The Snipe's Screech - by Dean Clemons (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Two brothers, haunted by a violent past, embark on a journey to bury their late mother amidst a storm of community tensions, personal vendettas, and family secrets.

In The Snipe's Screech, Boyd and Taggert, the two protagonists navigate through the turmoil of their past and the complexities of their present. Boyd, a new herpetologist, and Tag, freshly released from Salem Penitentiary, are set on a mission to bury their estranged mother who they refer to as the Frog. The brothers' journey takes them through the changing landscapes of Coos Bay, Oregon, only to unearth turbulent memories and alarming revelations.

Their road trip is fraught with challenges, each encounter on their way - from a beautiful waitress named Jacqueline to a grizzled Chief Petty Officer - adding to the intricate tapestry of their lives. They are reminded of their older brother Myles, tragically murdered a decade earlier, and the dark secrets that still lurk in the corners of their hometown.

In the face of mounting tensions and rising hatred in their community, the brothers find allies in unexpected places. Doloose, the wise shaman, and Eva Sternwheeler, their former Child Protective Services worker turned cemetery director, prove to be pivotal in their quest. However, the ghosts of their past are never too far behind, as they encounter old acquaintances, Tiny and Jiffy, who once saved their lives.

As the boys arrive at their childhood home, they are met with surprising changes and an array of colorful characters, including their step-sister "Fat" and Auntie Maggie, the space lady. Amidst the chaos, they are tasked with blessing a newly carved Coos Canoe and ensuring Charlotte's final rites are conducted adequately, despite the stormy weather and lurking enemies. They are reintroduced to their childhood memories of Jesus.

The Snipe's Screech is a tale of resilience and redemption. It explores the brothers' struggle to overcome their traumatic past and their relentless pursuit of justice. As they unravel the mysteries of their past, they also embark on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. This gripping narrative promises to keep you on the edge of your seat, as you navigate through the brothers' tumultuous lives.