Woods at Barlow Bend (Smith) - Book Reviews

Book Reviews
A week after finishing Jodie Cain Smith’s novel, The Woods at Barlow Bend, I can’t stop thinking about her characters and the mystery that surrounds the death of the beautiful and lively Addie Andrews.... When you open up this novel, you will forget it’s 2015 and that you have a life outside of the story.... But in a matter of seconds, after reading the author’s opening lines, the Alabama setting will be so familiar, you’ll wonder why you ever left... Because Jodie Cain Smith is such a skilled storyteller, her teenage narrator, Hattie, will wrap around your heart and settle in to stay.
Kathleen M Rodgers, author of Johnnie Come Lately and The Final Salute - Military Spouse Book Review


It was a pleasure to read a book that is so well-written. The fact that the novel is based on actual events was captivating from the start. Smith weaves magic, drawing us in to her grandmother's world. We are left not knowing what actually happened at Barlow Bend because only Hubbard Andrews knew.... Wholly satisfying.
Booklover - Amazon Customer Reviews


Cain-Smith is a passionate writer whose descriptive and captivating style grabs your attention and keeps you focused from page one to the end. You feel the fear, the courage, the grief, and the joy...in the character of Hattie.... A must read for mystery lovers as well as history lovers.
Wonderwoman - Amazon Customer Reviews


Couldn't put this book down. It was a quick read that flowed well and was easy to follow. I kept wanting to find out what happened next to Hattie and her family.... The story would be an excellent read even if it was complete fiction, but knowing it is based on a true story makes it all the more intriguing.
Christine Swadley - Amazon Customer Reviews


The book is a good read and descriptive of 1930s Alabama. Jodie Smith told the story for her family but the reading public is fortunate that she chose to share it with them too.
Jim Cox - Clarke County Democrat


"This would make a great book." It's a common thought after hearing a bit of family history, but few of us take the trouble. Kudos to Ms. Smith for sharing her well-researched family saga."
Michelle Strider, author of Homeless, Homecoming, and Hometown - Goodreads


Spirited, Strong Character Story. Great read! Really enjoyed this book. So many different characters and personalities. Lots of ups and downs...just like any of our lives if we are truly living. Highly recommended."
Sue Ann Simpson - Goodreads