When Crickets Cry

I've just finished When Crickets Cry written by Charles Martin. What a joy to read. The dynamics between all the characters is realistic and relatable. And the information about crickets and transplants most interesting but not over the top. In turns heartbreaking and joyful, the story grabs you and doesn't let go until the very last full stop. Highly recommended, and I'm so looking forward to reading more of his books.

When Crickets Cry” is one of those rare books that touches both the heart and the soul. Charles Martin has a gift for weaving deep emotion with beautifully written prose. The story of Reese and Annie is tender, heartbreaking, and ultimately full of hope and redemption. The characters feel so real that you can’t help but root for them — flawed, courageous, and human in every way. Martin’s descriptions are vivid and lyrical, painting scenes you can see and feel. Beyond being a love story, it’s also a powerful exploration of loss, forgiveness, and second chances. This isn’t just a book you read; it’s one you experience. It made me laugh, cry, and reflect on what truly matters in life. I can’t recommend it highly enough.

The first book I read by Mr. Martin was “Long Way Gone.” The writing was so well done and the story so moving, that I looked for another of his books. This book, “When Crickets Cry”, was as good as the first. His stories are so unpredictable and fresh. There is no foreshadowing of where the story is going so every word, sentence, phrase is like opening a gift. This story chronicles Reese’s love affair with a small, strong, beautiful little girl, Annie, with a heart of gold. She is loved by everyone she encounters, but she is expected to die unless they find a new heart for her. At this point, the reader could put the book aside expecting that the little girl will get a new heart and there will be a nice happy ending, but there is so much more to the story. Reese, the protagonist, slowly tells his story intertwined with hers. Subtle hints are dropped along the way that let us know he has a deep and sad story that he keeps hidden from himself and the world. Mr. Martin takes us on a long, engaging, interesting, and emotional journey to save Annie. Note: I gave it 4 stars because I don't like story lines that are obvious. We know how the story will end, but it's a trip through small town America and the lives of those who live there. Bon appetit…

What a great book it’s sorta drags a little at the start but then I couldn’t put the book down .A good read Simple story

This was a moving story that was an absolute page turner! I am not sure why this book has not been given even more attention, as it was one of the better books I read during the year. I highly recommend it. This is a tender and moving story that doesn't disappoint!

Excellent book by Charles Martin. Very descriptive so that you feel you are a part of the story. Read in two days and it was hard to put down. Charles Martin is a Christian and his writings display his faith. I would recommend this book to everyone. Suzan Wade

Another excellent story in the Murphy Shepherd series! I cannot recommend this series more highly. I like ALL of Charles Martin's books. This is one of my favorite stand-alone ones.

Definitely a page turner, beautiful setting, complex characters and plenty of redemption for everyone! A good wholesome book that tells the story of people dealing with terrible loss and trying life circumstances. It might help answer why bad things happen to good people for some. Gods hand and his grace are well intertwined with our main characters! My only grievance was the back story of Reese. He may have been described by Trump describing himself! He was the best at everything! The world’s best heart surgeon, rowing champion, best boat refurbisher, best carpenter, best McGiver! Caries a flashlight, medical kit, survival knife, all on his belt? Really? But besides the fact this perfect person could never exist it was a great read! I recommend it with an open mind that is…

This is a wonderful book which I can heartily recommend to you. I also recommend this author who I love so much that I pay full cover price for his books as soon as they are published.

If you like good literature then this book is for you. Charles Martin has the ability to use the written word to describe a person's inner feelings and fears. The main character has suffered a traumatic experience and has retreated and rejected his former life and friends. His emotional climb back to his former self is beautifully described. We begin to understand his dilemma and his inner demons. His writing reminds me of the style of James Lee Burke. Whereas the latter describes crimes and their consequences, the former describes personal failures and how they affect, not only your own, but other people who are close to you.

This book is outstanding!

Everyone who loves a really good book must read this one. Its so beautifully written and so moving. Its a long timesince i have been unable to continue because I could not see through the tears. Thank you Charles Martin.

A beautifully written book and heartfelt story. The characters are engaging and the theme is interwoven so well. My only criticism is The medical descriptions were even a bit too much for me with some knowledge. But overall, recommended.