Candle Moth by R.J. Ellory

For those of you who liked The Shawshank Redemption you'll love this one. This 391-page book published in 2003 is a page-turner. Once you start reading it becomes so very hard to put down.

The first of Ellory's novels it takes place during the turmoil events of America in the 50s, 60s and 70s. Mind you this is not history in its boring detail more like conspiracy theories that would make for great dinner table conversation at that dull don't-know-anyone-here party. Try it and you won't be disappointed.

The plot revolves around two boys, one black (Nathan) and the other white (Daniel), who meet and bond over a baked ham sandwich in South Carolina. They are six years old and the story begins with Daniel accused of the brutal murder of Nathan and is in prison on Death Watch at the age of 37.

A novel about friendship, first love, Vietnam, murder, guilt, human nature and how the choices we make, however insignificant, may live to haunt us for eternity. Tissues at the ready for a very emotional finish.

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