Ricochet in Time

Having already read Lori's "Gun" duo, I wasn't sure what to expect from "Ricochet". I was not disappointed, because the book deals with a horrible crime with multi-layered characters, legal realism and consequences that have far-reaching effects. The book opens with action that grabs the reader right away, one can see the outcome but we go along for the ride, and then we watch the fall-out begin to affect so many more lives than just the main characters. It's been said by another reviewer that the characters are under-developed but even Dani's father is more than just cardboard! I could see Estelline right there, I could envision Ruth, and Grace, and I could definitely feel Dani's frustration during her first physio appointment! The main thrust of this story is the aftermath of a hate crime, but it is so much more than that. Simply put, this is a story that will amuse, anger, sadden and grab you on so many levels, you'll be hooked.

I first discovered Lori Lake when I read the online versions of Gun Shy and Under the Gun. I was so impressed by the way Lori told her stories that I had to purchase Gun Shy and Ricochet In Time (which was only available in printed form). Now I am eagerly awaiting the release of Under the Gun, as Lori has proven time and again, that she is an exceptional author who I have added to the ranks of my "must have" book collection.Ricochet In Time dealt with a subject that I personally have troubles understanding - hate crimes. I was terribly moved by the story of Danielle Corbett. Lori takes us from that fateful day that started out as a peaceful drive in the country for Dani and Meg, and turns into a nightmare at the hands of a person so full of hate and intolerance that he thinks nothing of mowing these people down on a deserted road and leaving them for dead.This story follows the results of this person's actions; how Dani comes to terms with the loss of Meg, and her inability to allow people to help her when she needs them the most.There are some very strong characters in this story. Right from Dani down to the three strangers (Grace, Ruth and spunky Estelline) that are willing to help Dani heal both physically and mentally from the accident that brought them together, the criminal trial and from the events in her past that prevent Dani from letting anyone get close to her emotionally before feeling the need to run away.I can't say enough about how good an author I think Lori Lake is. I found this book to be very thought provoking and even long after having read the last word, I find myself thinking back to how this book had touched on so many emotions. I laughed, I definitely cried, but mostly it made me think about the world around me and appreciate that there are far more tolerant and caring people out there and that maybe someday we won't have to experience firsthand or read about how someone was harmed or bullied for being perceived as "different". We all deserve to love and be loved. If you haven't read Lori's books yet, you are really missing out. I highly recommend them all.

It is no wonder that Lori Lake's books are best sellers. Her characters are deep-bodied, multidimensional, and convincing. Her plots unfold like pedals on a flower, coming to full bloom at just the right moment. Ricochet in Time is no exception. When Dani and her lover Meg are victims of a hate crime at the beginning of the story, it is anybody's guess how the plot will develop. Will the killer get away with it? Will Dani be able to pull herself together enough to pursue justice for her slain partner? Or will she run away as she has from trouble in the past? The interesting point, here, is that this particular plot element becomes the background for a much more interesting story. Meet Ruth and Estelline, Grace, Bryce, Cleve, and a whole host of distinct characters, all of whom interact in various important ways with Dani as she fights her way back to full health from her physical injuries and emotional pain. You'll have to read the book to see if the perpetrator of the hate crime is brought to justice. The outcome is far more surprising than you can guess. Ronald L. Donaghe is the author of The Blind Season and a professional book reviewer for Foreword Magazine.

Some have called Ricochet in Time an uber novel. I suppose it is that. It is also a work that transcends that definition and is, in the opinion of this writer, destined to become a classic. If I believed in such a thing as "the great American novel" I would say this is IT. Hands down. No questions asked. RiT is simply one of the best books I have ever had the privilege of reading.This is not a sci-fi novel of aliens and time travel. It is so much more than that.Ricochet in Time is a book that has the mystical power to make time stand still, at least for the reader. From the first pass of your eyes as they move along the opening paragraphs, you will be swept away. It is not a foreign place to which the writer takes us. Rather, she gives us a closer look at the small town world in which we all live. That Lori Lake allows us to see the bigot, the hate-monger, the wounded child and the soul healer with equal clarity speaks volumes as to not only her gift but also her humanity. Simply put: if you read only one book this year, let it be this one.

I was drawn in immediately to this story - the characters come alive and quickly slip into your heart. Lori L. Lake has written an excellent story about what bigotry and hate can do to not just the victim, but to those around them. The chain events that are unleased when two women stop off at a roadside bar to get a drink will surprise you, as well as make you stop and think. I would highly recommend this book to anyone!