Recovering Charles

I almost put this book aside because the first few chapters bored me. If this happens to you, don't!!! It picks up big time and you'll be utterly transformed. The devastating storm of Katrina is brilliantly depicted as the main character wanders around the New Orleans area after the storm looking for his father. The television coverage was good of Katrina, but this book makes it even more descriptive of the utter ruin of people's lives. I could smell the stench of the Convention Center where the victims went for shelter. Articulately written.

This spellbinding tale left me speechless for several hours after finishing it as I processed the various situations and emotions that must have been felt by the characters. I often find myself relating to one of the main characters, but in an interesting twist- I found myself relating to each one of the main characters in this story in different circumstances in my life. Jason has hit the very core of so many emotions we all experience at one time or another during our lives: love denied, loss, estrangement, natural disasters, fear and betrayal. Yet in his powerful way he weaves these difficult emotions into a story of healing, hope, faith and binding love. I highly recommend this story to everyone who yearns to see the difficult circumstances of our lives become the strength and joy that sees us through to the next day.

What a great book. Jason Wright has once again done a fantastic job of looking into the "typical" family and bringing out a wonderful story. The line of second chances and redemption is so powerful. The scenes in New Orleans after Katrina were so well written I felt I was there experiencing it myself. It made me laugh, cry and most of all feel good.

He's done it again! Wright's latest novel, Recovering Charles, is most engaging. I was engrossed in the story right from the first sentence. Wright's character development and plot twists combine for great story telling. I would recommend this work to anyone looking for a great read!

I love the ideas of redemption, second chances, and turning things around. I love the ways those ideas were presented in this very readable and entertaining book about a young man seeking out his father. Luke Millward is a relatable and likable main character, and Wright's sense of setting and place is impeccable, as always.