The Secret of Blackjack Woods

by Ashlen Brown

One summer evening, 12-year-old Jim Thomas is surprised by his mother's and sister's account of seeing a mysterious creature in their woods. Is it bigfoot? Thinking there has to be a reasonable explanation, Jim sets upon discovering the truth. In short time, Jim is faced with a being that supposedly doesn't exist. Before long, his new friend is in trouble, and only Jim and his family can save him.

Genres: Fantasy, Mystery

189 pages, Paperback

First published June 10, 2013

About the author

Ashlen Brown is the author of the Blackjack Woods series, which includes The Secret of Blackjack Woods, The Secret of Hoke Farm, and Beyond Blackjack Woods. She holds a master's degree in forensic science and biomedical sciences, but writing is what keeps her up late into the night. She grew up in the deep forest of Southeast Texas, which feeds much of her imagination for the Charlie stories.

Reviews

[Fontina LaRue · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED THIS BOOK! It was so much fun! I've always wondered what's out there when I'm out camping or whatever, and this is exactly the type of thing I would want to happen! I really liked the settings and characters, and I can't wait to read the next one.

[C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Totally unrealistic/unbelievable,but so sweet and fun, and the nicest family I've ever come across besides in~Saving Sailor: A Quirky Girl, A Faithful Dog, and One Unforgettable Summer (A.J., #1)by Renee Riva.

A delight to read.Wonderful to read of a close, loving brother and sister who are really nice to each other! They are two children who are not snarky or smart-mouthed, as too many are portrayed these days, that would have never been allowed when I was a child!

The author draws you into the scenes with remarkable skill.,and you will really care about the characters.

I won this book in a goodreads-first reads book giveaway.

Highly recommended for lovers of adventure, mystery, suspense, and great family dynamics. Want to read the second book~The Secret of Hoke Farm.

[Tet · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a very pleasant couple hours read; she created likable characters without making them caricatures. Great first book and I look forward to her future works.

[Lynn · Rating 1 out of 5]

The Secret of Blackjack Woods is an unbelievable tale about Jim and his family finding something scary in the woods near their house. The characters in this short tale are one dimensional and the dialogue is over dramatic and unrealistic. Descriptions and characterizations are underdeveloped and most are told to the reader rather than shown. The ending of the story is much too easy and too pat to be relatable. The idea for the story is a good one, but the execution is poor. Overall, a very disappointing read.

[L.B. Sedlacek · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very charming tale involving Bigfoot. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters and storyline were compelling. A very entertaining but sweet story.

[Pam · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute story about bigfoot. Great for older children and teens.