43 pages • 1 hour read
When Crickets Cry: a Novel of the Heart
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Book Brief
336
Novel • Fiction
Georgia • Contemporary
2006
Adult
14+ years
Super Short Summary
When Crickets Cry by Charles Martin is a Christian fiction novel set in rural Georgia that follows Reese, a former heart surgeon hiding from his past, and Annie, a hopeful little girl with a failing heart. Their unexpected meeting intertwines their lives, bringing healing to Reese's past and hope to Annie's future within a narrative that explores themes of love, loss, hope, and regret.
Emotional
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Contemplative
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
74,593 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
When Crickets Cry by Charles Martin is praised for its heartfelt storytelling and richly developed characters. Readers appreciate the emotional depth and the blend of medical drama with personal recovery. However, some critics find the plot predictable and the pacing slow at times. Despite minor flaws, it's a touching narrative on love, loss, and redemption.
Who Should Read When Crickets Cry?
A reader who would enjoy When Crickets Cry by Charles Martin is likely drawn to poignant, emotionally resonant stories of redemption and healing. Fans of Nicholas Sparks' The Notebook or Mitch Albom's Tuesdays with Morrie will appreciate the novel's blend of heartfelt narrative, Southern charm, and inspirational message.
74,593 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Emma
Emma
Reese's deceased wife and childhood best friend, whose life was marked by her battle with a heart condition, and who shared a deep love with Reese.
Annie
Annie
A spirited seven-year-old girl with a hole in her heart, whose determination and resilience are central to her character as she raises money for her surgery.
Cindy
Cindy
Reese's developing love interest, who is Annie’s aunt and caretaker, working tirelessly to support Annie after the loss of her own sister and brother-in-law.
Charlie
Charlie
Emma's brother and Reese's brother-in-law, who, despite being blind, remains optimistic and serves as Reese's confidant and companion.
Davis
Davis
The enigmatic owner of The Well, a bar that functions as a church, known for his unconventional methods of guiding patrons towards redemption.
Termite (Termidus Cain)
Termite (Termidus Cain)
A troubled teenager seeking redemption, whose interactions with Reese and other characters highlight themes of renewal and change.
336
Novel • Fiction
Georgia • Contemporary
2006
Adult
14+ years
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