I picked up the audio version of this book, by author John Berendt, for my trip to North Carolina. I had no idea what to expect because I had quickly read the back cover to see if it sounded interesting.

It was VERY interesting. It is the true tales of the author’s interactions in Savannah, Georgia. He originally went down there just for a weekend getaway, but ended up living there for a while. The colorful characters suck you in and keep you wondering just what they are going to do next.

There is Joe Odom, who is a lawyer, but spends most of his day playing his Steinway piano and socializing with whoever happens to be visiting at the time. He never locks his front door because he got tired of having to answer it. He figures that if you’re a friend you’re going to walk in and help yourself to his house, so if there’s a knock at the door then it’s probably somebody he’s looking to avoid (creditors, cops, old ladies with hammers, etc).

We are introduced to Minerva, a voo-doo woman who tries to help the outcome of a murder trial where the local, and very influential, antiques dealer has been accused of killing his employee (and supposed lover) during a heated argument. His lawyer happens to be the owner of UGA, the University of Georgia’s bulldog mascot.

There are numerous other characters whom you meet in this twisting and turning tale. All of this is set against the beautiful backdrop of Savannah, a town where old blood and old money are what matters. This book kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time, always wondering what weird character or situation was going to pop up next. I would highly recommend it if you’re looking for something to capture your interest without taxing your brain. 🙂

P.S.- Thank you to my friend Jamie for showing me how to post the covers of books!