Sleight of Hand

by Vicki Reed

Growing up in foster care, fifteen-year-old Alex Coffey has racked up an astonishing sixty-four placements and is now drifting into the juvenile justice system. His mantra is don’t hope, don’t care, and above all, don’t do what they want you to. It’s the only way you can control your life. But Sam Murry, his newest caseworker. is willing to try and work a little magic to save this youth who everyone else has given up on. He recruits Matthew King, a childhood acquaintance who is no stranger to a bit of trouble, to reluctantly provide a roof over this boy’s head. Author Vicki Reed relies on decades spent working in the field to craft this inspiring story of loss and redemption. A powerful novel that shows how the transformative power of friendship, kindness, and love can heal the deepest wounds.

248 pages, Paperback

Published March 17, 2025

About the author

Vicki Reed hails from the "Horse Capitol of the World", Lexington, Ky, where she lives with her husband and son. With a degree in Law Enforcement and a Masters in Criminal Justice, she has spent decades in the child welfare and juvenile justice fields. She combined her love for horse, nature, and kids in trouble to create her first novel, The Car Thief. Car Thief went on to win 2 national/international awards.

Her newest novel, Sleight of Hand, was released in March 2025. This book follows a troubled teen in foster care and the adults who rally to turn his life around.

Reviews

[Anna Bramwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

a moving and informative book

I loved The Car thief, despite so much of it being pretty harrowing, so was pleased to find another Vicky Reed book. It was gripping and credible, and I learnt a lot about dealing with awkward kids and the foster and other systems that exist. The only problem was I stayed up late reading it. What good people there are in the world, and how fragile kids with no families are. I am waiting anxiously for the next book!

[Margie Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Both heartwrenching and heartfelt book

I never looked at the foster care or juvenile systems too closely. This book explores all angles of the families and the kids in these places and it was both eye opening and emotional for me to read. This was a great book that I had to finish in one day.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laugh and cry and keep reading

Well-written book about a young boy who shouldn't have a chance at success. However, Ms. Reed fleshes out a story about good people who work to change a life and are changed in the process.oung . This retired Advanced Placement English teacher and CASA volunteer highly recommend this gem.

[Janinne Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

After being captivated by Reed’s first novel, Car Thief, I ordered her new book as soon as it was out. Sleight of Hand did not disappoint! With attention to detail, Reed is able to capture your heart while honing in on the issues that haunt the juvenile justice system. A great read from Ms Reed

[Christine Timmo · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a lovely, uplifting book. The foster system is so rough and broken, and this book does a good job showing that. But it also shows the strength of the individual to rise above, to persevere, and ultimately never to stop having hope. I really enjoyed it.

(Thanks goodreads for the giveaway)

[D'anah · Rating 2 out of 5]

Started good but

I really wanted to read this book. It's where my heart is. However I CANNOT read a book that blasphemes the name of Jesus. So, had to delete it! Really bummed by it, as wanted to read it and learn from it.

[MaryLee · Rating 5 out of 5]

good story line with real people

The story line felt real and the people were well evolved. The book kept my attention with real situations. It was well written and totally believable.

[Middleton Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a phenomenal book: it combines being an enjoyable read with an important message.

[kristina · Rating 5 out of 5]

5stars

Aside from helping a teen to a better life, this novel included pollinator gardening. Our property is planted for wildlife. Great entertainment.

[Kathy Howells · Rating 4 out of 5]

Important subject by a local author! Her other book ‘The Car Thief’ is a favorite. I especially appreciate the author including CASA in this book, a volunteer organization ear & dear to my heart.

[Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

An enlightening, educational, and inspirational story on empathy, tolerance, acceptance, and understanding that depicted situations in people's personal and professional lives and their results!

[Amy Preske Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

A little cookie cutter perfect ending (like her Car Thief book) but I did enjoy it.

[Harriet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book, will definitely follow this author.