out of the Shadows" is a gripping story, with spiritual and emotional impact. Having only recently moved to Nashville, I've decided that Sigmund Brouwer is one of this areas best-kept Southern secrets.

Sigmond Brouwer has proved to me that not only can he write books that keep kids coming back but, he can write a captivating adult novel as well! "Out of the Shadows", is a story of greed, bitterness, forgiveness and redemption. The main character in this book is Nick Barrett who has returned to Charleston a town that he grew up in and vowed to never return to again. Charleston brings back the childhood memories of his mothers abandonment as well as a very short marriage as a teenager that are too hard to bear. He is sent an anonymous letter telling him to come back to Charleston with the promise that he will be given a chance to find out what happened to his mother. Thus begins a journey of finding out the truth for Nick. As Nick finds out more about his past and who he is, he also begins a spiritual journey back to God. There are twists and turns galore as well as a story of forgiveness and love. Any one who likes a good mystery will throughly enjoy this book!

Sigmund is not only a great writer but a good father too. This is so beautifully captured in the parent/child relationship of this suspensful novel. The pathos this son experiences as he discovers more truths of his mother ...well read for yourself. Once you crack open this book keep going, you will not be disappointed ...and oh the secrets you will discover of this wealthy southern town. So, pour yourself some sweet tea and enjoy another exercise in fine writing by a wonderful novelist. Thanks Sig for a few good hours!