Cindy Sproles

Wow! I felt like I was in a different world when I read Coal Black Lies. The moment I picked up this book I was transported to another time and place, the Appalachia coming alive in my mind like never before. I have never read anything by this author before, but I plan on reading everything I can get my hands on. Cindy Sproles has an amazing talent for bringing an unknown world to life with her words and captured my heart and imagination in her telling.

It has often been said that money is the root of all evil and that is plainly seen in this novel. I could feel the heart of the Appalachia as I read the descriptions of rural Kentucky at the turn of the century. I hate hearing about the conditions of the coal mines and what the poor men and families went through to survive during this time. It’s a nasty black stain on our nation’s history, that’s for sure, and it cast a darker shadow on this novel, along with other, darker subject matter. I was very thankful for the shorter chapters for this highly emotional and layered story.

I appreciated that the dialogue felt authentic and believable for the era and area, and the whole novel felt so natural that if you told me this was a true story I’d easily believe you. In my mind, a long time ago, these people existed in the mountains, and I was lucky enough to hear their tales of loss, love, and the fight for truth against the forces of evil.

One of the most surprising things happened as I was finishing the novel. I actually had to put the book down and started crying! The culmination of the story and the breathtaking picture of grace was so blindingly vivid that I whispered, “Wow…” as tears filled my eyes and I had to take a moment, praising God for all of His goodness. I finished the last few pages with tears staining my cheeks and my heart full. God really does know exactly what you need when you need it. Praise be! I cannot tell you the last time I had this happen while reading something other than the Bible.

Yes, this is a heavy read with some deep subject matter, but the message is so incredibly powerful that it is worth the read. I cannot recommend this novel and this author enough!

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.… (more)

I love books based in the Appalachian area and this one was so good and tugged at the heart strings a bit. Joshua and his wife are still grieving the death of their daughter when a blonde little girl shows up in their field. She is dirty, hungry and won't speak but Joshua knows she needs to be taken care of. His wife can hardly believe her eyes. Was God sending them another child to care for? Where did this little girl come from? Who is she and just what was she doing on their land? So when the Barton's come sniffing around, asking about a lost child, Joshua knows something isn't right. The Barton's pretty much own the area with their mountain being where all the men work and as they continue to get richer, the mountain folks only continue to get more poor. Joshua having gotten out from under the Barton's mines knows he has had a target on his back since and he will do anything to protect this child. But little does Joshua and Raney know what they are getting themselves into and the mystery behind this little girl. Loved this one so much! Historical, emotional, some mystery and a wonderful ending. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.… (more)

Coal Black Lies was one of my most anticipated reads of the year. I was not disappointed! Set in Kentucky coal country in 1899, this is a touching, heart-wrenching tale driven by greed and lies. Ms. Sproles brings the Appalachian culture to life with her vivid descriptions and use of the unique dialect of the rural mountain people. Expertly placed unexpected twists kept me guessing at the outcome. Compelling characters kept me emotionally invested from beginning to end. I fell in love with Aughtie, a thoughtfully portrayed, precious child with disabilities, whose sweet innocence and pure love affect all those around her. I greatly appreciate the strong faith thread with themes of forgiveness and redemption. I love this story and highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions of my own.… (more)