Not My Ruckus

By: Chad Musick

Narrated by: Ivy Tara Blair

Folks know 14-year-old Clare isn't normal, even for a tomboy. She runs too much, talks too little, carries a gun too often, and holds a grudge forever. Only her papa's job at the bank keeps gossip quiet. It's unwise to risk the cold anger of the man who knows everyone's secrets.

Clare feels prepared for everything from fire, to flood, to demon attack. When her neighbor Esther kisses her, though, Clare has no ready script. Maybe she could write one, given time she doesn't have. At the moment of that first kiss, Esther's mom is bleeding out from a gunshot wound.

Clare can read the signs everyone else is determined to ignore. A murder was only the beginning. Esther needs protection, whether she wants it or not, and Clare won't abandon her friend just because things are hard.

Maybe one day she'll be forgiven for doing what's needed.

This an intense book that may upset some listeners. A list of content notes can be found on the publisher website.

©2021 Chad Musick (P)2021 Chad Musick

Incredible writing

The characters were so vivid and the storytelling raw and unfiltered. I highly recommend this engrossing read!

What a Journey

The combination of highly intentional, shocking, and engaging writing alongside an inspired, provoking, and fully embodied narration really makes this audiobook a home run. The scenes throughout are truly heavy, but Lilac's journey had me pulling along the whole way. Ivy Tara Blair takes us in starting right with her delivery of the opening sentence, and drives us home (all the way to the gas station in the final scene). I'll be remembering this one in my head for a while, perhaps as loudly as the sound of a fire burning.