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Rattlesnake
The desert town of Rattlesnake isn’t a destination. It’s a last resort. Seventeen-year-old Jonah Guthrie’s aunt sold their home in New England and fled to this place to escape the humiliation of his dad’s indictment for embezzlement and subsequent disappearance.
While their late uncle left them a house and a silver mine, the house is a shambles and the mine is defunct. They’re almost out of money, so they have no choice but to stay in Rattlesnake. And then Jonah discovers they’ve inherited something else. Her name is Catherine, and she’s been dead for over a hundred year. Now, she needs his help.
While their late uncle left them a house and a silver mine, the house is a shambles and the mine is defunct. They’re almost out of money, so they have no choice but to stay in Rattlesnake. And then Jonah discovers they’ve inherited something else. Her name is Catherine, and she’s been dead for over a hundred year. Now, she needs his help.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2023
1 person is currently reading
5 people want to read
About the author
C. Lee McKenzie
24 books420 followers
I’ve moved to Substack and dropped my WordPress blog. Quelle liberté! You can see all of my work on Amazon, and I'd love to connect with you on and Instagram, too!In my other life--the one before I began writing for publication--I was a teacher and administrator at California State University, San Jose. My field of Linguistics and intercultural communication has carried me to a lot of places in the world to explore different cultures and languages. I can say, “Where’s the toilet?” and “I’m lost!” in at least five languages and two dialects. Go ahead. Pat me on the back.
My idea of a perfect day is one or all of the following: starting a new novel, finishing writing a blockbuster novel, hiking on a misty morning trail in the Santa Cruz Mountains, saying Namaste after a great yoga practice, sipping a cappuccino at a bustling café, reading in front of a fire with snow outside, swimming in an ocean someplace.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
December 18, 2023
This story will appeal to those who enjoy time travel and paranormal books.
Jonah and Allie, along with their Aunt Margaret, move from New Hampshire to Rattlesnake, Nevada. This is what some might classify as a dying town. I don't remember the population, but around 500 sounds right. So you can imagine what sort of folks live here and what environment these newcomers might face. There is a bully that runs the town, with his son a bully at the high school. The townfolks are very closed-minded and do not like outsiders at all, save a few.
I enjoyed watching the story unfold, from learning to navigate a new high school to trying to figure out what this ghost needs help with. Both kids are dealing with more than they should have in their lives, not only with the move but with trying to come to terms with the allegations against their father. Margaret is trying to support their little family, but it is hard to gain acceptance from the local residents, which in turn makes it hard for her to find a job.
Jonah is a bit of a wild card. He isn't afraid to go after what he wants or stand up to the local bully, Snake. He can also see a ghost that needs his help in finding something, but she doesn't know what. It takes an unusual turn of events for Jonah to figure out what she needs help with and then try to assist 100 years in the future.
This story is fraught with emotions, from loneliness to fear to desperation. There is even a little romance in the story. It depicts what people might encounter if in a similar situation. There is a silver lining at the end. It will appeal to a wide variety of readers, not just those who like young adult or paranormal aspects in their novels.
We give this book 4 paws up.
Jonah and Allie, along with their Aunt Margaret, move from New Hampshire to Rattlesnake, Nevada. This is what some might classify as a dying town. I don't remember the population, but around 500 sounds right. So you can imagine what sort of folks live here and what environment these newcomers might face. There is a bully that runs the town, with his son a bully at the high school. The townfolks are very closed-minded and do not like outsiders at all, save a few.
I enjoyed watching the story unfold, from learning to navigate a new high school to trying to figure out what this ghost needs help with. Both kids are dealing with more than they should have in their lives, not only with the move but with trying to come to terms with the allegations against their father. Margaret is trying to support their little family, but it is hard to gain acceptance from the local residents, which in turn makes it hard for her to find a job.
Jonah is a bit of a wild card. He isn't afraid to go after what he wants or stand up to the local bully, Snake. He can also see a ghost that needs his help in finding something, but she doesn't know what. It takes an unusual turn of events for Jonah to figure out what she needs help with and then try to assist 100 years in the future.
This story is fraught with emotions, from loneliness to fear to desperation. There is even a little romance in the story. It depicts what people might encounter if in a similar situation. There is a silver lining at the end. It will appeal to a wide variety of readers, not just those who like young adult or paranormal aspects in their novels.
We give this book 4 paws up.
December 24, 2023
I'm an ardent fan of C. Lee McKenzie's work, and this book solidified her place as one of my all-time favorite authors.
Delving into a story tinged with supernatural elements was an irresistible pull for me, and I must say, I was completely riveted from start to finish. McKenzie's prose possesses an enchanting quality that effortlessly draws you in, compelling you to keep turning page after page.
Within this tale, you'll uncover a captivating blend of suspense, mystery, and a forbidden love that adds an enthralling layer to the narrative. One of the standout aspects is McKenzie's adept portrayal of Catherine, a ghost suspended between the realms of the living and the dead. Her depiction of Catherine's pathos, confusion, and poignant loneliness is so vividly rendered that you'll find yourself longing to offer comfort, if only touch were possible.
The introduction of Jonah, a teenage newcomer to the town of Rattlesnake, immediately pulls you into a world brimming with both potential and danger. The town lives up to its foreboding name, harboring inhabitants like the menacing store owner, Boone, and his troubled son, aptly named Snake. Amidst this atmospheric setting, Jonah's spirited aunt and quick-witted sister, Allie, contribute to the captivating dynamics of the relocated family.
Notably, the abandoned gold mine on their property serves as a catalyst for unraveling secrets buried deep in the past—a mystery entwined with Catherine's existence and a long-unsolved murder.
As Jonah and his sister navigate the enigmatic world of spirits, they quickly realize that engaging with a ghost isn't merely a stroll into history but an entrance into a perilous realm fraught with danger.
This book is an absolute page-turner, effortlessly gripping your attention with each chapter. If you're seeking a tale that seamlessly weaves suspense, mystery, and supernatural intrigue into a compelling narrative, then this book is an absolute must-buy. Trust me, you'll find yourself completely absorbed, just as I was, glued to the enthralling story that unfolds with every turn of the page.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight Teen and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Delving into a story tinged with supernatural elements was an irresistible pull for me, and I must say, I was completely riveted from start to finish. McKenzie's prose possesses an enchanting quality that effortlessly draws you in, compelling you to keep turning page after page.
Within this tale, you'll uncover a captivating blend of suspense, mystery, and a forbidden love that adds an enthralling layer to the narrative. One of the standout aspects is McKenzie's adept portrayal of Catherine, a ghost suspended between the realms of the living and the dead. Her depiction of Catherine's pathos, confusion, and poignant loneliness is so vividly rendered that you'll find yourself longing to offer comfort, if only touch were possible.
The introduction of Jonah, a teenage newcomer to the town of Rattlesnake, immediately pulls you into a world brimming with both potential and danger. The town lives up to its foreboding name, harboring inhabitants like the menacing store owner, Boone, and his troubled son, aptly named Snake. Amidst this atmospheric setting, Jonah's spirited aunt and quick-witted sister, Allie, contribute to the captivating dynamics of the relocated family.
Notably, the abandoned gold mine on their property serves as a catalyst for unraveling secrets buried deep in the past—a mystery entwined with Catherine's existence and a long-unsolved murder.
As Jonah and his sister navigate the enigmatic world of spirits, they quickly realize that engaging with a ghost isn't merely a stroll into history but an entrance into a perilous realm fraught with danger.
This book is an absolute page-turner, effortlessly gripping your attention with each chapter. If you're seeking a tale that seamlessly weaves suspense, mystery, and supernatural intrigue into a compelling narrative, then this book is an absolute must-buy. Trust me, you'll find yourself completely absorbed, just as I was, glued to the enthralling story that unfolds with every turn of the page.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight Teen and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 19, 2023
“In the distance, looming just above the hood of the van, a wooden two-story house simmered under the late desert sun. The roof dipped in the middle like an old hammock, and the building sagged to one side, seemingly too tired to stay upright much longer.”
When 17-year-old Jonah, his sister Allie, and their Aunt Margaret move thousands of miles across the country, they don’t expect their inheritance to be a complete disaster. Nor do they expect that their “new” house comes with a resident—a beautiful gray-eyed ghost named Catherine. Catherine has unfinished business, and she needs Jonah’s help so she can set matters right and finally be at peace.
Filled with suspense and authentic details of life in the stark Nevada desert, Rattlesnake weaves a tale of time travel, romance, and the difficulty of facing trouble head-on. From dealing with bullies, prejudice, and family trauma to trying to find clues to right a century-old wrong, Jonah takes readers on a compelling adventure that will keep them turning the page for more.
When 17-year-old Jonah, his sister Allie, and their Aunt Margaret move thousands of miles across the country, they don’t expect their inheritance to be a complete disaster. Nor do they expect that their “new” house comes with a resident—a beautiful gray-eyed ghost named Catherine. Catherine has unfinished business, and she needs Jonah’s help so she can set matters right and finally be at peace.
Filled with suspense and authentic details of life in the stark Nevada desert, Rattlesnake weaves a tale of time travel, romance, and the difficulty of facing trouble head-on. From dealing with bullies, prejudice, and family trauma to trying to find clues to right a century-old wrong, Jonah takes readers on a compelling adventure that will keep them turning the page for more.
December 12, 2023
Great ghost story for teens and adults
What a great read on a winter evening when a fictional ghostly character is just what you need to make you appreciate a quiet life. This book makes you turn the pages to find out what happens next. Taking place in the relatively recent past and in 1865, it features a mystery or two, two teenagers trying to make their way in a town that doesn’t want them, and a young ghost that needs their help so she can rest in piece. In addition to its ghosts, it includes a beautiful evocation of a silver mining town down on its luck in 1998, but dangerous in 1865, some romance, a dysfunctional family, and a wonderful Christmas ending. Might be intended for a YA audience but adults will enjoy it too…
What a great read on a winter evening when a fictional ghostly character is just what you need to make you appreciate a quiet life. This book makes you turn the pages to find out what happens next. Taking place in the relatively recent past and in 1865, it features a mystery or two, two teenagers trying to make their way in a town that doesn’t want them, and a young ghost that needs their help so she can rest in piece. In addition to its ghosts, it includes a beautiful evocation of a silver mining town down on its luck in 1998, but dangerous in 1865, some romance, a dysfunctional family, and a wonderful Christmas ending. Might be intended for a YA audience but adults will enjoy it too…
November 15, 2023
Allie and Jonah, a brother and sister from New Hampshire, along with their aunt, find themselves in Rattlesnake, Nevada. It’s an old mining town. Having inherited a house and mine from an uncle, they move with the hopes of rebuilding their lives. Allie and Jonah, whose mother died, and father has disappeared, struggle in their new school. Their aunt attempts to find employment while working on the inhabitable house which also appears to be haunted. The town itself seems to conspire against them. Jonah falls for a girl named Juliet. Unfortunately, she is attached to a bully named Snake. Another boy named Galvin befriends Jonah and the two make the basketball team. Galvin is also interested in Allie.
As Jonah attempts to get revenge on Snake, something goes wrong. Allie and Jonah find themselves transported back into time, where they meet Catherine, the ghost in their home. She, too, is from a family without a mom. Her father is accused of murder and hanged. To save her father’s name and reputation, she needs Jonah’s help. Without giving away the details, things work out.
While I am never been drawn to ghost stories, I enjoyed this book. Of course, I couldn’t help to draw parallels between Jonah and Allie’s new home in Rattlesnake and my own experience in Virginia City, Nevada. A few things were too similar. Rattlesnake had a Bucket of Venom Saloon while Virginia City has a Bucket of Blood. Both communities in history had Chinese sections which provided firewood and vegetables among other things. Allie and Jonah move into Rattlesnake toward the end of summer, the same time I moved to Virginia City. McKenzie capture many of the experiences I had, such as the sun slipping behind the mountain earlier and the coming cold weather that happens in the desert mountains. Although I didn’t have a ghost muse named Catherine to draw me into an interest in history, I became obsessed with the community. In my last few months in Virginia City, about once a week I’d spent an afternoon in the Nevada Historical Society achieves at the University of Nevada, Reno. Later, I would write a dissertation on the community.
I recommend this book to middle school and high school age young adults. The book points out the danger of bullying, and of not speaking up for what is right. Hopefully, the reader will learn there are noble things we should do, if we can, to make things right.
The author provided me a copy of the book before publication for an honest review. This is the fourth book I’ve read by McKenzie. I appreciate how she addresses issues faced by our youth.
As Jonah attempts to get revenge on Snake, something goes wrong. Allie and Jonah find themselves transported back into time, where they meet Catherine, the ghost in their home. She, too, is from a family without a mom. Her father is accused of murder and hanged. To save her father’s name and reputation, she needs Jonah’s help. Without giving away the details, things work out.
While I am never been drawn to ghost stories, I enjoyed this book. Of course, I couldn’t help to draw parallels between Jonah and Allie’s new home in Rattlesnake and my own experience in Virginia City, Nevada. A few things were too similar. Rattlesnake had a Bucket of Venom Saloon while Virginia City has a Bucket of Blood. Both communities in history had Chinese sections which provided firewood and vegetables among other things. Allie and Jonah move into Rattlesnake toward the end of summer, the same time I moved to Virginia City. McKenzie capture many of the experiences I had, such as the sun slipping behind the mountain earlier and the coming cold weather that happens in the desert mountains. Although I didn’t have a ghost muse named Catherine to draw me into an interest in history, I became obsessed with the community. In my last few months in Virginia City, about once a week I’d spent an afternoon in the Nevada Historical Society achieves at the University of Nevada, Reno. Later, I would write a dissertation on the community.
I recommend this book to middle school and high school age young adults. The book points out the danger of bullying, and of not speaking up for what is right. Hopefully, the reader will learn there are noble things we should do, if we can, to make things right.
The author provided me a copy of the book before publication for an honest review. This is the fourth book I’ve read by McKenzie. I appreciate how she addresses issues faced by our youth.
November 5, 2023
Two young people struggling with family mysteries are drawn to each other in the rough Nevada mining area of Rattlesnake. The only problem is, Catherine is long dead, unable to rest because of a series of troubling events she is truggling to recall and resolve. Long after the mining boom turned to a bust, 17-year-old Jonah, his sister, Allie, and his Aunt Margaret move into the ramshackle house that once belonged to Catherine's family. The unquiet ghost recognizes another unquiet spirit and begs Jonah to help her find answers to the unresolved questions that keep her from finding peace.
Jonah and Allie are happy to leave New Hampshire, where scandal hung over the family. Though childless herself, Margaret has suddenly become their guardian and hopes to make ends meet by moving them to Rattlesnake. None of them is prepared for what they find there. Not only are they outsiders in a closed, suspicious community, they have also inherited a rundown property shadowed by scandal and inhabited by a ghost.
McKenzie's novel is a mystery that deals deftly with time travel and a ghost. It also addresses the ever-present issue of bullying, the loneliness of outsiders, and the pain of not knowing the truth about family scandals. Into the mix she adds sibling rivalry and feelings of abandonment. Anyone who has started over in a new school, home or job will empathize with the unrootedness felt by all the characters, both living and dead. As with any harrowng experience, the possibility of recovery and redemption are always present but never certain.
The author adds enough action (a collapsing mineshaft, threats of violence) and uncertainty (time travel that just might not end), and relationship challenges (for both teens and adults) to keep readers wanting to know what will happen next. I am well beyond the young adult years of the book's intended audience, but I found myself reading quickly, caught up in the story and wanting to know the answers to the questions that kept the young protagonists on edge. My thanks to the author for an advance review copy.
Jonah and Allie are happy to leave New Hampshire, where scandal hung over the family. Though childless herself, Margaret has suddenly become their guardian and hopes to make ends meet by moving them to Rattlesnake. None of them is prepared for what they find there. Not only are they outsiders in a closed, suspicious community, they have also inherited a rundown property shadowed by scandal and inhabited by a ghost.
McKenzie's novel is a mystery that deals deftly with time travel and a ghost. It also addresses the ever-present issue of bullying, the loneliness of outsiders, and the pain of not knowing the truth about family scandals. Into the mix she adds sibling rivalry and feelings of abandonment. Anyone who has started over in a new school, home or job will empathize with the unrootedness felt by all the characters, both living and dead. As with any harrowng experience, the possibility of recovery and redemption are always present but never certain.
The author adds enough action (a collapsing mineshaft, threats of violence) and uncertainty (time travel that just might not end), and relationship challenges (for both teens and adults) to keep readers wanting to know what will happen next. I am well beyond the young adult years of the book's intended audience, but I found myself reading quickly, caught up in the story and wanting to know the answers to the questions that kept the young protagonists on edge. My thanks to the author for an advance review copy.
November 16, 2023
Past and present weave tightly together to cast a tale full of mystery, longing, and heart.
After his father's indictment and disappearance, Jonah and his sister follow their aunt in a last effort to a small town, where his uncle has left them property. Not only is the house as broken as their lives, but Jonah soon meets the ghost of a girl, who'd lived there long before...and her history isn't any gentler than his. Or so it seems. Both need to figure out their lives (past and present), and both are about to face obstacles, which threaten to destroy their last threads of hope.
When I picked this up, for some reason, I thought it'd be set partly in the past, but it sits pretty strongly in present day. Jonah and his younger sister have quite a bit to deal with before they hit the dying town of Rattlesnake. It's hard not to sympathize with both, especially since they are both kind and just trying to stay afloat. Bullying, crushes, abuse, rumors, and secrets bring tension (and triggers), which make this a tale which draws in and holds the reader in the pages. Being under 200 pages, it's a quick read, anyway. Yet, it packs everything necessary to round it off into a solid tale.
I especially enjoyed the aunt and the other characters. Each one brings personality as well as their own subplots. These add richness and give the entire read the heart it needs to really dig in.
After his father's indictment and disappearance, Jonah and his sister follow their aunt in a last effort to a small town, where his uncle has left them property. Not only is the house as broken as their lives, but Jonah soon meets the ghost of a girl, who'd lived there long before...and her history isn't any gentler than his. Or so it seems. Both need to figure out their lives (past and present), and both are about to face obstacles, which threaten to destroy their last threads of hope.
When I picked this up, for some reason, I thought it'd be set partly in the past, but it sits pretty strongly in present day. Jonah and his younger sister have quite a bit to deal with before they hit the dying town of Rattlesnake. It's hard not to sympathize with both, especially since they are both kind and just trying to stay afloat. Bullying, crushes, abuse, rumors, and secrets bring tension (and triggers), which make this a tale which draws in and holds the reader in the pages. Being under 200 pages, it's a quick read, anyway. Yet, it packs everything necessary to round it off into a solid tale.
I especially enjoyed the aunt and the other characters. Each one brings personality as well as their own subplots. These add richness and give the entire read the heart it needs to really dig in.
November 11, 2023
He’s only seventeen, but Jonah Guthrie has had his share of trouble. His dad has been accused of embezzlement and disappeared. He has issues at school. His sister Allie is a pain and his aunt Margaret, who is now their guardian, moves them from New Hampshire to the dying town of Rattlesnake, Nevada—a place as sinister as its name—where they’ve inherited a house that’s fallen into disuse and a silver mine that’s defunct. And if that’s not enough to deal with Jonah discovers the house comes with its own ghost.
The specter is a beautiful young woman named Catherine who needs his help. Jonah is drawn to her as she is to him. To help her he must find a way to clear her uncle’s name. A task that’s not only difficult, but dangerous as well.
Both young people are trying to come to grips with family scandals. One in the present. One over a hundred years ago.
I found myself enthralled with this story from beginning to end. The author deftly weaves the strands of past and present into an intriguing mystery that leaves the reader wondering what’s going to happen next.
Ms. McKenzie’s tales never fail to entertain, and Rattlesnake is no exception.
The specter is a beautiful young woman named Catherine who needs his help. Jonah is drawn to her as she is to him. To help her he must find a way to clear her uncle’s name. A task that’s not only difficult, but dangerous as well.
Both young people are trying to come to grips with family scandals. One in the present. One over a hundred years ago.
I found myself enthralled with this story from beginning to end. The author deftly weaves the strands of past and present into an intriguing mystery that leaves the reader wondering what’s going to happen next.
Ms. McKenzie’s tales never fail to entertain, and Rattlesnake is no exception.
November 19, 2023
From the onset immerse yourself and feel your emotions ebb and flow as you become fully invested in the characters of C. Lee McKenzie’s Young Adult Novel, Rattlesnake. Bad luck follows the Guthrie family from New Hampshire to Nevada, to all places named Rattlesnake. If that isn’t enough to get your skin crawling, how can they possibly call their inheritance of the shambled home and an old abandoned mine be where they will start anew. The very presence of Aunt Margaret, Jonah, and Allie is not welcomed by the townsfolk and how will Jonah come to terms of their new location, the unexplained anger toward them, and the unexpected visitor, Catherine, from 100 years ago. The rollercoaster ride of how all the lives are intertwined and how each can help one another will have you rooting for each and every character, even the town bully, Snake.
Visit C. Lee McKenzie at: https://cleemckenziebooks.com
Visit C. Lee McKenzie at: https://cleemckenziebooks.com
November 18, 2023
I was hooked from the first chapter! The author kept me wondering what’s going to happen next. There are many sub-plots, all inter-connected, and this novel kept going from one to the other just leaving enough questions that I couldn't wait to get back.
The themes of loneliness in a new school. bullying, young love and step-parenting are all addressed in a very positive way through well-drawn characters. I especially enjoyed the way Jonah came to appreciate his Aunt Martha and what she was trying to do for him and his sister.
Ordinarily I don't care for time-travel themes but in this case I enjoyed getting to know Catherine and learning to understand her situation.
The descriptions of the arid Nevada desert where Rattlesnake took place and the historical information from Catherine's ghostly perspective were also worthwhile, especially for a young reader.
The themes of loneliness in a new school. bullying, young love and step-parenting are all addressed in a very positive way through well-drawn characters. I especially enjoyed the way Jonah came to appreciate his Aunt Martha and what she was trying to do for him and his sister.
Ordinarily I don't care for time-travel themes but in this case I enjoyed getting to know Catherine and learning to understand her situation.
The descriptions of the arid Nevada desert where Rattlesnake took place and the historical information from Catherine's ghostly perspective were also worthwhile, especially for a young reader.
November 7, 2023
Rattlesnake was an enjoyable quick read with a little supernatural, a little mystery, and a little romance. I enjoyed the twist on the paranormal read, not just a ghost-ghost. ;) The author has a wonderful way with words and made me misty-eyed a couple of times. The characters were distinct and well-thought out. I made my guesses as the plot played out. I was happy when I was right, and happy when I was wrong!
What initially confused me was the switch in tense and perspective between Jonah’s and Catherine's stories. One past third, the other present first.
I think this story is perfect for late middle grade to early young adult readers.
I received an advance review copy.
What initially confused me was the switch in tense and perspective between Jonah’s and Catherine's stories. One past third, the other present first.
I think this story is perfect for late middle grade to early young adult readers.
I received an advance review copy.
December 3, 2023
Once again, C. Lee McKenzie has served up a gripping tale. This time, she takes us to the dust-filled, God-forsaken town of Rattlesnake. It's a place where memories are long, and strangers unwelcome. Jonah, his sister Allie, and their aunt Margaret discover this when they arrive in town to claim an inheritance that is not what they hoped or expected.
This book had me on the edge of my seat. The author did a great job of weaving the story from two different perspectives and times. I really enjoyed how the present illuminated the past, and vice-versa. A must read for any reader who enjoys young adult literature, time travel, mystery, or all three!
This book had me on the edge of my seat. The author did a great job of weaving the story from two different perspectives and times. I really enjoyed how the present illuminated the past, and vice-versa. A must read for any reader who enjoys young adult literature, time travel, mystery, or all three!
November 4, 2023
As I stated reading Rattlesnake I was pleased to know it was not about a bunch of snakes roaming around the countryside. The book quickly pulled me into the story . I found myself imagining what it would be like living there. Once I started I found myself not wanting to put the book down. Trying to guess what would happen next and was surprised and pleased with what did. If you’re looking for a story line rich in character and a fun enjoyable read. This book is for you. This could certainly be a 2 book series and would certainly look forward to reading it.
March 3, 2024
I was given the ARC to read.
I've read almost all of Lee's books and this is my favorite yet. When a story makes me cry at the end, it's a good book. Sure I kind of expected how it would end, but Lee masterfully brought all the threads together and tied them into a pretty multi-colored bow which made for a lovely Christmas present. (You'll have to read the book to know what I'm alluding to.)
This is a story about family and loss that spans space and time. It's a ghost story, a mystery, and a romance. But most of all it's about, redemption, forgiveness and hope.
I've read almost all of Lee's books and this is my favorite yet. When a story makes me cry at the end, it's a good book. Sure I kind of expected how it would end, but Lee masterfully brought all the threads together and tied them into a pretty multi-colored bow which made for a lovely Christmas present. (You'll have to read the book to know what I'm alluding to.)
This is a story about family and loss that spans space and time. It's a ghost story, a mystery, and a romance. But most of all it's about, redemption, forgiveness and hope.
November 5, 2023
As poignant as it is atmospheric, Rattlesnake is a story that will grab you on the first page and won't let go. I felt for both Catherine and Jonah, as well as the ensemble cast of characters. Past and present, the real and the spectral, collide in dangerous as well as moving ways in this narrative. McKenzie's assured prose makes this a wonderfully engaging read, and it builds up to a magnificent, gripping finale. Do not miss this one.
November 6, 2023
A lonely ghost from 1865 and an unhappy boy in 1998 connect in Rattlesnake, Nevada when they try to untangle a mystery from centuries ago. The town’s history has long-lasting repercussions, and they are determined to uncover the truth of what happened in an abandoned silver mine. A fast-paced adventure, this story explores the idea of righting past wrongs.
November 4, 2023
The book is great , I started to read and it is really interesting , I haven’t finished yet but I want to read it all as the author is really great .
I recommend this book very much.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I recommend this book very much.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 19, 2024
A thoroughly enjoyable read!
The story weaves around Jonah, a teen forced to move to a town named Rattlesnake with what's left of his family. The story takes fascinating twists and unexpected turns as Jonah tries to find his place in this town and help a girl from the past.
A terrific story!
The story weaves around Jonah, a teen forced to move to a town named Rattlesnake with what's left of his family. The story takes fascinating twists and unexpected turns as Jonah tries to find his place in this town and help a girl from the past.
A terrific story!
December 10, 2024
A Great Read
This book was fantastic. I loved the subtle interweaving of the ghost story and its connection to the modern day events. Watching everything play out and come together was fun.
This book was fantastic. I loved the subtle interweaving of the ghost story and its connection to the modern day events. Watching everything play out and come together was fun.
January 6, 2024
I love a good spooky story and this young adult novel was wonderful! Great story to give you the creeps.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight Teen and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight Teen and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 8, 2024
A great read
Vivid historical descriptions and a compelling plot. I felt like I was taking a journey back in time, along with the characters.
Vivid historical descriptions and a compelling plot. I felt like I was taking a journey back in time, along with the characters.
December 29, 2023
The Girl in the Window
Jonah and Allie were unhappy about leaving their home, their father left because he had been accused of embezzlement. Their Aunt Margaret had inherited the two of them, and they all inherited Uncle Jake’ place that came with a silver mine, and it was out in the middle of nowhere. There was no green anywhere that wasn’t a cactus, and when they got to the actual house it was just a shack. That first night as they drove away, Jonah saw a pretty girl in a blue dress standing in an upstairs window.
When Allie and Jonah go to school, they find that their uncle had the unwanted reputation for telling everyone who would listen that he talked to a ghost at his place. This made the Guthrie kids less than popular with the kids at school, and Jonah didn’t help matters by flirting with the prettiest girl who the school bully had latched onto. Fortunately, Jonah finds a friend who also thinks that his sister Allie is pretty.
Jonah eventually meets the pretty ghost and her name is Catherine, and she asks him to please help her and then disappears. This is mostly Jonah’s story, but he will eventually tell Catherine’s story too.
This is a an interesting book that for young people who tend to like drama, and the elements of adventure and romance rounded it out and made it a little less dark. This was an enjoyable young adult book and worth the read.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight Teen and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jonah and Allie were unhappy about leaving their home, their father left because he had been accused of embezzlement. Their Aunt Margaret had inherited the two of them, and they all inherited Uncle Jake’ place that came with a silver mine, and it was out in the middle of nowhere. There was no green anywhere that wasn’t a cactus, and when they got to the actual house it was just a shack. That first night as they drove away, Jonah saw a pretty girl in a blue dress standing in an upstairs window.
When Allie and Jonah go to school, they find that their uncle had the unwanted reputation for telling everyone who would listen that he talked to a ghost at his place. This made the Guthrie kids less than popular with the kids at school, and Jonah didn’t help matters by flirting with the prettiest girl who the school bully had latched onto. Fortunately, Jonah finds a friend who also thinks that his sister Allie is pretty.
Jonah eventually meets the pretty ghost and her name is Catherine, and she asks him to please help her and then disappears. This is mostly Jonah’s story, but he will eventually tell Catherine’s story too.
This is a an interesting book that for young people who tend to like drama, and the elements of adventure and romance rounded it out and made it a little less dark. This was an enjoyable young adult book and worth the read.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight Teen and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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