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Preacher Sam: A Sam Geisler, Murder Whisperer Prequel
Confession is good for the soul.
No one is more qualified to understand the blackest hearts than a disgraced, sex-addicted former preacher who is still in love with his estranged wife. Floundering for direction and beset by the needs of his well-meaning but aggravating atheist sister and her seven-year-old son, Sam Geisler is trying to put his past behind him when the murder of one of his former parishioners by another drags him back into the world he left behind. Sam may not be Broad Ripple’s favorite son, but his peculiar gift for listening has earned him the moniker murderer-whisperer, and the police need his help on what should be an open-and-shut case. Fighting for his marriage, fighting with his sister, and fighting against his own demons, Sam may be the only one who hears what the real murderer is all but shouting—but will it be enough to drive back his own darkness?
No one is more qualified to understand the blackest hearts than a disgraced, sex-addicted former preacher who is still in love with his estranged wife. Floundering for direction and beset by the needs of his well-meaning but aggravating atheist sister and her seven-year-old son, Sam Geisler is trying to put his past behind him when the murder of one of his former parishioners by another drags him back into the world he left behind. Sam may not be Broad Ripple’s favorite son, but his peculiar gift for listening has earned him the moniker murderer-whisperer, and the police need his help on what should be an open-and-shut case. Fighting for his marriage, fighting with his sister, and fighting against his own demons, Sam may be the only one who hears what the real murderer is all but shouting—but will it be enough to drive back his own darkness?
284 pages, Paperback
Published September 17, 2019
3 people are currently reading
42 people want to read
About the author
Cassondra Windwalker
24 books128 followersCassondra Windwalker earned a BA of Letters from the University of Oklahoma. She's the author of nine novels and three works of poetry who does her best to keep fed the menagerie of stray critters, cryptids, marooned kelpies, and lost specters. Born and raised on the red clay, she's wandered the sticky corn fields of the Midwest, the frozen seas of the Wild North, and frequently rests her wings where orange skies meet purple mountains. She enjoys interacting with readers, writers, and generally decent humans on social media.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
September 3, 2019
I have to say; I enjoyed this one immensely. 🙌 It read like a grittier (a porn-addicted preacher) cozy mystery. ⛪ The writing was great. 👍The pace was OK. 👀 The mystery itself I found kind of slow moving, but the resolution was shocking. 🙈 I wasn't expecting a twist like that. 😵 I loved the relationship between Sam, Dani & Parker. 👪 They had such a tight family bond with great humor. 😂 The writing for those scenes was 5-star stellar. 🌟 On the other hand, I hated Melanie. 😒 Any scene with her brought this book to a standstill. ⛔ She just wasn't a likable character at all, and I am hoping if we get more books featuring these characters she remains gone like the wind. 🌀 Last, it seemed like there was more story to tell with these characters. 🔜 Especially with Dani and Ian. 💑 So I have my fingers crossed more books featuring preacher "murder whisperer" Sam are in our future... 💒
March 4, 2022
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Genre: Murder Mystery
Synopsis:
Sam Geisler is a former preacher who got separated from his wife Melanie because of his porn addiction. Now Sam lives with his sister Dani & her son Parker. A murder happens in his town by one of his former parishioners (Amanda) who only agrees to talk to Sam. The former preacher tries his best to solve this murder mystery that the detectives were not able to solve. And through all this, he has to overcome the feeling he still has for his wife.
Book Structure:
The book is around 250 pages and has 40 chapters. The chapters are short and the reader can fly through them easily. The narration is written from the third person's perspective.
Pros:
- The relationship between Sam, Dani & Parker was so good to read. They felt like a real family to me, especially the siblings' bond. There was always this warmness available no matter how much they argued with each other or how different their personalities are. I think the author was successful in creating this bond.
- Dani is a fantastic character in the story. She is my favorite character, very witty, sarcastic, and without being over judgemental. I think it was her character that helped the book to have somehow a lighter tone.
Cons:
- Slow Pace: The story was too slow for a mystery or a thriller. I understand that some mysteries need to be slow until the events unfold but Preacher Sam felt too slow for my taste. Many chapters felt they were just dragging the story further without adding anything substantial to it.
- The reason for the murder, Amanda's decision & motive to take it up all did not feel convincing to me. The whole book is revolving around one murder mystery so as a reader I expect that to be done in a convincing way for a solid end result, but unfortunately, I was not convinced with it. Sam solving the whole thing felt too convenient, but I'd give the author the credit of using the letter in an interesting way.
Final Thought:
Preacher Sam is a decent murder mystery, it is not a great one but not a bad one either. If I would recommend it mainly it will be for the relationship between the siblings not for the mystery part. I will have to go with 3.0 stars out of 5.0. The book is going to be released on September 17th, 2019.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced reading copy (ARC) of this book in return for this honest and unbiased review.
Genre: Murder Mystery
Synopsis:
Sam Geisler is a former preacher who got separated from his wife Melanie because of his porn addiction. Now Sam lives with his sister Dani & her son Parker. A murder happens in his town by one of his former parishioners (Amanda) who only agrees to talk to Sam. The former preacher tries his best to solve this murder mystery that the detectives were not able to solve. And through all this, he has to overcome the feeling he still has for his wife.
Book Structure:
The book is around 250 pages and has 40 chapters. The chapters are short and the reader can fly through them easily. The narration is written from the third person's perspective.
Pros:
- The relationship between Sam, Dani & Parker was so good to read. They felt like a real family to me, especially the siblings' bond. There was always this warmness available no matter how much they argued with each other or how different their personalities are. I think the author was successful in creating this bond.
- Dani is a fantastic character in the story. She is my favorite character, very witty, sarcastic, and without being over judgemental. I think it was her character that helped the book to have somehow a lighter tone.
Cons:
- Slow Pace: The story was too slow for a mystery or a thriller. I understand that some mysteries need to be slow until the events unfold but Preacher Sam felt too slow for my taste. Many chapters felt they were just dragging the story further without adding anything substantial to it.
- The reason for the murder, Amanda's decision & motive to take it up all did not feel convincing to me. The whole book is revolving around one murder mystery so as a reader I expect that to be done in a convincing way for a solid end result, but unfortunately, I was not convinced with it. Sam solving the whole thing felt too convenient, but I'd give the author the credit of using the letter in an interesting way.
Final Thought:
Preacher Sam is a decent murder mystery, it is not a great one but not a bad one either. If I would recommend it mainly it will be for the relationship between the siblings not for the mystery part. I will have to go with 3.0 stars out of 5.0. The book is going to be released on September 17th, 2019.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced reading copy (ARC) of this book in return for this honest and unbiased review.
September 17, 2019
Sam Geisler is a rather unique character. He's an ex-preacher, addicted to porn, snubbed by many in his community, and unfortunately he still loves his estranged wife. Sam lives with his sister, Dani, and her 7-year-old son Parker.
In the midst of dealing with his feeling for his wife and in handling his well meaning atheist sister and trying to put his past behind him, he now finds himself in the middle of another murder.
One of his previous parishioners (Amanda) is being held in jail charged with killing another of his former parishioners (Amy). Sam's peculiar gift for listening has earned him a nickname ... Murderer Whisperer.
Amanda has spoken to no one since her arrest, but she does agree to speak to Sam. The police have enlisted Sam's help in determining her guilt or innocence.
It's just one more battle for Sam ... but will he be able to determine what happened between the two women? Is Amanda shielding someone else? Will Sam be able to let his wife go?
This is more of a cozy-mystery than crime fiction. Well written, the mystery is easy to follow, but not that easy to predict the outcome. I loved the character of Sam .. I really hope to see more of him in future books. His sister, Dani, is also an outstanding character. She's feisty, out-spoken and has a temper .. but she is very loyal to those she loves. Being an atheist leads to a lot of light conversations and comments between brother and sister.
Many thanks to the author / Black Spot Books / NetGalley for the digital copy of this mystery. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
August 27, 2019
Originally published on The Nerd Daily | Review by Seven Jane
For Sam Geisler, the titular character in Cassondra Windwalker’s new murder-mystery series, Sam Geisler: Murder Whisperer, the path to redemption is one forged through darkness. Preacher Sam, the first instalment of Windwalker’s latest experiment in the beautiful, sometimes redeemable depravity of the human experience arrives from Black Spot Books in September 2019, and at one-part cosy murder mystery and one-part psychological thriller, well, the Preacher is ready to hear your confessions.
Sam Geisler used to be an upstanding member of his community—the town pastor, doting husband, supportive brother and uncle, and in possession of an ear you can’t help but whisper secrets into. But despite his good deeds, Sam was crippled by a seedy addiction that ultimately cost him the things he loved most, namely all the previous. Now, he’s starting over—jobless, on the verge of divorce from his estranged wife, and living an intentionally technology-free life as penance while he eeks out the days working in his sister Dan’s café/bookshop, being a stand-in for a father for his young nephew, and toiling away his—er—tensions in late-night gym sessions. But, out of all the punishments Sam is experiencing, perhaps the worst is that which he has imposed upon himself: a hefty dosing of guilt, both about what he cannot change and that which he failed to.
While Sam’s quest for redemption effectively and voluntarily ostracises from his community, it nonetheless also pivots him into a critical—and somewhat blissfully removed from his previous obligations with the church—role when one of his former parishioners is suddenly arrested for the murder of another. Amanda has seemingly murdered her best friend, and she’s not interested in speaking to anyone about her role in Amy’s death—not even her husband, her defense, her children, or even her new pastor. She is, however, willing to speak with Sam, though she even withholds the whole story from him, seeking not absolution but instead forgiveness for a crime it is obvious to everyone she didn’t commit. The only other person she’s talked to from behind prison bars is, ironically, Clay, Amy’s widowed husband, something that only fuels speculation about what really happened that night in the small fabric store that the two women had owned together. Amanda’s involvement in Amy’s murder is not the most scandalous part of the crime, though, it’s in the greater evil that she was trying to prevent—a ferreting out of darkness that, hopefully, will perhaps help Sam to find his own way to salvation, both in his eyes and everyone else’s.
If you’re ready for more Sam (and Dani, too) there’s a Geisler story called “Feeding the Dog” published in the Roanoke Review as well as another mention for Sam in Cassondra Windwalker’s contribution to the upcoming winter-themed Black Spot Books Anthology, A Midnight Clear (available November 5, 2019).
For Sam Geisler, the titular character in Cassondra Windwalker’s new murder-mystery series, Sam Geisler: Murder Whisperer, the path to redemption is one forged through darkness. Preacher Sam, the first instalment of Windwalker’s latest experiment in the beautiful, sometimes redeemable depravity of the human experience arrives from Black Spot Books in September 2019, and at one-part cosy murder mystery and one-part psychological thriller, well, the Preacher is ready to hear your confessions.
Sam Geisler used to be an upstanding member of his community—the town pastor, doting husband, supportive brother and uncle, and in possession of an ear you can’t help but whisper secrets into. But despite his good deeds, Sam was crippled by a seedy addiction that ultimately cost him the things he loved most, namely all the previous. Now, he’s starting over—jobless, on the verge of divorce from his estranged wife, and living an intentionally technology-free life as penance while he eeks out the days working in his sister Dan’s café/bookshop, being a stand-in for a father for his young nephew, and toiling away his—er—tensions in late-night gym sessions. But, out of all the punishments Sam is experiencing, perhaps the worst is that which he has imposed upon himself: a hefty dosing of guilt, both about what he cannot change and that which he failed to.
While Sam’s quest for redemption effectively and voluntarily ostracises from his community, it nonetheless also pivots him into a critical—and somewhat blissfully removed from his previous obligations with the church—role when one of his former parishioners is suddenly arrested for the murder of another. Amanda has seemingly murdered her best friend, and she’s not interested in speaking to anyone about her role in Amy’s death—not even her husband, her defense, her children, or even her new pastor. She is, however, willing to speak with Sam, though she even withholds the whole story from him, seeking not absolution but instead forgiveness for a crime it is obvious to everyone she didn’t commit. The only other person she’s talked to from behind prison bars is, ironically, Clay, Amy’s widowed husband, something that only fuels speculation about what really happened that night in the small fabric store that the two women had owned together. Amanda’s involvement in Amy’s murder is not the most scandalous part of the crime, though, it’s in the greater evil that she was trying to prevent—a ferreting out of darkness that, hopefully, will perhaps help Sam to find his own way to salvation, both in his eyes and everyone else’s.
If you’re ready for more Sam (and Dani, too) there’s a Geisler story called “Feeding the Dog” published in the Roanoke Review as well as another mention for Sam in Cassondra Windwalker’s contribution to the upcoming winter-themed Black Spot Books Anthology, A Midnight Clear (available November 5, 2019).
October 22, 2019
Preacher Sam is a very entertaining murder mystery, but it's so much more. There's the ruined romance of Sam and his estranged wife, Melanie (and one must hope reconciliation is possible- please!). It's a Christian novel that's unafraid to buck convention and display what faith is meant to be (and can be) without being preachy. Or is it literary fiction? It easily could be. The interplay of the characters is paramount to the story and the inner life of the main character is fully exposed- his hopes, terrors and raw emotion.
Despite the novel's focus on dark circumstances, it holds a promise of hope and an antidote to the poison of despair and self-loathing. It does touch on trigger situations that the author handles with deft and gentle hands while still shining a light on several societal evils.
The MC- Sam- is a disgraced preacher, since admitting to his porn addiction. When we meet him, he's lost his parish and his beloved wife, Melanie. His sister Dani opens her home to him and her bookstore/diner where he helps out as he nurses his psychic wounds. It's soon revealed that a former parishioner, Amanda, murdered her business partner and best friend Amy. She calls the police herself, and is found covered in blood with gun in hand. She confesses to the crime...but something doesn't add up. There are too many questions...too many loose ends, and since the confession, Amanda has clammed up about everything. Sam's estranged wife Melanie asks him to look into the case...perhaps Amanda will open up to him? Maybe he will have some insight into the machinations of his former flock? One thing's for sure, Sam would move heaven and Earth to secure Melanie's good graces- even if the possibility of her love can never be.
I loved these characters and will add my voice to the many others asking for a sequel! Preacher Sam is a great read on so many levels! Well done!
I've been a fan of the author's since her debut novel "Parable of Pronouns." Her captivating style and character development coupled with a precise prose style creates stories that suck the reader in. You don't just read the stories that have bloomed in her imagination, you live them along with the very real people she's created.
Despite the novel's focus on dark circumstances, it holds a promise of hope and an antidote to the poison of despair and self-loathing. It does touch on trigger situations that the author handles with deft and gentle hands while still shining a light on several societal evils.
The MC- Sam- is a disgraced preacher, since admitting to his porn addiction. When we meet him, he's lost his parish and his beloved wife, Melanie. His sister Dani opens her home to him and her bookstore/diner where he helps out as he nurses his psychic wounds. It's soon revealed that a former parishioner, Amanda, murdered her business partner and best friend Amy. She calls the police herself, and is found covered in blood with gun in hand. She confesses to the crime...but something doesn't add up. There are too many questions...too many loose ends, and since the confession, Amanda has clammed up about everything. Sam's estranged wife Melanie asks him to look into the case...perhaps Amanda will open up to him? Maybe he will have some insight into the machinations of his former flock? One thing's for sure, Sam would move heaven and Earth to secure Melanie's good graces- even if the possibility of her love can never be.
I loved these characters and will add my voice to the many others asking for a sequel! Preacher Sam is a great read on so many levels! Well done!
I've been a fan of the author's since her debut novel "Parable of Pronouns." Her captivating style and character development coupled with a precise prose style creates stories that suck the reader in. You don't just read the stories that have bloomed in her imagination, you live them along with the very real people she's created.
September 19, 2019
I’ve finished and now idk what to do with my life cause....I miss Sam
I received this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
umm this book has seriously shocked me?? and not in the oh my God I never would have figured out the murderer type shock (though I really didn't figure it all out until it was all being unraveled) but in the I really love the MC in this book type way.
Preacher Sam, or 'Just Sam' as he says, is such a likable character. He's just a guy who took on more than he should have considering he had some problems of his own to fix. I related with Sam so much because I've been a Christian for about 17 years now and I know what it feels like to be overwhelmed by it, to be everyone else's crutch but not have anything to lean on yourself when you're about to fall. I was so fully invested in Sam's story that when the 'The End' page showed up I felt like I wasn't ready to give it up yet haha
I would also like to mention how well Sam's sex addiction is covered in this story. It's not something that's addressed in a disrespectful way to other sex addicts. It's not done in a disturbing or overly visual way and I appreciate that very much because I feel like otherwise Sam's character would have been a lot darker than it would have fit in the story.
I feel like other characters, like his sister Dani definitely have their own story to tell but I do want to point out Dani is one of my favorite characters of this book. She's fun, sarcastic as hell (Which I love always) and loves Sam - and her son - very much.
Each character in the story felt like they had their own part to play and I think the author did an over all great job at making sure no one got thrown out of the focus of the story.
Over all I miss Sam and I need to know more about how his life is going to play out for him.
Give. Me. Book. Two.
4 out of 5 stars for me because I enjoyed it every step of the way.
I received this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
umm this book has seriously shocked me?? and not in the oh my God I never would have figured out the murderer type shock (though I really didn't figure it all out until it was all being unraveled) but in the I really love the MC in this book type way.
Preacher Sam, or 'Just Sam' as he says, is such a likable character. He's just a guy who took on more than he should have considering he had some problems of his own to fix. I related with Sam so much because I've been a Christian for about 17 years now and I know what it feels like to be overwhelmed by it, to be everyone else's crutch but not have anything to lean on yourself when you're about to fall. I was so fully invested in Sam's story that when the 'The End' page showed up I felt like I wasn't ready to give it up yet haha
I would also like to mention how well Sam's sex addiction is covered in this story. It's not something that's addressed in a disrespectful way to other sex addicts. It's not done in a disturbing or overly visual way and I appreciate that very much because I feel like otherwise Sam's character would have been a lot darker than it would have fit in the story.
I feel like other characters, like his sister Dani definitely have their own story to tell but I do want to point out Dani is one of my favorite characters of this book. She's fun, sarcastic as hell (Which I love always) and loves Sam - and her son - very much.
Each character in the story felt like they had their own part to play and I think the author did an over all great job at making sure no one got thrown out of the focus of the story.
Over all I miss Sam and I need to know more about how his life is going to play out for him.
Give. Me. Book. Two.
4 out of 5 stars for me because I enjoyed it every step of the way.
February 2, 2020
Insightful, Character-Driven Mystery
I put out a call on social media for book recommendations, specifically in the mystery genre, and the author suggested Preacher Sam, although she did warn me that it wasn’t exactly “cozy”.
I am very pleased I gave this book a try, because I value anything unique in the telling. People, even Christians, come from all walks of life, and this book illustrates that well. Just because someone is a minister, doesn’t mean they aren’t flawed. I felt the story line was believable, without crossing the line of making us not like the protagonist. I found Sam’s character endearing, as he tries to heal and grow. Isn’t that what we’re all trying to do?
While some might want the murder and mystery elements emphasized more, I actually appreciated how much thought was put into characterization and mood. This is what makes me continue reading a book, because without realistic people I can connect with, I don’t care how much suspense or mayhem the story involves. For this, Windwalker is astounding at her craft.
Give this story a try if you want insight and self-reflection. 5 stars!
I put out a call on social media for book recommendations, specifically in the mystery genre, and the author suggested Preacher Sam, although she did warn me that it wasn’t exactly “cozy”.
I am very pleased I gave this book a try, because I value anything unique in the telling. People, even Christians, come from all walks of life, and this book illustrates that well. Just because someone is a minister, doesn’t mean they aren’t flawed. I felt the story line was believable, without crossing the line of making us not like the protagonist. I found Sam’s character endearing, as he tries to heal and grow. Isn’t that what we’re all trying to do?
While some might want the murder and mystery elements emphasized more, I actually appreciated how much thought was put into characterization and mood. This is what makes me continue reading a book, because without realistic people I can connect with, I don’t care how much suspense or mayhem the story involves. For this, Windwalker is astounding at her craft.
Give this story a try if you want insight and self-reflection. 5 stars!
Read
June 17, 2023For Sam Geisler, the titular character in Cassondra Windwalker’s new murder-mystery series, Sam Geisler: Murder Whisperer, the path to redemption is one forged through darkness. Preacher Sam, the first installment of Windwalker’s latest experiment in the beautiful, sometimes redeemable depravity of the human experience arrives from Black Spot Books in September 2019, and at one-part cozy murder mystery and one-part psychological thriller, well, the Preacher is ready to hear your confessions.
Sam Geisler used to be an upstanding member of his community—the town pastor, doting husband, supportive brother and uncle, and in possession of an ear you can’t help but whisper secrets into. But despite his good deeds, Sam was crippled by a seedy addiction that ultimately cost him the things he loved most, namely all the previous. Now, he’s starting over—jobless, on the verge of divorce from his estranged wife, and living an intentionally technology-free life as penance while he eeks out the days working in his sister Dan’s café/bookshop, being a stand-in for a father for his young nephew, and toiling away his—er—tensions in late-night gym sessions. But, out of all the punishments Sam is experiencing, perhaps the worst is that which he has imposed upon himself: a hefty dosing of guilt, both about what he cannot change and that which he failed to.
While Sam’s quest for redemption effectively and voluntarily ostracizes from his community, it nonetheless also pivots him into a critical—and somewhat blissfully removed from his previous obligations with the church—role when one of his former parishioners is suddenly arrested for the murder of another. Amanda has seemingly murdered her best friend, and she’s not interested in speaking to anyone about her role in Amy's death—not even her husband, her defense, her children, or even her new pastor. She is, however, willing to speak with Sam, though she even withholds the whole story from him, seeking not absolution but instead forgiveness for a crime it is obvious to everyone she didn’t commit. The only other person she's talked to from behind prison bars is, ironically, Clay, Amy's widowed husband, something that only fuels speculation about what really happened that night in the small fabric store that the two women had owned together. Amanda’s involvement in Amy’s murder is not the most scandalous part of the crime, though, it’s in the greater evil that she was trying to prevent—a ferreting out of darkness that, hopefully, will perhaps help Sam to find his own way to salvation, both in his eyes and everyone else’s.
Sam Geisler used to be an upstanding member of his community—the town pastor, doting husband, supportive brother and uncle, and in possession of an ear you can’t help but whisper secrets into. But despite his good deeds, Sam was crippled by a seedy addiction that ultimately cost him the things he loved most, namely all the previous. Now, he’s starting over—jobless, on the verge of divorce from his estranged wife, and living an intentionally technology-free life as penance while he eeks out the days working in his sister Dan’s café/bookshop, being a stand-in for a father for his young nephew, and toiling away his—er—tensions in late-night gym sessions. But, out of all the punishments Sam is experiencing, perhaps the worst is that which he has imposed upon himself: a hefty dosing of guilt, both about what he cannot change and that which he failed to.
While Sam’s quest for redemption effectively and voluntarily ostracizes from his community, it nonetheless also pivots him into a critical—and somewhat blissfully removed from his previous obligations with the church—role when one of his former parishioners is suddenly arrested for the murder of another. Amanda has seemingly murdered her best friend, and she’s not interested in speaking to anyone about her role in Amy's death—not even her husband, her defense, her children, or even her new pastor. She is, however, willing to speak with Sam, though she even withholds the whole story from him, seeking not absolution but instead forgiveness for a crime it is obvious to everyone she didn’t commit. The only other person she's talked to from behind prison bars is, ironically, Clay, Amy's widowed husband, something that only fuels speculation about what really happened that night in the small fabric store that the two women had owned together. Amanda’s involvement in Amy’s murder is not the most scandalous part of the crime, though, it’s in the greater evil that she was trying to prevent—a ferreting out of darkness that, hopefully, will perhaps help Sam to find his own way to salvation, both in his eyes and everyone else’s.
August 5, 2019
Description:
No one is more qualified to understand the blackest hearts than a disgraced, porn-addicted former preacher who is still in love with his estranged wife. Floundering for direction and beset by the needs of his well-meaning but aggravating atheist sister and her seven-year-old son, Sam Geisler is trying to put his past behind him when the murder of one of his former parishioners by another drags him back into the world he left behind. Sam may not be Broadripple’s favorite son, but his peculiar gift for listening has earned him the moniker murderer-whisperer, and the police need his help on what should be an open-and-shut case. Fighting for his marriage, fighting with his sister, and fighting against his own demons, Sam may be the only one who hears what the real murderer is all but shouting—but will it be enough to drive back his own darkness?
MY REVIEW:
Preacher Sam by Cassondra Windwalker is a mystery filled with interesting characters and twists. The murder mystery itself keeps you entertained, however something that bothered me a bit is Sam's character. If the author was trying to make him unlikeable and whiny then that was accomplished. To me it became a bit annoying after a while.
In the novel, Sam is a disgraced former preacher and porn addict. He lives with his sister and her son even though he is still in love with his wife. So, when a murder occurs, Sam agrees to speak with the accused and tries to solve the case. Twists and turns keep you hooked until the very end.
This book was provided free of charge in exchange for my honest opinion.
No one is more qualified to understand the blackest hearts than a disgraced, porn-addicted former preacher who is still in love with his estranged wife. Floundering for direction and beset by the needs of his well-meaning but aggravating atheist sister and her seven-year-old son, Sam Geisler is trying to put his past behind him when the murder of one of his former parishioners by another drags him back into the world he left behind. Sam may not be Broadripple’s favorite son, but his peculiar gift for listening has earned him the moniker murderer-whisperer, and the police need his help on what should be an open-and-shut case. Fighting for his marriage, fighting with his sister, and fighting against his own demons, Sam may be the only one who hears what the real murderer is all but shouting—but will it be enough to drive back his own darkness?
MY REVIEW:
Preacher Sam by Cassondra Windwalker is a mystery filled with interesting characters and twists. The murder mystery itself keeps you entertained, however something that bothered me a bit is Sam's character. If the author was trying to make him unlikeable and whiny then that was accomplished. To me it became a bit annoying after a while.
In the novel, Sam is a disgraced former preacher and porn addict. He lives with his sister and her son even though he is still in love with his wife. So, when a murder occurs, Sam agrees to speak with the accused and tries to solve the case. Twists and turns keep you hooked until the very end.
This book was provided free of charge in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 5, 2019
Windwalker’s Preacher Sam is murder/mystery/romance that bravely combines religion with the pervasive effects of pornography in popular culture—and in the church. And yet, the author manages to keep things light with a readable style that quickly classifies the book as a page turner.
Two likeable main characters—Preacher Sam and his sister, Dani—support each other through the loss of one’s reputation and the other’s trials as a single parent and business owner. Preacher Sam’s authentic personality persuades people to reveal their truest selves, and, in the end, helps identify the real killer when the confessed murder's story doesn’t add up. Set in the heart of Indianapolis in Broad Ripple Village, the story closes with a surprising, but realistic end.
Windwalker doesn’t give you a fairytale; hers is a story of broken people moving on, redeeming their lives or paying the price for damaging (or destroying) the innocent people closest to them.
Two likeable main characters—Preacher Sam and his sister, Dani—support each other through the loss of one’s reputation and the other’s trials as a single parent and business owner. Preacher Sam’s authentic personality persuades people to reveal their truest selves, and, in the end, helps identify the real killer when the confessed murder's story doesn’t add up. Set in the heart of Indianapolis in Broad Ripple Village, the story closes with a surprising, but realistic end.
Windwalker doesn’t give you a fairytale; hers is a story of broken people moving on, redeeming their lives or paying the price for damaging (or destroying) the innocent people closest to them.
April 22, 2020
I know it's a murder mystery and all, but Sam... Sam... I don't know why--yes, I do know why--I love Sam. He's such a beautiful, warm, interesting character that my heart goes out to for so many reasons, and I want to be his friend.
The overall writing, to me, is warm, vivid, and lively, and that, as far as I can tell, is a good beginning description of a living thing. A living book is a good book. And I'm *always* impressed with books that have a mystery well-written. Preacher Sam has a perfectly balanced build up around the main character's own mysteries as well as the mystery he's wrapped up in. :o)
I would definitely recommend. :o)
The overall writing, to me, is warm, vivid, and lively, and that, as far as I can tell, is a good beginning description of a living thing. A living book is a good book. And I'm *always* impressed with books that have a mystery well-written. Preacher Sam has a perfectly balanced build up around the main character's own mysteries as well as the mystery he's wrapped up in. :o)
I would definitely recommend. :o)
July 11, 2019
Sam Geisler is trying to put his dark past behind him when the murder of one by her friend drags him back into the world he left behind.
He may not be Broadripple’s favourite person, but his gift for listening has earned him the alias of "murderer-whisperer". The friends and family of the victim and perpetrator seek his help on what should be an open-and-shut case as all is not what it seems to them especially as the murderer won't see her husband.
Fighting for his marriage and against his own demons, Sam may be the only one who hears what the real murderer is trying to say. No one is more qualified to understand the blackest hearts than Sam, a disgraced, porn-addicted former preacher who is still in love with his estranged wife and living with his sister and her seven year old son.
I enjoyed this story, an interesting murder mystery - had me guessing till the end. I think the way Sam was dealing with his addiction was interesting, working out at the gym and cutting himself off from the web. I could easily follow the characters and even though it was through the eyes of a disgraced preacher, the story didn't go down the religious path too much. Some of the interaction between his sister and his nephew made me smile, letting him watch crime programmes so he could put theories forward, being cheeky and getting the shop patrons to help him win a board game against his mum.
In regards to considering the divorce from his wife, I wasn't sure if he'd be the one applying as he's the one in the wrong - perhaps in the US its different to the UK where I'm from.
I received this book from netgalley in return for a honest review.
He may not be Broadripple’s favourite person, but his gift for listening has earned him the alias of "murderer-whisperer". The friends and family of the victim and perpetrator seek his help on what should be an open-and-shut case as all is not what it seems to them especially as the murderer won't see her husband.
Fighting for his marriage and against his own demons, Sam may be the only one who hears what the real murderer is trying to say. No one is more qualified to understand the blackest hearts than Sam, a disgraced, porn-addicted former preacher who is still in love with his estranged wife and living with his sister and her seven year old son.
I enjoyed this story, an interesting murder mystery - had me guessing till the end. I think the way Sam was dealing with his addiction was interesting, working out at the gym and cutting himself off from the web. I could easily follow the characters and even though it was through the eyes of a disgraced preacher, the story didn't go down the religious path too much. Some of the interaction between his sister and his nephew made me smile, letting him watch crime programmes so he could put theories forward, being cheeky and getting the shop patrons to help him win a board game against his mum.
In regards to considering the divorce from his wife, I wasn't sure if he'd be the one applying as he's the one in the wrong - perhaps in the US its different to the UK where I'm from.
I received this book from netgalley in return for a honest review.
March 7, 2020
The writing in this murder mystery is brilliant and the plot is compelling. I found myself checking to see whether the next one had been published before I'd even finished.I don't usually read murder mysteries but this one is as much character-driven as it is an innovative story, and I couldn't put it down. The characters of Sam and Dani are robust and very relatable. Can't wait for the next one.
October 14, 2019
Preacher Sam involves a disgraced preacher who is the only one who might solve the murder because the confessed killer is an ex-parishioner who has killed her business partner. Sam gets involved due on the request of his estranged wife, one whom he lost when he lost his church and his congregation to the secret life he is living. Most of this novel is building Sam as a character, showing us that there is redemption if we work hard enough, and that there is always a place for kindness. Even though this is a minor part of the story, one of the biggest character builders that Cassondra Windwalker uses is his interactions with Cotton, a homeless man Sam lets into the gym with him so that he has someplace warm to sit for the duration of Sam's workout. This is proof that he has not lost his compassion and decency, even after his whole world has fallen apart.
One of the things that perked my interest in reading this is that it is set in Broad Ripple, a neighborhood in my hometown. I have spent many days shopping here and many nights going to the bars and concert venues in the area. I find that Windwalker does not spend a great deal of time fleshing out the village, making it an artsy part of Indianapolis, the home of Herron Art Institute, has a top clubs in a city that is rich with comedy and music, the White River going straight through the middle of it, and some great running and biking trails. She has Preacher Sam as a runner, but the Monon trail is right there, two blocks from the main streets, and he does not utilize it once. I know this is a unique situation for a reader to know the setting where the writer is writing, but she does not do a great job pulling the readers into the atmosphere of the village.
The characters and the mystery are the focus, and she does a good job building the characters and the plot. I enjoyed many of the twists and turns, and it is a very solid book. I enjoyed the writing and I did not feel like it was overtly religious even though there were some aspects, like the main character being a Preacher, that does bring up some religion. This is done is a way that is not off-putting and is central to the character that is being built. Overall this is a good story with good characters. I can't wait to read the next chapter.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
One of the things that perked my interest in reading this is that it is set in Broad Ripple, a neighborhood in my hometown. I have spent many days shopping here and many nights going to the bars and concert venues in the area. I find that Windwalker does not spend a great deal of time fleshing out the village, making it an artsy part of Indianapolis, the home of Herron Art Institute, has a top clubs in a city that is rich with comedy and music, the White River going straight through the middle of it, and some great running and biking trails. She has Preacher Sam as a runner, but the Monon trail is right there, two blocks from the main streets, and he does not utilize it once. I know this is a unique situation for a reader to know the setting where the writer is writing, but she does not do a great job pulling the readers into the atmosphere of the village.
The characters and the mystery are the focus, and she does a good job building the characters and the plot. I enjoyed many of the twists and turns, and it is a very solid book. I enjoyed the writing and I did not feel like it was overtly religious even though there were some aspects, like the main character being a Preacher, that does bring up some religion. This is done is a way that is not off-putting and is central to the character that is being built. Overall this is a good story with good characters. I can't wait to read the next chapter.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 26, 2019
I found this novel to be exceptionally intriguing, delving deep into emotional states, relationships, and exhibiting surprising psychological revelations and character evolutions. I also must add that the eventual denouement did disturb my sleep and keep me awake, churning "Why?"s and "How could?"s and "What will happen now?"s through my overactive brain. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the book very much and only hope our faith-driven, penitential, overanalytical protagonist Sam will reappear in a subsequent offering, because I definitely warmed up to Sam, his baker-bookseller sister Dani, her seven-year-old son Parker, Sam's former wife (a Hospice nurse), and new pastor Rufus Ffaukes.
July 13, 2019
Preacher Sam is not your typical Christian/Religious fiction. It includes profanity (including “the F bomb”), it discusses sexual addiction and lustful thoughts frankly (and occasionally explicitly), there is no strategically placed “get saved” speech, and it falls into the mystery genre rather than historical romance.
Our protagonist is a disgraced, porn-addicted ex-pastor who is living with his atheist single-mom sister while trying to get his life and marriage back together. In the past he was instrumental in getting a murderer to confess. References to this abound, but the details remain so sketchy that it feels like we’ve missed out on book 1 of the series. When one of his former parishioners is jailed for murder and refuses to defend herself or speak to anyone but him or the victim’s husband, Sam must figure out what really happened.
Unfortunately, the story focuses far more on Sam whining and sulking about his life and family relationships than it does on the murder mystery. His pursuit of “what really happened?” proceeds in a desultory, mopey fashion, and the amazingly convenient item that finally helps him solve it is ill-explained and/or doesn’t quite make sense. Add a shoehorned-in romantic subplot for his sister, some preachy bits, and a final line that undercuts any apparent character growth, and this really didn’t work for me.
Our protagonist is a disgraced, porn-addicted ex-pastor who is living with his atheist single-mom sister while trying to get his life and marriage back together. In the past he was instrumental in getting a murderer to confess. References to this abound, but the details remain so sketchy that it feels like we’ve missed out on book 1 of the series. When one of his former parishioners is jailed for murder and refuses to defend herself or speak to anyone but him or the victim’s husband, Sam must figure out what really happened.
Unfortunately, the story focuses far more on Sam whining and sulking about his life and family relationships than it does on the murder mystery. His pursuit of “what really happened?” proceeds in a desultory, mopey fashion, and the amazingly convenient item that finally helps him solve it is ill-explained and/or doesn’t quite make sense. Add a shoehorned-in romantic subplot for his sister, some preachy bits, and a final line that undercuts any apparent character growth, and this really didn’t work for me.
August 22, 2019
Cassondra Windwalker’s Preacher Sam is a psychological thriller that delves into the degradation of mankind when murder, lies, and secrets take over the small town of Broadripple, Indiana. The complex story sucks you in immediately as Amanda is arrested for murdering her best friend and business partner, Amy. Amanda shuts down and refuses to speak to anyone except Amy’s husband, Clay, and her former preacher, Sam Geisler. This only adds fuel to the speculation as to what happened to cause someone to murder sweet Amy and the reason behind it all is quite disturbing.
While a slow build to the surprising climax, the author takes the reader on a journey of reflection and growth with disgraced preacher Sam Geisler as he attempts to find redemption from his sins in the eyes of the church as well as his own. Having left the church after admitting to having a porn addiction, Sam is estranged from his wife and living in the spare room above his sister’s book café. The murder plot almost takes a back seat Sam’s personal trials.
Preacher Sam is the first book I have read by Cassondra Windwalker. I enjoy the depth and the rawness of her characters. She bares all their sins but doesn’t judge. The secondary character, Dani, Sam’s sister, is actually my favorite. She adds levity to the serious nature of the story. Dani is feisty and mouthy and I love it! I look forward to reading future books in this series.
While a slow build to the surprising climax, the author takes the reader on a journey of reflection and growth with disgraced preacher Sam Geisler as he attempts to find redemption from his sins in the eyes of the church as well as his own. Having left the church after admitting to having a porn addiction, Sam is estranged from his wife and living in the spare room above his sister’s book café. The murder plot almost takes a back seat Sam’s personal trials.
Preacher Sam is the first book I have read by Cassondra Windwalker. I enjoy the depth and the rawness of her characters. She bares all their sins but doesn’t judge. The secondary character, Dani, Sam’s sister, is actually my favorite. She adds levity to the serious nature of the story. Dani is feisty and mouthy and I love it! I look forward to reading future books in this series.
August 16, 2019
Preacher Sam was my first time reading Cassondra Windwalker’s work and I know it won’t be my last. I was surprised by how quickly this story sucked me in. I get a bit squirrely in religious conversations and yet Preacher Sam made the topic more palatable. A quick, engaging (almost cozy) mystery, Preacher Sam is among my top mystery reads of 2019. I was just as invested in the mystery as I was in Sam’s life.
I wish there had been a bit more character growth for Sam as his waffling was a tad repetitive and I feel like Sam’s detective moments could have happened a bit quicker. Even with my critiques, I was still engaged in the family dynamics and non-murder story arcs all the same.
By far, my favorite part of Preacher Sam is the wealth of vibrant side characters, each with their own voice. The new preacher was my favorite followed closely by Tom, Sam’s friend. I also was fond of Detective Nguyen even though he played a tiny role. Preacher Sam was an engaging novel that proved to be so much more than just your average murder mystery.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I wish there had been a bit more character growth for Sam as his waffling was a tad repetitive and I feel like Sam’s detective moments could have happened a bit quicker. Even with my critiques, I was still engaged in the family dynamics and non-murder story arcs all the same.
By far, my favorite part of Preacher Sam is the wealth of vibrant side characters, each with their own voice. The new preacher was my favorite followed closely by Tom, Sam’s friend. I also was fond of Detective Nguyen even though he played a tiny role. Preacher Sam was an engaging novel that proved to be so much more than just your average murder mystery.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 9, 2020
Let me start out by saying that I really enjoyed “Preacher Sam (Sam Geisler, Murder Whisperer)”, by Cassondra Windwalker. I’ve become a big fan of the British “cozy mysteries” on TV. What I like about these “cozy mysteries” are the quirky main characters and the colorful supporting characters.
Sam Geisler easily fits into this mold. Sam is an ex-minister. His struggles with his personal demons recently caused him to give up his ministry and his wife. His demons are much more serious to Geisler than to those close to him, including his ex-parishioners. He is called upon by his estranged wife and the minister who took over Sam’s flock to look into the murder of one of his ex-parishioners by her best friend, another ex-parishioner of Sam’s. Sam, in keeping with the cozy mysteries conventions, eventually solves the crime, in his idiosyncratic manner.
I found the book riveting. The story moved along quickly, with the requisite twists and turns. The characters of Sam, his sister Dani, and his estranged Melanie are well defined, multi-dimensional characters. I was torn between trying to rush through the book for the story and characters and reading more slowly to take in and appreciate Windwalker’s wonderful writing. I highlighted many truly memorable lines in the book.
Sam Geisler easily fits into this mold. Sam is an ex-minister. His struggles with his personal demons recently caused him to give up his ministry and his wife. His demons are much more serious to Geisler than to those close to him, including his ex-parishioners. He is called upon by his estranged wife and the minister who took over Sam’s flock to look into the murder of one of his ex-parishioners by her best friend, another ex-parishioner of Sam’s. Sam, in keeping with the cozy mysteries conventions, eventually solves the crime, in his idiosyncratic manner.
I found the book riveting. The story moved along quickly, with the requisite twists and turns. The characters of Sam, his sister Dani, and his estranged Melanie are well defined, multi-dimensional characters. I was torn between trying to rush through the book for the story and characters and reading more slowly to take in and appreciate Windwalker’s wonderful writing. I highlighted many truly memorable lines in the book.
January 17, 2020
I loved this one! I love a mystery (which the ending surprised me, which is not the easiest thing to do), and I loved Sam and Dani's relationship. This one was probably my favorite of Cassondra's books so far. I'm so glad that this is the beginning of a series because I am going to need more Sam and Dani on my life. Can't wait to see what comes next!
March 21, 2020
This is the first book I've read by Cassondra Windwalker and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters were well-developed, believable, and interesting. The plot kept me guessing and turning the pages. I absolutely loved the sibling relationship between Sam and his sister, Dani. I chuckled out loud a few times. The plot resolved well and all loose ends were tied up which I always appreciate. I will defintely be reading more by this author.
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